As Ramadan, the sacred month for Muslims, nears its conclusion, those residing in the United Arab Emirates are preparing for the approaching Eid al-Fitr festivity, which signifies the end of Ramadan.
UAE-based astronomer, Ibrahim al-Jarwan has announced that April 21, 2023, will mark the commencement of Eid al-Fitr, with arrangements in full swing.
Ramadan’s full moon will be on Thursday, April 20, 2023, at 8.36 a.m. local time, while the crescent of the moon of Shawwal will be born on Thursday, April 20, 2023 at 8.13 a.m., and will set 22 minutes after sunset,” chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Astronomy Society Ibrahim al-Jarwan was quoted as saying on local media source UAE Barq.
In the Emirates, the sacred month of Ramadan commenced on Thursday, March 23, and typically lasts for 29 or 30 days, based on the appearance of the moon. This year, astronomical projections suggest that Ramadan is expected to persist for 29 days.
The anticipated timeline for the Eid al-Fitr celebrations in the UAE is from April 20 to 23, regardless of the astronomical calculations for the lunar months. The specific dates will only be declared once the crescent moon is observed.
Musafir.com, an online travel agency, has reported that despite an expected airfare surge of 10 to 15 percent during the Eid holiday, approximately 65 percent of individuals are interested in international travel.
To ensure a cyber-worry-free trip, here are a few factors to keep in mind, especially since citizens and residents may use this time to travel out of the country:
- Utilise robust passwords: Using strong, unique passwords and multi-factor authentication can safeguard your accounts.
- Keep software updated: Before embarking on your travels, ensure that all your devices and apps have the latest security patches by updating them. Additionally, download software from reputable sources.
- Monitor app permissions: Give applications only the minimum permissions they need to carry out their intended functions.
- Create backups: Ensure that your crucial data is backed up on your devices.
- Be cautious on social media: Refrain from disclosing your travel dates and location on social media platforms, and avoid sharing your travel photos in real-time.
- Verify links and attachments: Exercise caution when accessing links and attachments in emails, social media sites or other sources. If uncertain, refrain from clicking.
- Disable Wi-Fi/Bluetooth connections: Disabling automatic connections to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth networks can prevent unauthorised access to your device by cybercriminals.
