Friday in Turkey: Work Week and Holidays
In Turkey, Friday is a regular working day and not a weekly holiday. The country follows a standard Monday to Friday work week, similar to many Western nations. However, there are certain aspects related to Fridays, particularly in the context of religious practices, that are noteworthy.
Friday Prayers
- Jumu’ah (Friday Prayer): In Islamic tradition, Friday holds special significance as the day for congregational prayers, known as Jumu’ah. It’s a time when Muslims are encouraged to attend mosques for a special prayer service held early in the afternoon.
- Work Breaks for Prayers: In some areas and workplaces in Turkey, Muslims may take a break from work to attend these prayers. However, this does not equate to a public holiday, and businesses generally remain open.
Public Holidays in Turkey
- Official Holidays: Turkey’s public holidays are a mix of secular national days and religious festivals. The national holidays include Republic Day (October 29) and National Sovereignty and Children’s Day (April 23), among others.
- Religious Holidays: The two major Islamic holidays observed in Turkey are Eid al-Fitr (Ramazan Bayramı) and Eid al-Adha (Kurban Bayramı). The dates for these holidays change every year as they are based on the Islamic lunar calendar. These holidays are typically observed with several days off.
Work Culture
- Work Hours: Standard work hours in Turkey are similar to those in many Western countries, typically around 40 to 45 hours per week, from Monday to Friday.
- Regional Variations: There might be regional variations in work schedules, especially in more conservative or rural areas, where religious practices might have a more significant impact on daily life.
In summary, while Friday holds religious importance for Muslims, in Turkey, it is a regular working day within the typical Monday to Friday work week. The country’s approach to public holidays includes both secular national days and religious observances, reflecting the diverse and secular nature of the Turkish Republic.