Morocco's Banks To Enjoy Special Eid Al Adha Holiday on June 9
Rabat – The Moroccan Professional Banking Group (GPBM) has announced Monday, June 9, as an exceptional holiday for banks. The decision followed CGEM's appeal calling on the private sector to grant employees a day off on Monday in celebration of Eid Al Adha, which will fall on June 7 in Morocco.
'Each bank is responsible for informing its employees and clients of this decision,' the group said, noting that banking institutions will also take the necessary measures to ensure an adequate supply of banknotes and the continuous and smooth operation of ATMs.
The bank's statement comes just a day after the General Confederation of Moroccan Enterprises (CGEM) urged the private sector companies to grant employees a day off on June 9.
CGEM said the decision aligns with the public sector, after the government announced a special holiday on Monday for employees.
'We invite, as far as possible, private sector companies to also grant Monday, June 9, as a day off to their employees,' CGEM President Chakib Alj said.
Last month, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs confirmed that Eid Al Adha will be on June 7 this year.
The celebration, which commemorates Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God, falls on the tenth day of Dhu Al Hijjah- the twelfth and the last month in the Islamic calendar.
Eid Al Adha will look different in the North African country this year, as Moroccans will not perform the ritual sacrifice. In February, King Mohammed VI announced the cancellation of the sacrifice ritual, citing challenges like drought.
The monarch said the concern takes into account the economic and climate challenges Morocco is facing, which has led to a remarkable decline in livestock population.
'We invite you to celebrate Eid al Adha, God willing, in its usual spiritual form by attending the Eid prayer in misallas and mosques, giving alms, gathering with loved ones, and performing acts of devotion and piety – thanking God for his immense generosity and seeking reward and divine recompense,' the monarch said. Tags: Eid Al Adhaeid al adha cancelled
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