What are the Public Holidays in Qatar (2024) ?
The vibrant Kingdom of Qatar has a rich diversity of occasions and festivals that show its vibrant culture. Celebration of the number of festivals in Qatar makes it important to understand their importance in the history of Qatar. These festivals provide an opportunity for residents of Qatar and foreigners travelling there to understand its culture and history. In this blog, we will dwell on the diverse tapestry of public holidays in Qatar. Read the full blog to deep dive into your understanding of Qatar festivals.
Here is the list of public holidays in Qatar in 2024:
| Date | Weekday | Holiday |
| 1 January, 24′ | Monday | New Year |
| 13 February, 24′ | Tuesday | National Sports Day |
| 9 – 12 April, 24′ | Monday – Friday | Eid Al Fitr |
| 16 – 20 June, 24′ | Sunday-Thursday | Eid Al Adha |
| 18 December , 24′ | Wednesday | National Day |
Here are the details of Qatar Public Holidays 2024:
New Year (January 1, 2024)
January 1 is observed as the New Year in Qatar and other countries as per the Gregorian calendar. Almost all businesses and corporations including Qatar Central Bank are inoperative on the occasion of New Year. The New Year celebration begins with fireworks, parties, gatherings etc on the last day of the previous year which is December 31. Moreover people also make New Year resolutions as per their goals to achieve. The traditional culture of making New Year resolutions started nearly 4000 years ago across the countries.
National Sports Day (February 13, 2024)
National Sports Day is celebrated on the second Tuesday of February every year. The major purpose of this event is to promote health and well-being among the individuals of Qatar. The culture of celebrating this event in Qatar began in 2012 after a decree was passed by HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Deputy Emir, and Heir Apparent. On the occasion of National Sports Day, several government authorities and private institutions organize various events to make people aware of the importance of sports in our daily lives. Moreover, this day is also a part of the Qatar National Vision 2030 initiative.
Eid-al-Fitr (April 9-12, 2024)
Eid-al-Fitr holds utmost importance in the Islamic calendar. The date of Eid-al-Fitr may vary in different countries as the date depends on the sighting of the moon. This festival marks the end of the entire month of fasting (Ramadan) for Muslims. That’s why it is also referred to as the “Festival of breaking the fast”. Muslims used to celebrate this festival with prayers being offered to the Almighty. These prayers are offered in mosques or open spaces where everyone gathers. Muslims also offer meals and money to needy people on the day of Eid-al-Fitr. The first Eid-al-Fitr was celebrated in 624 CE by the Prophet and his companions.
Eid-al-Adha (June 16-20, 2024)
Eid-al-Adha is known by different names- Eid-al-Adha, Hari Raya Haji, Bakra Eid, Feast of Sacrifice etc. This festival has the utmost importance for Muslims as it lasts for nearly four days. The history of Eid-al-Adha dates back to the willingness of the Prophet to sacrifice everything for God. The date may vary in different countries as it depends on the lunar cycle of the moon. During this festival, Muslims used to sacrifice a cow or an animal. One-third of the meal will be eaten, another one-third by family or friends and the rest goes to needy people. Giving charity to needy people is a key tradition of this festival.
National Day (December 18, 2024)
National Day is annually celebrated on December 18 every year. It is a national holiday in Qatar and most of the businesses and corporations remain inoperational. This day holds a major significance in the history of Qatar. On December 18, 1878 Mohammed bin Thani was succeeded by his son Jassim bin Mohammed Ali Thane as ruler. Several activities are organized on National Day including fireworks, music, and lights. Moreover, car shows are also organized in Qatar by various groups. Individuals in Qatar also decorate their houses with the national flag of Qatar and patriotic symbols.
Summing Up
So these are all the public holidays celebrated in Qatar. Most of the businesses and corporations are closed on these days to celebrate and mark their importance.
All the above-mentioned public holidays are applicable in Qatar. So if you are looking to plan your holidays and vacations with your near and dear ones you can use this calendar as a reference. Moreover, organizations and HR professionals can use the calendar to plan the holidays for their employees accordingly.
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* The above mentioned dates are preliminary and subject to change. We will modify them upon receiving updates.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
There are five public holidays in Qatar which include New Year, National Sports Day, Eid-al-Fitr, Eid-al-Adha, and National Day.
Friday and Saturday being off. However, most businesses are open on Friday, with just half a day on Thursday.
Eid is probably the most renowned religious event each year, seeing off the fasting period known as Ramadan.
Public holidays in Qatar are celebrated with parades, road shows, rituals and prayers offered to the Almighty.