Several UAE public holidays have already been confirmed for 2026, while others are pending confirmation.
The United Arab Emirates has released its framework for public holidays in 2026, giving residents and businesses early visibility on potential long weekends and national observances across the year.
As in previous years, the UAE holiday calendar combines fixed-date national holidays with Islamic occasions that are determined by the lunar Hijri calendar and confirmed closer to the time based on moon sighting.
This means some dates are estimates and may shift by a day depending on official announcements.
New Year’s Day
The public holiday calendar begins with New Year’s Day, which remains a fixed date each year.
In 2026, New Year’s Day falls on Thursday, 1 January.
This holiday applies across the public and private sectors and traditionally marks the first official break of the year.
For many employees, it provides a midweek pause that can be extended with annual leave.
Key points:
- Date: Thursday, 1 January 2026
- Applies to all sectors
- Fixed Gregorian date
Eid Al Fitr
Eid Al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is one of the most significant holidays in the UAE.
The holiday typically includes Ramadan 29 and Shawwal 1–3, depending on the length of the holy month.
In 2026, Eid Al Fitr is expected to fall around March, though the exact dates will only be confirmed following moon sighting closer to the time.
The holiday period often results in a long break, especially when combined with weekends.
What to expect:
- Three to four days of holiday
- Dates subject to moon sighting
- One of the busiest travel periods of the year
Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha
Arafat Day precedes Eid Al Adha and is observed on the 9th day of Dhu Al Hijjah in the Islamic calendar.
Eid Al Adha follows immediately after and is typically granted as a three-day holiday.
In 2026, these holidays are expected to fall in late May or early June, but final dates will depend on lunar observations.
This period often provides one of the longest consecutive breaks of the year for UAE residents.
Holiday structure:
- Arafat Day: 1 day
- Eid Al Adha: 3 days
- Dates confirmed closer to the event
Islamic New Year
Islamic New Year marks the beginning of the Hijri calendar year.
The holiday is observed for one day and is expected to fall in mid-June 2026, subject to moon sighting.
While typically a quieter public holiday, it still provides a valuable break for employees across sectors.
Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday
The Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday is observed on the 12th day of Rabi’ Al Awwal.
In 2026, it is expected to fall in late August or early September, depending on lunar confirmation.
The holiday is marked by religious observance and is granted as a one-day public holiday nationwide.
Commemoration Day and National Day
Commemoration Day is observed on 1 December each year and honors Emirati martyrs, and it is a public holiday in the UAE every year.
National Day follows on 2 and 3 December, celebrating the formation of the UAE in 1971.
In 2026, these dates fall on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, creating the potential for an extended break when combined with annual leave.
National holidays overview:
- Commemoration Day: Tuesday, 1 December 2026
- National Day: Wednesday and Thursday, 2–3 December 2026
- Fixed Gregorian dates
Planning Ahead for 2026 Public Holidays
While some holiday dates remain subject to official confirmation, the 2026 calendar offers multiple opportunities for extended breaks throughout the year.
Employees and businesses are advised to monitor official announcements as Islamic holiday dates approach and to plan travel and leave accordingly.
With a balanced mix of religious and national observances, the UAE public holiday schedule for 2026 continues to reflect the country’s cultural and historical identity while supporting work-life balance for residents.
