Staff and pupils at private schools in Sharjah will enjoy a longer weekend than most of the UAE after Thursday was announced as a holiday in the emirate to mark the Prophet Mohammed's birthday.
Friday was announced as a public and private holiday across the country to mark the occasion, however the three-day weekend has been in place in Sharjah for almost two years.
Hence Sharjah Private Education Authority confirmed that all private schools in the emirate will remain closed on Thursday.
Public schools, however, which are overseen by Emirates Schools Establishment, will operate as usual in Sharjah on Thursday, in line with the rest of the schools in other parts of the country.
Families rejoice at extra time off
Yara Mahmoud, 40, whose son Jad Thaer is a grade 1 pupil at Sharjah's International School of Chouiefat, said the extra day off was a wonderful opportunity for children to connect with their religious roots and teachings.
“It’s not just about having a day off, it's about understanding the significance of the day,” she said.
Tala Salim, from Jordan, is in grade 7 at Rosary Private School. She said it will mean more play time for her.
“It's amazing because usually my mom takes up most of my regular three-day weekend to revise my studies and homework,” she said.
Her mother Jumana Yousif, 36, said that between helping her son and daughter with their studies, she barely gets a moment to relax.
“This extra day allows me to catch my breath and spend more fun time with my family,” she said.
“It's also an opportunity to educate our children about the significance of this special day, because it's crucial for them to understand and appreciate the values and teachings that come with it.”
Khalid Mohammed, from Egypt, whose daughter is in grade 5 at Sharjah's International School of Chouiefat, emphasised the benefit of longer family time.
“This extra day provides a valuable break for us as a family to spend quality time together,” he said.
Long weekend ahead
Private sector employees in the UAE were given a three-day weekend to mark the birthday of the Prophet Mohammed.
The announcement was made by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation on X, formerly known as Twitter, last week.
“The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has announced that Friday, 29 September, 2023 (14 Rabi Al Awwal 1445H) is a paid public holiday for private sector employees to mark the birthday of the Prophet Mohammed (peace be upon him),” the message said.
“On this auspicious occasion, we extend our heartfelt greetings to the UAE leadership, citizens and residents.”
Earlier, the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources confirmed public sector workers would be granted a public holiday on the same day.
The holiday is marked by observance rather than celebration, with festivities kept to a minimum.
The public and private sectors in the Emirates typically have the same holidays.
What can victims do?
Always use only regulated platforms
Stop all transactions and communication on suspicion
Save all evidence (screenshots, chat logs, transaction IDs)
Report to local authorities
Warn others to prevent further harm
Courtesy: Crystal Intelligence
The specs
Engine: 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbocharged and three electric motors
Power: Combined output 920hp
Torque: 730Nm at 4,000-7,000rpm
Transmission: 8-speed dual-clutch automatic
Fuel consumption: 11.2L/100km
On sale: Now, deliveries expected later in 2025
Price: expected to start at Dh1,432,000
Result
Crystal Palace 0 Manchester City 2
Man City: Jesus (39), David Silva (41)
How to apply for a drone permit
- Individuals must register on UAE Drone app or website using their UAE Pass
- Add all their personal details, including name, nationality, passport number, Emiratis ID, email and phone number
- Upload the training certificate from a centre accredited by the GCAA
- Submit their request
What are the regulations?
- Fly it within visual line of sight
- Never over populated areas
- Ensure maximum flying height of 400 feet (122 metres) above ground level is not crossed
- Users must avoid flying over restricted areas listed on the UAE Drone app
- Only fly the drone during the day, and never at night
- Should have a live feed of the drone flight
- Drones must weigh 5 kg or less
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Engine: 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbo
Power: 398hp from 5,250rpm
Torque: 580Nm at 1,900-4,800rpm
Transmission: Eight-speed auto
Fuel economy, combined: 6.5L/100km
On sale: December
Price: From Dh330,000 (estimate)
Details
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- Join parent networks
- Look beyond school fees
- Keep an open mind
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Trans fat is typically found in fried and baked goods, but you may be consuming more than you think.
Powdered coffee creamer, microwave popcorn and virtually anything processed with a crust is likely to contain it, as this guide from Mayo Clinic outlines:
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THE BIO
Bio Box
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A foster couple or family must:
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