The Government has confirmed that the upcoming Eid-ul-Adha holidays will be limited to the official dates in the national calendar, despite public calls for an extended break.

This follows speculation that the Government would declare additional public holidays from June 1-3, potentially creating a nine-day holiday period. However, the Administration has opted not to extend the break, citing concerns over administrative efficiency and national productivity.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu addressed the matter in the latest episode of the Rayyithunnaa Eku podcast, noting that past administrations had occasionally closed Government offices for one or two extra days to accommodate public convenience. Nonetheless, the President emphasised that declaring three additional public holidays would not align with the Government’s current priorities.

The decision underscores the Administration’s focus on maintaining uninterrupted Government services. Officials also highlighted the importance of adhering to the pre-scheduled holiday calendar to ensure consistency across public institutions.

While the move has disappointed segments of the public hoping for a longer break, the Government maintains that responsible governance requires careful consideration of the broader impact of extended closures.

Eid-ul-Adha remains a key religious observance in the Maldives, and the public holidays will be observed as planned.