Eid al Adha likely to fall on June 16; 9-day break expected

Astronomers from both the Sultanate of Oman and Saudi Arabia have predicted that Arafat Day is likely to fall on Saturday (June 15) making June 16 the first day of Eid al Adha this year.

This means that holidays in Oman are anticipated to begin on Sunday (June 16) and run till Thursday (June 20), giving citizens and residents a five-day break.

While a five-day break sounds good, there is hope for an even longer holiday as Friday (June 21) and Saturday (June 22) will be weekend making it a nine-day break running from pre-Eid weekly off on Friday (June 14) to Saturday (June 22).

The latest Eid al Adha 2024 date prediction was shared by Dr Khaled Zaaq, a Saudi researcher who is also in the Saudi moon sighting committee, in a video which is taking rounds on social media.

Speaking in an entertaining way through a video tweet, Dr Khaled said, "As per astronomical calculations, Friday (June 7) may be the first day of Dhul Hijjah and Saturday (June 15) the first day of Arafat, hence the first day of Eid is likely to fall on Sunday (June 16)."

His prediction was endorsed by Abdulwahab al Busaidy, head of the observatory at the Oman Astronomical Society, whose predictions in Oman have turned out to be correct during the past 30 years.

"Eid al Adha is always tricky because we tend to align with Haj season but as per my prediction, Arafat Day is likely to begin on Saturday (June 15) this year. This means that this year Eid al Adha holidays may begin on Sunday (June 16). These dates are based on astronomical calculations," Al Busaidy told the Observer.

According to religious beliefs, Eid al Adha honours Prophets Ibrahim and Ismail (peace be upon them) and their obedience to Allah, and brings with it another chance for all to spend time with loved ones while others use the holiday break for travel.

“Eid celebrations are important for us and hence deserve adequate preparations. I have finished all my Eid shopping and I am now considering ways of enjoying the anticipated long break. I just hope the authorities announce the holidays early so that we can plan ahead,” said Sabry Abdullah, an accountant based in Muscat.

Hassan al Naamani, a private sector employee, said he is currently considering flight options to Azerbaijan for short 5-day break or Kenya for safari if he gets a 9-day break. "I always wanted to go to Kenya and I hope this time I may make it."