UAE public holidays in 2026 offer residents and visitors several opportunities to relax, celebrate, and plan short breaks throughout the year. These holidays are based on both the Gregorian calendar and the Islamic Hijri calendar, which means some dates may change depending on moon sightings. From major religious festivals like Eid to national celebrations such as the UAE National Day, the holiday calendar helps people plan travel, family gatherings, and leisure activities.
Planning time off in advance helps residents and travellers make the most of long weekends and festive celebrations. Public holidays in the UAE are based on both the Gregorian calendar and the Islamic Hijri calendar, meaning some dates may change slightly depending on moon sightings. As of early 2026, official holiday confirmations are still provisional. The next major public holiday after the start of the year is Eid Al Fitr, which is expected to bring a three-day break in March.
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Next UAE Public Holiday in 2026
For those wondering about the next day off, Eid Al Fitr is expected around March 20 to March 22, 2026. This Islamic festival marks the end of Ramadan and is one of the most celebrated UAE public holidays in 2026. It usually brings a long weekend, giving residents time to relax, travel, or spend time with family.
Eid Al Fitr holidays often include festive meals, cultural events, shopping offers, and entertainment activities across the UAE. Because it falls close to a weekend in 2026, many people expect an extended break.
Complete List of UAE Public Holidays in 2026
| Holiday | Expected Dates | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | 1 Day | Gregorian calendar holiday |
| Eid Al Fitr | March 20–22 | 3 Days | End of Ramadan, moon-sighting dependent |
| Arafat Day | May 26 | 1 Day | The day before Eid Al Adha |
| Eid al-Adha | May 27–29 | 3 Days | May extend to weekend |
| Islamic New Year | June 16 | 1 Day | Start of Hijri year |
| Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday | August 25 | 1 Day | Religious observance |
| Commemoration Day | December 1 | 1 Day | National remembrance day |
| UAE National Day | December 2–3 | National Remembrance Day | Major national celebration |
Here is a general overview of the expected UAE public holidays in 2026. These dates may shift slightly based on official announcements.
New Year’s Day on January 1 marks the first public holiday of the year. It is a widely celebrated occasion with fireworks, events, and social gatherings.
Eid Al Fitr expected from March 20 to March 22 is the next major Islamic holiday. It concludes Ramadan and typically includes multiple days off.
Arafat Day anticipated around May 26 is an important Islamic observance preceding Eid Al Adha.
Eid Al Adha is expected from May 27 to May 29, following Arafat Day and is among the longest UAE public holidays in 2026. Combined with weekends, it may create a six-day break.
Islamic New Year, likely on June 16, marks the start of the new Hijri year and is usually a one-day holiday.
Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday, expected on August 25 is another significant religious observance recognized as a public holiday.
Commemoration Da,y observed on December 1, honors the sacrifices of UAE heroes and is an important national occasion.
UAE National Day, celebrated on December 2 and 3, marks the country’s formation and is one of the most festive UAE public holidays in 2026.
Transferable Holiday Policy Explained
The UAE government sometimes shifts certain public holidays to create long weekends. This policy applies mainly to non-religious holidays such as New Year’s Day, Islamic New Year, Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday, and National Day. These adjustments aim to boost tourism, encourage leisure travel, and improve work life balance.
Islamic holidays like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha usually remain fixed according to moon sightings and are not transferred.
Understanding this policy helps residents plan vacations and leave days more efficiently around UAE public holidays in 2026.
Long Weekend Opportunities in 2026
Several UAE public holidays in 2026 are expected to create extended breaks. Eid Al Fitr in March offers a three-day holiday that may combine with weekends for a longer break. Eid al-Adha in May is likely the longest holiday period of the year, especially when weekends are included.
December also provides good opportunities, with Commemoration Day and National Day falling close together. Many residents use these periods for travel or family celebrations.
Strategic planning around UAE public holidays in 2026 can help maximize time off without using too many annual leave days.
School Holiday Alignment
School schedules often align with major Islamic holidays. Spring breaks around March and mid term breaks in May may coincide with Eid celebrations. This alignment allows families to travel together during UAE public holidays in 2026 without disrupting academic schedules.
Families planning vacations should check school calendars early to secure better travel deals and avoid peak pricing.
Importance of Confirming Dates
Islamic holidays depend on moon sightings, so official confirmations usually come closer to the date. While expected dates provide guidance, final announcements may vary by a day.
Residents should monitor official UAE government announcements and reliable news sources for confirmed UAE public holidays in 2026.
Keeping track of confirmed dates ensures accurate planning for travel, events, and work commitments.
Tips to Maximize Holidays in 2026
Planning annual leave strategically around UAE public holidays in 2026 can significantly increase time off. Some experts suggest combining just a few leave days with public holidays to create extended vacation periods.
Booking travel early can also help secure better prices, especially during popular holiday periods like Eid and National Day.
Flexibility with travel dates, early planning, and awareness of official announcements can help residents make the most of their holidays.
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Public Holiday Observance Across Sectors
Public holidays apply to both public and private sector employees, although implementation details may vary slightly depending on company policies or free zone regulations. Most businesses, malls, and entertainment venues remain open during holidays, often with special promotions and events.
Hospitality, retail, and tourism sectors usually see increased activity during UAE public holidays in 2026, making these periods vibrant and festive across the country.
Understanding how holidays affect work schedules helps individuals plan both professional commitments and personal leisure effectively.