Oman Announces Islamic New Year Holiday

The Sultanate of Oman has declared a public holiday to mark the Hijri New Year. According to a statement from the Oman News Agency, Sunday, July 7, 2024, will be a holiday for both the public and private sectors.

“Sunday, July 7, is an official holiday for the public and private sectors on the occasion of the anniversary of the noble Prophet’s (PBUH) migration. May prayers and peace be upon him, and may the advent of the new Hijri year 1446 AH bring blessings.”

For public sector employees, this will result in a three-day break, as Friday is the weekend in Oman. Private sector employees working a five-day week will also benefit, turning the Hijri New Year into a long weekend if Saturday is included as a non-working day.

Oman’s Ministry of Labour notes that employers may require employees to work on the holiday if necessary due to the nature of their work. In such cases, employees must be compensated for working on the holiday.