When is Day of Arafah?
In 2026, Day of Arafah falls on Tuesday, May 26, 2026. It is classified here as a Omani public holiday.
History of Day of Arafah
The Day of Arafah falls on 9 Dhu al-Hijjah during the Hajj pilgrimage. For pilgrims, standing at Arafat near Mecca is a central rite of Hajj; for Muslims in Oman and elsewhere, it is a day of prayer, reflection and preparation for Eid al-Adha. Oman’s official holiday begins here rather than waiting for the Eid morning.
The date is religiously significant but its civil-day position changes every year. Its Gregorian date moves with the Hijri lunar calendar. The date shown here is a planning calculation only: Oman’s annual official notice—and, for the two Eids, the moon-sighting announcement—takes priority for leave, travel and closures.
In 2026, Oman’s operative Eid al-Adha closure began on Tuesday, May 26, the Day of Arafah, and continued through Friday, May 29. A Ministry of Health circular for private pharmacies records those dates while arranging duty coverage, demonstrating both the public/private reach of the holiday and the continuing operation of essential health services. Arafah retains its own devotional identity even though it also opens the statutory four-day leave period.
How Day of Arafah is observed
A paid public and private-sector holiday on 9 Dhu al-Hijjah; necessary services may operate with compensation under applicable rules.
Traditions of Day of Arafah
Prayer and reflection
Omani Muslims mark the Day of Arafah through prayer, Qur'an recitation, religious learning and reflection shaped by family and local mosque practice.
Hospitality and family visits
Omani coffee, dates, shared meals, greetings and visits with older relatives and neighbours give the public break its social character.
Giving and community care
Charitable gifts, food sharing and practical attention to people who need support express the occasion’s religious and social values.
Dates and observance rules are checked against the official Omani official and legal guidance. Lunar dates and annual Royal, public-sector or employer schedules should be confirmed against official notices.
History sources: Oman News Agency: Royal Decree No. 88/2022 on official holidays, Oman News Agency: Royal Decree No. 15/2025 on National Day dates, Gov.om: important dates and holidays, Oman Ministry of Labour: Labour Law, Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs: Royal Decree No. 15/2025, Oman Ministry of Health: 2026 Eid al-Adha closure and pharmacy duty circular.
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