If you’re already planning holidays, staycations or long weekends next year, here’s everything you need to know about UAE public holidays in 2026.
From New Year breaks to Eid holidays and National Day celebrations, 2026 is shaping up to be a strong year for travel planning — but there’s an important detail residents should understand before locking in flights.
Some dates are confirmed, while others are predicted and depend on moon sightings.
Here’s the complete, easy-to-understand breakdown.
New Year’s Day 2026
Thursday, January 1, 2026
New Year’s Day is a confirmed public holiday across the UAE for both public and private sectors.
In previous years, this has often created long weekends when combined with Friday or remote-work arrangements, especially for government employees.
Eid Al Fitr 2026 (Predicted)
Predicted: March 20 to March 22, 2026
Eid Al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is one of the most anticipated breaks of the year.
In 2026, forecasts suggest a three-day Eid break, with the possibility of a longer holiday depending on how weekends align.
Important note:
Eid Al Fitr dates will be officially confirmed closer to the time based on moon sightings.
Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha 2026 (Predicted)
Predicted:
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Arafat Day – Tuesday, May 26, 2026
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Eid Al Adha – May 27 to May 29, 2026
This is traditionally one of the longest public holiday periods in the UAE.
If dates align with weekends, residents could enjoy an extended break perfect for international travel or staycations.
Again, these dates are subject to official moon-sighting confirmation.
Islamic New Year 2026 (Predicted)
Predicted: Monday, June 15, 2026
The Islamic New Year marks the beginning of the Hijri calendar and is observed as a one-day public holiday.
If confirmed on a Monday, it could create a long weekend for many workers.
Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Birthday 2026 (Predicted)
Predicted: Monday, August 24, 2026
This holiday is usually observed as a single day off and often creates a long weekend when it falls near Saturday or Sunday.
Final confirmation will be issued closer to the date.
UAE National Day (Eid Al Etihad) 2026
Wednesday & Thursday, December 2 and 3, 2026
UAE National Day is a confirmed two-day public holiday celebrating the formation of the federation.
These dates are fixed and typically result in some of the biggest celebrations of the year, including fireworks, concerts and city-wide events.
Why Some Dates Are Still “Predicted”
This often confuses residents, but it’s completely normal.
Islamic holidays in the UAE are based on:
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The Hijri calendar
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Official moon sightings
Because of this, exact dates can shift by one day earlier or later. The UAE government always confirms final dates closer to each holiday.
How Many Public Holidays Could the UAE Have in 2026?
If predictions hold, residents could enjoy up to 12 public holidays in 2026 — with several chances for long weekends depending on how dates align with Saturdays and Sundays.
This makes early planning a smart move for:
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Flights
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Hotel bookings
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Leave applications
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Family travel
What Residents Should Do Now
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Use predicted dates for rough planning only
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Wait for official announcements before booking non-refundable travel
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Watch for long weekend combinations
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Keep an eye on government confirmations closer to each holiday
