Sunday Holiday

This is such a momentous decision for the UAE and for us expats hailing from countries with a Sunday holiday. From Jan 1, 2022, our adopted land will have a half day on Friday, instead of the full day holiday equivalent to Sunday in other countries, followed by two-day holiday on Saturday and Sunday for gov sectors. It is not clear what weekend policy and working hours will apply for the pvt sector especially those that had only Friday holiday - will they get their big day off on Saturday or Sunday?

With this new policy change, the UAE makes another record - the shortest work week of four and half days but with an 8-hour working day on those days.

After shifting here, I initially find it tough to adapt to the Friday church service. I consoled myself that Jesus died on a Friday and hence it should be holier than the Resurrection day. Though the church introduced Sunday early morning Mass, most people rushing to office on the first day of the week here skip it except the very zealous.

The worst part was forgetting that it was Sunday in India or when folks back home asked what kids are doing in school on a Sunday. As kids, we didnt open books at least till Sunday afternoon.

In the first year that V was here and we were in India, I have had to cut calls on the mobile that came during a church service. He forgot it was holy day there and I forgot to put my phone on silent mode.

As we prepare to sync with the rest of the non-Arab world for trade and better work-life balance, I cant help feel a sense of excitement and happiness.