Preparations underway as Eid holidays announced

Our Correspondent

Eid al Fitr is likely to fall on May 13 in most Muslim countries and the next day in a few others according to the International Astronomical Centre.

In countries that began the Holy Month of Ramadan on April 14, the moon sighting will take place on May 12. If Ramadan lasts 30 days – which it will as per astronomical calculations – UAE residents will get a five-day break. The days off would be Ramadan 29 and 30; and Shawwal 1, 2 and 3 (May 11 to 15).

The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources has announced that the Eid al-Fitr holiday for public and private sector in the UAE will begin on May 11 and last until 3rd Shawwal 1442 H, which is yet to be declared.

Also read:  UAE offers Sinopharm booster dose to the vaccinated

Various emirates have issued safety advisories for worshippers and residents. In Abu Dhabi, from the first day of Eid, Yas Island will livestream vibrant fireworks at 9 pm on three nights. It can be viewed on the Yas Island Instagram channel. Gatherings are prohibited as part of the island’s COVID-19 precautionary measures.

The Dubai Police has launched an awareness campaign titled “Celebrate Safely” aimed at raising awareness about the hazards of fireworks. Under Article 54, any person trading in, importing, exporting, or manufacturing fireworks or getting them into or out of the country without a license, shall be imprisoned for not less than one year and be fined not less than AED 100,000 or either of the said punishments.

Also read:  Scam victims seek Indian Consulate’s help to nab conman

In Sharjah, which has got 590 new mosques in two years according to the Sharjah Department of Statistics and Community Development, Muslims will be allowed to offer special Ramadan prayers only in the mosque campus. This was announced by the Sharjah Police.

Also read:  Nearly 2000 COVID-19 patients benefit from stem cell therapy

Special patrols will be deployed to ensure that worshippers don’t offer the Taraweeh or Tahajjud prayers on the street or at roundabouts. Extra security patrols will be deployed on the 27th and 29th of the holy month of Ramadan to prevent gatherings, ensure smooth traffic and adherence to all COVID safety measures. These two holy nights typically see a huge rush at mosques, with worshippers spilling out to the streets.

Inspection teams would also monitor compliance with precautionary measures such as wearing of masks, social distancing and other precautionary measures.