The UAE Cabinet announced at the start of 2026 that there will be at least 12 public holidays across the year, though exact dates may shift slightly depending on official moon sightings. For residents and visitors planning their vacations, understanding these holidays is essential for work schedules, travel, and leisure plans.
After celebrating New Year’s Day on Thursday, January 1, 2026, many may be wondering: what’s the next public holiday in the UAE?
Next UAE Public Holiday: Eid Al Fitr 2026
The first major holiday after New Year’s is Eid Al Fitr, one of the most widely anticipated public holidays in the UAE. Eid Al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting observed by Muslims worldwide. It is celebrated with family gatherings, feasts, and communal prayers.
Eid Al Fitr is an official public holiday in the UAE, typically spanning Ramadan 30 to Shawwal 3 in the Islamic Hijri calendar. Based on current astronomical predictions, Eid Al Fitr is expected to begin on Friday, March 20, 2026.
This means residents can anticipate a three-day long weekend, including Friday, March 20, Saturday, March 21, and Sunday, March 22, marking the first three days of Shawwal. These dates allow both public and private sector employees to enjoy a brief break and participate in Eid celebrations with family and friends.
Full List of Predicted UAE Public Holidays 2026
While some holidays may shift slightly due to moon sightings, here are the predicted public holidays for 2026:
- New Year’s Day: Thursday, January 1
- Eid Al Fitr: Friday, March 20 – Sunday, March 22
- Arafat Day: Tuesday, May 26
- Eid Al Adha: Wednesday, May 27 – Friday, May 29
- Islamic New Year: Monday, June 15 (official day to fall on Tuesday, June 16; adjusted to start of the week)
- The Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (PBUH): Monday, August 24 (official day to fall on Tuesday, August 25; adjusted to start of the week)
- National Day: Wednesday, December 2 and Thursday, December 3
These holidays apply to both public and private sectors, though the exact observance may vary slightly based on employer policies or sector-specific regulations.
Understanding UAE Public Holiday Laws
The UAE has clear rules for how public holidays are managed, particularly if a holiday falls on a weekend. According to the law updated in 2025, if a public holiday occurs on a Friday or Saturday (the UAE weekend), the day off may be shifted to the nearest weekday to ensure employees still enjoy the official day off.
For employees in the private sector, planning around these holidays is essential, especially for businesses operating across multiple Emirates or serving customers during holiday periods. Public holidays also impact school schedules, government offices, and public transport services, which may operate on adjusted timings.
Why Eid Al Fitr Is Significant
Eid Al Fitr is more than just a day off work; it represents a time for family, spiritual reflection, and community gatherings. Residents and visitors alike often participate in communal prayers at mosques, share festive meals, and give Zakat al-Fitr, a charitable contribution to support those in need.
The holiday also marks the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting from dawn to dusk. During Ramadan, Muslims abstain from food, drink, and certain habits, focusing on prayer, self-discipline, and acts of kindness. Eid is a joyous conclusion to this month of devotion and reflection.
Planning Around UAE Public Holidays
With multiple holidays spread throughout the year, residents and tourists can use this calendar to plan travel, leisure, and family activities. Many hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues in Dubai offer special packages or events during holidays such as Eid Al Fitr, Eid Al Adha, and National Day, making them ideal times for leisure and tourism.
- Travel Planning: Avoid peak travel congestion during Eid holidays.
- Restaurant Bookings: Popular hotels and eateries often require reservations well in advance.
- Cultural Experiences: Public holidays offer a chance to engage in local traditions, festivals, and events.
Upcoming Holidays to Watch
After Eid Al Fitr, the UAE calendar includes Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha, predicted to fall on Tuesday, May 26, and Wednesday, May 27 – Friday, May 29, respectively. These Islamic holidays are important both religiously and culturally, providing opportunities for family gatherings and spiritual observances.
Later in the year, Islamic New Year and The Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (PBUH) are observed, followed by the highly celebrated National Day on December 2–3, commemorating the founding of the UAE.
How Residents Can Stay Updated
While these dates are predicted, it’s essential to stay informed of official announcements from the UAE government, as some holidays are confirmed based on moon sightings. Official sources and news outlets typically provide updates a few days before the start of Ramadan, Eid, or other Islamic holidays.
For planning purposes, marking these dates on a personal or work calendar ensures that both employees and employers can organize workloads, leave, and travel effectively.
Key Takeaways
- The UAE has at least 12 public holidays in 2026, with dates subject to moon sightings.
- Eid Al Fitr is the next major public holiday, expected to begin on March 20, 2026, creating a three-day long weekend.
- Other notable holidays include Arafat Day, Eid Al Adha, Islamic New Year, The Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday, and National Day.
- Public holidays may shift if they fall on weekends, according to UAE law.
- Planning ahead helps residents and tourists make the most of holidays, from travel and family gatherings to cultural and festive activities.
By keeping this calendar in mind, everyone in the UAE can prepare for a year full of holidays, celebrations, and meaningful cultural experiences.
FAQs
The next UAE public holiday in 2026 is Eid Al Fitr, expected to start on Friday, March 20 and last three days.
There will be at least 12 public holidays in 2026, though exact dates depend on official moon sightings
Key holidays include New Year’s Day, Eid Al Fitr, Arafat Day, Eid Al Adha, Islamic New Year, Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday, and National Day.
Yes. According to UAE law, holidays falling on Friday or Saturday may be shifted to the nearest weekday to ensure a day off.
Plan ahead for travel, leisure, and work schedules by marking predicted holidays on your calendar and checking official announcements for confirmation.
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