Companies urged to file before holiday break

IMPACT –MEDIUM

What is the change? Government offices will close for five days in early October in observance of Eid al-Adha.

What does the change mean? Processing of work permits and other services will be delayed.

• Implementation timeframe: Approximately Oct. 5-9, dates to be confirmed.
• Visas/permits affected: Allwork 
• Who is affected: Foreign nationals applying for work permits, extensions and other services.
• Impact on processing times: The holiday break will cause a one-week delay.
• Business impact: Companies and applicants shouldfactor the holiday period into business schedules and timelines.
• Next steps: Theprecise dates will be announced based on moon sightings on Sept. 24 or 25.

Background: Eid al-Adha, or “Feast of the Sacrifice,” is a Muslim holiday celebrating the end of the annual Hajj pilgrimage. The exact dates will not be confirmed until the lunar moon is observed on Sept. 24 or 25. The holiday, which falls on the 10th day of the lunar month, therefore is expected to start on Oct. 4 or 5.

The UAE observes a five-day national holiday, during which time government offices are closed. Private offices are also closed the first two days.

BAL Analysis: The dates are tentative, but companies should plan now to build an additional week into their timeframes and, where possible, submit filings before the holiday break.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in the United Arab Emirates. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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