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The UAE has released the predicted public holiday dates for 2026, giving residents and visitors a chance to plan ahead. With a mix of holidays based on the Islamic Hijri and Gregorian calendars, 2026 promises at least 12 official days off, including a six-day long weekend in May for Eid Al Adha and Arafat Day.
Key Highlights:
- Number of Holidays: Minimum of 12 official days off in 2026
- Long Weekends:
- Eid Al Fitr: Three-day weekend (March 20–22)
- Arafat Day & Eid Al Adha: Six-day long weekend (May 26–31)
- Islamic New Year & Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday: Likely adjusted to create long weekends
- Gregorian Calendar Holidays:
- New Year’s Day: Thursday, January 1
- National Day: Wednesday, December 2 and Thursday, December 3
- Islamic Calendar Holidays:
- Eid Al Fitr: Friday, March 20 – Sunday, March 22
- Arafat Day: Tuesday, May 26
- Eid Al Adha: Wednesday, May 27 – Friday, May 29
- Islamic New Year: Monday, June 15 (official day Tuesday, June 16)
- Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (PBUH): Monday, August 24 (official day Tuesday, August 25)
- Flexibility & Planning:
- Some dates are based on moon sightings; exact Islamic holidays confirmed closer to the date.
- Local authorities can add extra holidays if needed.
- Mid-week holidays may be moved to create long weekends for convenience.
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