Maldives Public Holidays
Maldives Public Holidays
Searching for the national holidays in Maldives? All public holidays in Maldives are treated like Sundays. This means that most of the Maldives employees have a day off and all schools are closed on these office holidays. If you are planning a trip to Maldives and want to know what the national and regional holidays are, check the details in the tables below.
New Year’s Day (January 1)
Description
New Year’s Day, celebrated on January 1st, marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year. It is one of the most widely observed public holidays in the Maldives. The day is celebrated with family gatherings, festive meals, and a sense of optimism for the year ahead. Many people use the day to reflect on the past year, set resolutions for the future, and enjoy time with loved ones.
In the Maldives, New Year’s Day is generally observed with quiet celebrations. While it is not marked by massive public gatherings or events, families and communities come together to celebrate, often attending special church services or hosting family meals. It is a day for rest and reflection, and many people take the opportunity to enjoy the serene beauty of the islands.
Duration
New Year’s Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of the Maldives.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close, though essential services remain operational.
Eid al-Fitr (Variable Date, May or June)
Description
Eid al-Fitr, also known as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” is one of the most significant religious holidays for Muslims in the Maldives. It marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. The date of Eid al-Fitr varies each year based on the Islamic lunar calendar, but it generally falls in May or June.
Eid al-Fitr is a day of joy and celebration for Muslims in the Maldives, with religious observances, feasts, and family gatherings. On this day, people begin with a special prayer at the mosque, followed by visits to friends and family members. Traditional meals, such as sweet dishes and meats, are prepared, and many people also engage in charitable acts, providing food and gifts to the less fortunate.
Duration
Eid al-Fitr is typically a one-day holiday, but the celebrations may extend for two or more days depending on family traditions and regional practices. Businesses, government offices, and schools are usually closed for the duration of the holiday.
Groups Affected
- General Public: Primarily Muslims.
- Government Employees: Given the days off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close, though essential services remain operational.
Independence Day (July 26)
Description
Independence Day in the Maldives is celebrated on July 26th, marking the day in 1965 when the Maldives gained full independence from the United Kingdom. The holiday is one of the most important national celebrations, reflecting on the country’s sovereignty and its journey toward self-governance.
The day is celebrated with national pride, and the celebrations typically include flag-raising ceremonies, official speeches, and public events. There are also cultural performances and exhibitions that highlight the nation’s heritage and achievements since independence. Independence Day is a time for the people of the Maldives to come together and celebrate their country’s independence and political progress.
Duration
Independence Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of the Maldives.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close, though essential services remain operational.
Eid al-Adha (Variable Date, July or August)
Description
Eid al-Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is another major Islamic holiday observed in the Maldives. The holiday honors the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son Ismail in obedience to God’s command. The date of Eid al-Adha depends on the Islamic lunar calendar but typically falls in July or August.
Eid al-Adha is marked by communal prayers, animal sacrifices (usually goats, cows, or sheep), and festive meals. The meat from the sacrificed animals is shared among family members, friends, and the less fortunate. The Maldives celebrates Eid al-Adha with special prayers at mosques, family visits, and community gatherings. The holiday also emphasizes charity and giving, with people donating to those in need.
Duration
Eid al-Adha is typically a two-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed during the celebration period.
Groups Affected
- General Public: Primarily Muslims.
- Government Employees: Given the days off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close, though essential services remain operational.
National Day (November 11)
Description
National Day in the Maldives is celebrated on November 11th, marking the day in 1968 when the Maldives became a republic after the abolishment of the Sultanate. The holiday is a moment of national pride and historical reflection, as it celebrates the transition to a republic and the country’s political evolution.
National Day is celebrated with various ceremonies, including speeches by the president and prime minister, military parades, and cultural performances that highlight the country’s traditions and achievements. The day is a time for the people of the Maldives to reflect on the nation’s progress and to celebrate their national identity.
Duration
National Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of the Maldives.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close, though essential services remain operational.
Christmas Day (December 25)
Description
Christmas Day, celebrated on December 25th, marks the birth of Jesus Christ and is observed by Christians in the Maldives. Although the Muslim population in the Maldives is the majority, Christmas is recognized by the small Christian community, and many people in the country take part in the celebrations.
In the Maldives, Christmas is primarily marked by church services, where Christians gather to commemorate the birth of Jesus. The holiday also involves family gatherings, gift exchanges, and special meals. While Christmas celebrations are less widespread than in predominantly Christian countries, some public events and decorations are organized in the capital, Male, and in other areas where Christian expatriates reside.
Duration
Christmas Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: Primarily Christians, but also observed by some non-Christians.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Table: Overview of Public Holidays in Maldives
| Public Holiday | Date | Duration | Groups Affected |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | 1 day | General Public, Government Employees |
| Eid al-Fitr | Variable (May/June) | 1-2 days | Muslims |
| Independence Day | July 26 | 1 day | General Public |
| Eid al-Adha | Variable (July/August) | 2 days | Muslims |
| National Day | November 11 | 1 day | General Public |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | 1 day | General Public (Christians) |
