For the first time, the UAE shifted its Eid Al Etihad public holiday, giving residents a longer four-day weekend for National Day.
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UAE Public Holidays 2026: All the Expected Days Off Next Year
Planning for 2026? Here’s a look at the public holiday dates you’re likely to have off work in the UAE.
Under the UAE public holiday law, Dubai and the other Emirates follow a set annual schedule of official days off. In 2026, residents can look forward to at least 12 public holidays, including an impressive six-day long weekend in May.
The UAE observes a combination of holidays—some based on the Islamic Hijri lunar calendar and others fixed on the Gregorian calendar. Because the Hijri calendar follows the phases of the moon, holidays such as Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha are confirmed only a few days before they start. However, astronomers provide accurate predictions well in advance.
Expected UAE Public Holidays in 2026
The predicted dates below are based on the UAE public holiday law announced in April 2024 and implemented at the start of 2025.
A three-day weekend is anticipated for Eid Al Fitr, while Eid Al Adha and Arafat Day should combine to create a major six-day break—especially when Saturday and Sunday are counted.
Many other holidays will fall mid-week. If Islamic New Year or the Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (PBUH) land on a Tuesday, they may be shifted to the start of the week, turning them into long weekends.
Most holidays in 2026 are expected to avoid weekend dates, but final confirmations will depend on moon sightings.
UAE Public Holidays 2026 – Complete Calendar
New Year – January 1, 2026 (Thursday)
The UAE begins the year with spectacular New Year celebrations across all emirates. Fireworks, live events, and gatherings mark the start of the Gregorian year, symbolising happiness, reflection, and fresh goals for the year ahead.
Eid Al Fitr (Shawwal 1–3) – March 20 to 22, 2026
(Subject to moon sighting)
Eid Al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is celebrated with prayers, family gatherings, festive meals, and charitable giving. The holiday represents gratitude, unity, and spiritual fulfillment after a month of fasting.
Arafat Day (Dhu al-Hijjah 9) – May 26, 2026
(Subject to moon sighting)
Arafat Day is one of the holiest days in Islam and a central part of the Hajj pilgrimage. Muslims observe the day with reflection and prayer, commemorating Prophet Muhammad’s Farewell Sermon and its message of unity, humility, and devotion.
Eid Al Adha (Dhu al-Hijjah 10–12) – May 27 to 29, 2026
(Subject to moon sighting)
Known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” Eid Al Adha honours Prophet Ibrahim’s test of faith. Families perform the sacrifice ritual and distribute meat to the needy. The holiday emphasises generosity, sacrifice, and compassion.
Islamic New Year (Muharram 1) – June 16, 2026 (Holiday moved to Monday, June 15)
The Islamic New Year marks the beginning of the Hijri calendar. Traditionally a quiet and spiritual occasion, it invites Muslims to reflect on the past year’s blessings and prepare for the year ahead.
Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (Rabi' al-Awwal 12) – August 25, 2026 (Holiday moved to Monday, August 24)
This day commemorates the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Muslims honour his teachings through prayer, storytelling, and community activities, strengthening their connection to Islamic history and values.
Commemoration Day – December 1, 2026 (Tuesday)
Commemoration Day pays tribute to the Emirati heroes who sacrificed their lives for the nation. It is a solemn day devoted to remembrance, national pride, and honouring the UAE’s values of loyalty and courage.
UAE National Day – December 2–3, 2026 (Wednesday & Thursday)
UAE National Day marks the historic union of the seven emirates in 1971. Celebrations include fireworks, parades, concerts, and cultural shows that highlight the UAE’s unity, heritage, and achievements.
Note:
Dates marked with “subject to moon sighting” may change based on official lunar observations in the UAE.
Observing Public Holidays in the UAE
For both citizens and expatriates, public holidays in the UAE provide meaningful opportunities to experience the country’s heritage and Islamic traditions. They offer valuable time for family celebrations, spiritual reflection, and national pride.
For HR departments and employers, understanding the 2026 holiday calendar ensures proper workforce planning, compliance with UAE labour laws, and support for employee well-being. Using HR software can automate holiday tracking and scheduling to keep teams informed and organised throughout the year.
At SandDance Tyre, we understand the importance of work-life balance and ensuring that your team stays informed about holidays and breaks. As the UAE celebrates these significant occasions, we encourage businesses to plan effectively and prioritize employee well-being. Our top-quality tyres provide the reliability and safety you need on the road, whether you’re traveling for family celebrations or business. Trust SandDance Tyre for smoother journeys throughout the year!
