Living in Doha Qatar

Public Holidays in Doha Qatar

There are two major religious celebrations in Qatar – Eid al Fitr and Eid al Adha, and these are also the major public holidays.

While Eid al Fitr is the end of fasting month of Ramadan, the Eid al Adha follows approximately 70 days after Eid al Fitr. Eid al Fitr happens to fall on the ninth month of Islamic calendar, which is based on the lunar months. Therefore, the dates are not fixed. The holidays are determined only a day in advance.

Eid al Fitr is a three-day celebration, with almost all businesses in the country shutting down, while Eid al Adha is marked by four-day celebration.

Muslims fast during the day and feast at night during the fasting period, and hence, the normal business patterns may be interrupted, with several restaurants being closed during the day. There may also be restriction on smoking or drinking during these periods.

The other fixed holidays in Qatar are National Day, and Independence Day.

Here's the list of public holidays for the year 2011.

August 31st – Eid al Fitr
September 3rd – Independence day
November 6th – Eid al Adha
December 18th – National Day