2024 Public Holidays in Maldives

Public Holidays in Maldives in 2024

The Maldives, a tropical paradise in the Indian Ocean, celebrates a number of public holidays throughout the year, each with its own cultural, religious, and historical significance. These holidays provide opportunities for celebration, reflection, and community gatherings, with many businesses, government offices, and schools closed to observe these special occasions. Below is a comprehensive list and description of the public holidays in the Maldives for the year 2024.

Islamic New Year – Date Varies (Islamic Calendar)

Islamic New Year, also known as Hijri New Year or Maal Hijrah, marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar year. It is a time for spiritual reflection, renewal of faith, and resolutions for the year ahead. In the Maldives, Islamic New Year is observed with prayers, religious gatherings, and cultural traditions.

National Day – November 11th

National Day commemorates the victory of Muhammad Thakurufaanu over Portuguese invaders in 1573. Muhammad Thakurufaanu is celebrated as a national hero for his role in liberating the Maldives from foreign occupation. National Day is observed with patriotic ceremonies, parades, cultural performances, and flag hoisting ceremonies across the islands.

Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday – Date Varies (Islamic Calendar)

Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday, also known as Mawlid al-Nabi, celebrates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad, the founder of Islam. It is observed by Muslims with prayers, religious lectures, and gatherings to reflect on the life and teachings of the Prophet. In the Maldives, Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday is a time for spiritual reflection and communal celebrations among the Muslim community.

Victory Day – November 3rd

Victory Day commemorates the victory of the Maldivian security forces over a coup attempt in 1988. The attempted coup, led by a group of Maldivian and Tamil mercenaries, was repelled with the assistance of Indian military forces. Victory Day is observed with ceremonies, speeches, and events honoring the bravery and sacrifices of the defenders of the Maldives.

Independence Day – July 26th

Independence Day celebrates the Maldives’ independence from British colonial rule in 1965. It is a time for patriotic fervor, with flag hoisting ceremonies, cultural performances, parades, and fireworks displays held across the country. Independence Day evokes a sense of pride and national unity among Maldivians, reaffirming their sovereignty and freedom.

Eid al-Fitr – Date Varies (Islamic Calendar)

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 celebrated with prayers, feasting, gift-giving, and acts of charity. In the Maldives, Muslims observe Eid al-Fitr with special prayers at mosques, family gatherings, and elaborate meals shared with loved ones.

Eid al-Adha – Date Varies (Islamic Calendar)

Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. It is celebrated with prayers, the sacrifice of animals (usually sheep or goats), distribution of meat to the needy, and gatherings with family and friends. Eid al-Adha is a time for reflection, gratitude, and solidarity within the Muslim community.

Republic Day – November 11th

Republic Day marks the establishment of the Republic of Maldives in 1968, following the abolition of the monarchy. It is a time to celebrate the country’s republican form of government and its achievements. Republic Day is observed with flag hoisting ceremonies, cultural events, and speeches highlighting the importance of democracy and national unity.

Note:

Islamic holidays such as Islamic New Year, Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday, Eid al-Fitr, and Eid al-Adha are based on the Islamic lunar calendar and their exact dates may vary depending on lunar sightings.

Conclusion

The Maldives celebrates a variety of public holidays throughout the year, each highlighting different aspects of the nation’s culture, history, and religious traditions. These holidays serve as important occasions for Maldivians to come together, celebrate their identity, and honor their heritage. Whether commemorating independence, religious festivals, or national heroes, public holidays in the Maldives play a significant role in fostering unity, pride, and a sense of belonging among its people.