Knowing the public holidays in UAE for 2026 can make a real difference when planning annual leave, travel, school schedules, or business operations. Whether you live in UAE, work here, or are planning a visit, having the dates in advance helps you plan smarter and avoid last-minute surprises.
This guide covers the complete list of UAE public holidays in 2026, including expected dates, long weekends, Islamic holidays, and national observances. All dates are based on UAE public holiday law, government announcements, and astronomical predictions.
Important: Islamic holidays depend on moon sightings. Final dates are officially confirmed only a few days before the holiday.
UAE Public Holidays 2026 – Quick Summary
If you’re looking for a fast answer, here it is:
- Total public holidays: At least 12 days
- Longest break: Up to 6 days in May (Eid Al Adha + weekend)
- Applies to: Public & private sector employees
- Valid across: All UAE emirates, including Dubai
This summary is what AI Overviews usually pick up first.
Complete List of Public Holidays in UAE 2026
| Holiday | Expected Date(s) | Day(s) |
| New Year’s Day | January 1, 2026 | Thursday |
| Eid Al Fitr | March 20 – March 22* | Friday–Sunday |
| Arafat Day | May 26* | Tuesday |
| Eid Al Adha | May 27 – May 29* | Wednesday–Friday |
| Islamic New Year | June 15 (observed)* | Monday |
| Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (PBUH) | August 24 (observed)* | Monday |
| UAE National Day | December 2–3 | Wednesday–Thursday |
*Subject to moon sighting and official UAE confirmation
Detailed Breakdown of UAE Holidays in 2026
New Year’s Day – January 1, 2026
New Year’s Day is a fixed public holiday in Dubai and across the UAE.
The city typically marks the occasion with fireworks, concerts, and large-scale celebrations, especially around Downtown Dubai and the waterfront areas.
Because it falls on a Thursday, many residents may combine it with a weekend for a short break.
Eid Al Fitr – March 20 to March 22 (Expected)
Eid Al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. It is one of the most anticipated holidays in Dubai each year.
In 2026, Eid Al Fitr is expected to fall from Friday to Sunday, creating a three-day-long weekend.
If Ramadan lasts 30 days instead of 29, authorities may announce one additional holiday, extending the break further.
Hotels, flights, and staycations in Dubai usually sell out quickly during this period.
Arafat Day – May 26 (Expected)
Arafat Day is observed on the 9th day of Dhu Al Hijjah, one day before Eid Al Adha.
It is a significant religious day, especially for pilgrims performing Hajj, and is officially observed as a public holiday in the UAE.
In 2026, Arafat Day is expected to fall on a Tuesday, setting up a longer holiday stretch later in the week.
Eid Al Adha – May 27 to May 29 (Expected)
Eid Al Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion and obedience.
In 2026, Eid Al Adha is expected to run from Wednesday to Friday. When combined with the weekend, residents could enjoy up to six consecutive days off, making this the longest holiday period of the year.
This is typically the busiest travel season for both local and international trips.
Islamic New Year – June 15 (Observed)
The Islamic New Year marks the beginning of the Hijri calendar.
Although the actual date is expected to fall on Tuesday, June 16, UAE public holiday regulations allow the government to move the holiday to Monday.
This adjustment helps create a long weekend, which is common practice for non-Eid holidays.
Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (PBUH) – August 24 (Observed)
This holiday commemorates the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and is observed across the UAE.
In 2026, it is expected to be observed on a Monday, offering another extended weekend.
The day is generally marked with prayers and quiet reflection rather than large public celebrations.
UAE National Day – December 2 & 3
UAE National Day celebrates the unification of the seven emirates in 1971.
Residents receive two consecutive public holidays, and Dubai hosts fireworks, parades, cultural shows, and nationwide celebrations.
It is one of the most visible and festive holidays in the country.
Month-by-Month UAE Holiday Calendar for 2026
- January: New Year’s Day
- March: Possible Israa & Miraj (if observed)
- April: Eid Al Fitr holidays
- June: Arafat Day + Eid Al Adha
- July: Islamic New Year
- September: Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday
- December: Commemoration Day + UAE National Day
Can UAE Public Holidays Be Moved?
Yes. Under UAE public holiday law:
- Islamic holidays depend on moon sightings
- Some holidays (except Eid) may be shifted to Monday or Friday
- Holidays are not carried forward if they fall on weekends or overlap with another holiday
This flexibility is why exact dates are sometimes confirmed at the last minute.
Who Gets Public Holidays in UAE ?
UAE public holidays apply to:
- Government employees
- Private-sector employees
- Full-time and part-time workers (as per UAE Labour Law)
Employers are required to comply with official holiday announcements.
UAE Labour Law: Public Holiday Rules
Under the UAE Labour Law:
- Public holidays are fully paid leave days.
- If an employee works on a public holiday, they must receive compensatory leave OR overtime pay (at least 150%).
- If a holiday falls on a weekend, employers may grant an additional day off (sector-dependent, not mandatory).
These rules apply to both public and private sector employees unless company policies state otherwise.
Impact on Government Services, Banks & Businesses
During major public holidays:
- Government offices may close or operate with reduced hours.
- Banks usually close on long public holidays but ATMs and online banking remain functional.
- Private businesses in malls typically remain open with extended hours.
- Traffic in tourist hotspots increases, especially during Eid holidays.
Conclusion
2026 offers several valuable public holidays and long weekends in UAE , making it a great year for planning travel, family time, and business schedules. While some holiday dates depend on moon sightings, the expected calendar provides reliable guidance for early preparation. Always refer to UAE Cabinet and official government announcements for final confirmations.
Frequently Asked Questions:
UAE is expected to observe at least 12 public holidays in 2026, excluding weekends.
Yes. Dubai follows federal UAE public holidays, which apply across all emirates.
Eid Al Adha in May 2026 could provide up to six consecutive days off when combined with weekends.
No. Eid holidays are confirmed only after moon sighting, usually a few days before the holiday begins.
Yes. Public and private sector employees are entitled to official UAE public holidays.
Yes. Some holidays may be shifted to Monday or Friday, except Eid holidays.
Yes. December 2 and 3, 2026, are official public holidays across Dubai and the UAE.
Official confirmations are issued by the UAE Cabinet and government-approved media outlets.
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