The Advisory Council of the interim government of Bangladesh has officially approved a 10-day public holiday for Eid-ul-Azha, marking a significant decision made during a cabinet meeting on May 6, 2025. This extended holiday period, which aims to accommodate the festive celebrations, is set to run from June 5 to June 12, 2025, subject to the sighting of the moon.
Shafiqul Alam, the press secretary to the chief advisor, announced the decision on his verified Facebook page, stating, "There will be 10-day Eid al Adha holidays, according to a Cabinet decision. Offices will be open on Saturdays on May 17 and May 24." This announcement comes as a relief to many citizens, providing ample time for families to gather and celebrate the important holiday.
Traditionally, Eid-ul-Azha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is celebrated on the 10th day of Dhu Al Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic calendar. In 2025, the holiday is expected to fall on June 7, with the preceding day, June 6, also being a Friday, creating a long weekend for many workers. The holiday period has been structured to include two additional days, June 11 and 12, which were added to the original Eid holidays from May 5 to 10, thus stretching the break to 10 days.
While government offices will adhere to this extended holiday, it is important to note that the same does not apply to banks or other private workplaces. The decision to keep government offices open on two Saturdays in May, specifically May 17 and May 24, is aimed at balancing the extended holiday with the operational needs of various sectors.
The approval of the 10-day holiday coincides with another significant development; the cabinet also approved the draft of the Cyber Protection Ordinance 2025 during the same meeting. This ordinance aims to enhance cybersecurity measures across the nation, reflecting the government's commitment to safeguarding digital spaces amid increasing cyber threats.
As the Eid celebrations approach, many are eagerly preparing for the festivities, which often include family gatherings, prayers, and the ritual sacrifice of animals, a practice that symbolizes devotion and charity. The extended holiday will allow families to enjoy quality time together, participate in community events, and engage in charitable acts, which are central to the spirit of Eid.
In the broader context of public holidays in the region, the United Arab Emirates is also gearing up for its own Eid celebrations. Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha will provide UAE residents with a four-day holiday in June. The exact start date of these holidays is determined by the Islamic Hijri calendar, which relies on lunar cycles, making it essential for communities to observe the moon sighting closely.
In the UAE, the Eid break begins on Dhu Al Hijjah 9, coinciding with Arafat Day, and extends through Dhu Al Hijjah 10, 11, and 12. Depending on the lunar observations, the Eid break could begin as early as June 5 or as late as June 6, with the holiday wrapping up on June 9. This variability adds a layer of anticipation for residents as they await confirmation of the dates.
Public holidays like Eid Al Adha shift annually due to their dependence on the lunar calendar, which comprises months that can be either 29 or 30 days long. As the Islamic calendar is distinct from the Gregorian calendar, which is widely used globally, the dates for Eid and other Islamic holidays are not fixed and can change from year to year.
For many in both Bangladesh and the UAE, the Eid holidays represent a time of joy and reflection, where the focus is placed on family, faith, and community. The upcoming holidays are expected to bring together families who may have been separated by distance or busy schedules, allowing for a much-needed reconnection.
As the holiday season approaches, both countries are preparing for the influx of travel and gatherings, with many citizens expressing excitement over the extended breaks. The government’s decision to extend the holidays in Bangladesh is particularly welcomed during these challenging times, as it provides an opportunity for relaxation and celebration amidst the ongoing socio-economic challenges faced by many.
Ultimately, the announcement of the 10-day Eid-ul-Azha holiday in Bangladesh and the upcoming celebrations in the UAE highlight the importance of cultural traditions and communal bonds. As families prepare to gather and celebrate, the spirit of Eid continues to resonate across borders, reinforcing the shared values of faith, sacrifice, and togetherness.
