Yemen Public Holidays

Yemen Public Holidays

Searching for the national holidays in Yemen? All public holidays in Yemen are treated like Sundays. This means that most of the Yemen employees have a day off and all schools are closed on these office holidays. If you are planning a trip to Yemen and want to know what the national and regional holidays are, check the details in the tables below.

Yemen, a country located on the southern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, celebrates a range of public holidays rooted in its rich Islamic heritage, historical milestones, and cultural traditions. The majority of these holidays are based on Islamic lunar calendars, which means their dates vary each year. Other holidays commemorate significant events in Yemen’s modern history, including its independence and unification.

Islamic Religious Holidays

Eid al-Fitr

According to vintagematters.net, Eid al-Fitr, also known as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. It is one of the most important holidays in the Islamic world and holds great significance in Yemen.

• Religious Significance: Eid al-Fitr celebrates the conclusion of Ramadan, a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection. Muslims believe that during Ramadan, the Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad. The holiday is a time for giving thanks to Allah for the strength and patience to complete the month of fasting.
• Observances in Yemen:
  • Morning Prayer: On the first day of Eid, Yemenis gather for a special morning prayer at mosques or in open prayer grounds. It is a communal act of worship, where people thank Allah for the blessings received during Ramadan.
  • Charitable Giving: A key aspect of Eid al-Fitr is the giving of “Zakat al-Fitr,” a form of charity that is obligatory for all Muslims. Yemenis often donate money, food, or other essential items to the less fortunate.
  • Family Celebrations: After prayers, Yemenis gather with family and friends to celebrate. Traditional foods, such as lamb dishes and sweets, are prepared, and gifts are exchanged among family members, particularly for children.
  • Social Visits: It is customary to visit the graves of deceased relatives to pray for them, as well as to visit neighbors and extended family members to strengthen social bonds.

Eid al-Adha

Eid al-Adha, or the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is another major Islamic holiday in Yemen, celebrated approximately two months after Eid al-Fitr. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to Allah.

• Religious Significance: Eid al-Adha coincides with the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, one of the five pillars of Islam. Muslims around the world, including Yemen, observe this holiday as a reminder of Prophet Ibrahim’s faith and sacrifice.
• Observances in Yemen:
  • Morning Prayers: Like Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha begins with communal prayers in mosques or large open areas.
  • Animal Sacrifice: One of the central rituals of Eid al-Adha is the sacrifice of an animal, usually a sheep, goat, or cow. The meat from the sacrifice is traditionally divided into three parts: one for the family, one for friends and neighbors, and one for the poor and needy.
  • Family and Community Gatherings: Eid al-Adha is marked by large feasts and gatherings with family and friends. Traditional Yemeni dishes such as “Mandi” (rice with lamb) and “Fahsa” (meat stew) are commonly prepared.
  • Charity: As part of the holiday’s spirit of giving, Yemenis ensure that the less fortunate are included in the celebrations by donating food and money.

Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year)

The Islamic New Year, known as the “Hijri New Year,” marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar. It commemorates the migration (Hijra) of Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, an event that holds significant historical importance in Islam.

• Religious Observance: While not as widely celebrated as Eid al-Fitr or Eid al-Adha, the Hijri New Year is a time of reflection for Yemenis. Mosques offer prayers, and sermons often focus on the significance of Prophet Muhammad’s journey and the lessons Muslims can draw from it.
• Quiet Celebrations: Unlike other holidays, there are no major public celebrations or feasts associated with the Islamic New Year. Yemenis may spend time with their families, attend religious lectures, and offer prayers for peace and prosperity in the coming year.

Mawlid al-Nabi (Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday)

Mawlid al-Nabi, the celebration of Prophet Muhammad’s birthday, is observed on the 12th day of Rabi’ al-Awwal, the third month of the Islamic calendar. The holiday is widely celebrated in Yemen, where many people honor the life and teachings of the Prophet.

• Religious Significance: Mawlid al-Nabi is a time for Muslims to remember the birth of the Prophet and reflect on his message of peace, compassion, and devotion to Allah. In Yemen, as in many Islamic countries, the holiday is an opportunity to celebrate the Prophet’s legacy.
• Observances in Yemen:
  • Mosque Gatherings: Special prayers and sermons are held in mosques across Yemen to honor the Prophet. Religious leaders share stories from his life, emphasizing his role as the last messenger of Islam.
  • Public Celebrations: In some parts of Yemen, Mawlid al-Nabi is celebrated with processions, songs, and poetry recitations that praise the Prophet. Communities come together to share food and distribute sweets.
  • Charity and Giving: As with other Islamic holidays, charity is an essential component of Mawlid al-Nabi. Yemenis often give to the poor and support local initiatives to help those in need.

National Holidays

Unification Day (May 22)

Unification Day celebrates the merger of North Yemen (the Yemen Arab Republic) and South Yemen (the People’s Democratic Republic of Yemen) into a single state, the Republic of Yemen, in 1990. This event marked a significant moment in modern Yemeni history, symbolizing the unification of two distinct political entities into one country.

• Historical Background: After decades of division and conflict between the northern and southern regions, efforts to unify the two Yemens culminated in the declaration of a unified state on May 22, 1990. Ali Abdullah Saleh became the first president of the newly unified Republic of Yemen.
• Celebrations:
  • Official Ceremonies: In major cities like Sana’a and Aden, government officials, military personnel, and citizens gather for official ceremonies, including speeches, parades, and flag-raising events.
  • Public Events: Yemenis celebrate Unification Day with fireworks, music, and public festivities. Cultural performances showcasing Yemeni music, dance, and poetry are organized to highlight the diverse traditions of the country’s northern and southern regions.
  • National Pride: The holiday is a time for Yemenis to express pride in their national identity, despite the ongoing political challenges the country faces.

Independence Day (November 30)

Independence Day marks the day in 1967 when South Yemen gained independence from British colonial rule. It is a significant national holiday, particularly in the southern regions of Yemen, where the struggle for independence is remembered with pride.

• Historical Context: South Yemen had been a British protectorate since the 19th century, with the port city of Aden serving as a major hub for British interests in the region. The independence movement, led by groups like the National Liberation Front (NLF), culminated in the withdrawal of British forces on November 30, 1967.
• Observances:
  • Official Celebrations: Independence Day is marked by speeches, parades, and military displays, particularly in the city of Aden. Government officials often use the occasion to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who fought for independence.
  • Cultural Events: Throughout the southern regions, cultural festivals are held to celebrate Yemeni heritage and history. Traditional music and dances, such as the “Bara’a” and “Sahban,” are performed, and historical reenactments of the independence struggle are staged.
  • Patriotic Spirit: Independence Day serves as a reminder of Yemen’s resilience in the face of foreign occupation and its ongoing quest for sovereignty and unity.

Cultural and Observance Days

International Workers’ Day (May 1)

International Workers’ Day, also known as Labor Day, is observed in Yemen as a public holiday to honor the contributions of workers and laborers. While it is not as widely celebrated as in some other countries, it provides an opportunity to reflect on workers’ rights and the importance of fair labor practices.

• Observances:
  • Official Speeches: In major cities, government and labor union representatives deliver speeches highlighting the role of workers in the nation’s economy and the need to improve labor conditions.
  • Public Events: Although celebrations are more subdued in comparison to other countries, workers in various industries may hold events to recognize their achievements and discuss labor-related issues.

Revolution Day (September 26)

Revolution Day commemorates the beginning of the North Yemeni Revolution in 1962, which eventually led to the establishment of the Yemen Arab Republic. The revolution ended centuries of rule by the Zaidi Imamate in North Yemen.

• Historical Importance: On September 26, 1962, revolutionary forces, inspired by the Arab nationalist movements sweeping the Middle East, launched a coup against the ruling Imam. The revolution ultimately led to the abolition of the monarchy and the formation of a republic in the north.
• Celebrations:
  • Military Parades: Revolution Day is marked by large military parades in cities like Sana’a, where the government showcases its military strength and pays tribute to the revolutionaries who fought for the republic.
  • Public Speeches: Political leaders and officials deliver speeches that reflect on the significance of the revolution and its impact on modern Yemen. These speeches often emphasize national unity and progress.
  • Fireworks and Festivities: In addition to official ceremonies, fireworks displays and cultural performances are held in public squares, with citizens gathering to celebrate Yemeni independence and resilience.

Other Notable Observances

Martyrs’ Day (December 18)

Martyrs’ Day honors those who have sacrificed their lives for Yemen in various struggles, particularly during the wars for independence and unification, as well as in ongoing conflicts. It is a day of reflection and remembrance, particularly for families who have lost loved ones in the pursuit of Yemen’s sovereignty.

• Observances:
  • Memorial Services: Throughout Yemen, memorial services and prayers are held to honor the martyrs. Families visit the graves of their loved ones, often placing flowers and reciting prayers for their souls.
  • Public Speeches: Government officials and military leaders give speeches to recognize the bravery and sacrifice of Yemen’s martyrs, emphasizing their role in defending the nation and its values.
  • Acts of Remembrance: In some areas, public monuments dedicated to the martyrs are adorned with wreaths and flags, serving as a symbol of national gratitude.