Residents across the United Arab Emirates are already planning their vacations as the expected public holiday calendar for 2026 reveals several long weekends and national celebrations throughout the year. Based on the UAE public holiday law introduced in 2025 workers can look forward to at least twelve official days off across the year in Dubai and the other Emirates.
The holiday schedule in the UAE includes a combination of dates based on the Gregorian calendar and those determined by the Islamic lunar calendar. Because Islamic holidays follow the Hijri calendar their exact dates depend on moon sightings and are usually confirmed only shortly before the celebrations begin.
Despite this astronomers and calendar specialists are able to provide reliable predictions well in advance which helps residents organise travel plans and holidays.
One of the first confirmed holidays of the year is New Year’s Day which will fall on Thursday January 1 creating a long weekend for many employees.
The next major break will be the celebration of Eid al-Fitr marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan. In 2026 the holiday is expected to run from Thursday March 19 until Sunday March 22 providing a four day long weekend across the country.
Later in the year another extended break is expected for Eid al-Adha and Arafat Day. With the predicted dates falling close to the weekend residents could enjoy a six day holiday stretch from Tuesday May 26 through Sunday May 31 depending on official confirmations.
Additional religious holidays will also take place during the year including the Islamic New Year and the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad. These occasions are expected to fall on weekdays and may be moved to the beginning of the week to allow longer weekends under UAE holiday regulations.
Towards the end of the year the country celebrates its national unity and achievements during the UAE National Day which is observed on December 2 and December 3 every year.
Predicted UAE public holiday dates for 2026
New Year’s Day – Thursday January 1
Eid al-Fitr – Thursday March 19 to Sunday March 22
Arafat Day – Tuesday May 26
Eid al-Adha – Wednesday May 27 to Friday May 29
Islamic New Year – Monday June 15 expected public holiday
Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday – Monday August 24 expected public holiday
UAE National Day – Wednesday December 2 and Thursday December 3
Authorities have also noted that local governments may announce additional holidays depending on circumstances. While predictions offer a useful guide the final confirmed dates for Islamic holidays will depend on official moon sighting announcements closer to the time.
For residents and travellers alike the 2026 calendar offers several opportunities to enjoy extended breaks explore the UAE or travel abroad.