The UAE has 13 official public holidays in 2026, covering both Islamic observances and national occasions. These apply to both the public and private sectors. Islamic holiday dates are subject to official moon sighting confirmation and may shift by one day from the dates listed below.
Table of Contents
UAE Public Holidays 2026 — Full Date Table
| Holiday | Date | Day | Islamic Month | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | 1 January | Thursday | — | Fixed date |
| Eid Al Fitr | 20–22 March | Friday–Sunday | Shawwal 1–3 | +1 day if Ramadan = 30 days |
| Day of Arafat | 26 May | Tuesday | Dhu Al-Hijjah 9 | Moon sighting dependent |
| Eid Al Adha | 27–29 May | Wednesday–Friday | Dhu Al-Hijjah 10–12 | Moon sighting dependent |
| Islamic New Year | 16 June | Tuesday | Muharram 1 | Moon sighting dependent |
| Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday | 25 August | Tuesday | Rabiʽ al-Awwal 12 | Moon sighting dependent |
| Commemoration Day | 30 November | Monday | — | Fixed date |
| UAE National Day | 2–3 December | Tuesday–Wednesday | — | Fixed date |
Islamic holiday dates are announced officially by UAE authorities following moon sighting — the dates above are projected estimates based on astronomical calculations and may change by one or two days.
Long Weekends in 2026
Several holidays in 2026 fall adjacent to weekends, creating extended breaks worth planning around.
| Long Weekend | Dates | Days Off |
|---|---|---|
| Eid Al Fitr | 20–22 March (Fri–Sun) | 3 days minimum, 4 if Ramadan = 30 days |
| Eid Al Adha | 27–29 May + 30–31 May weekend | Up to 5 consecutive days off |
| UAE National Day | 2–3 December + 4–5 December weekend | 4 days including weekend |
The Eid Al Adha break is the longest extended holiday of 2026, running from Wednesday 27 May through Sunday 31 May — a full five-day break for most residents without using any annual leave.
Pro tip: Eid Al Adha flight and hotel prices typically peak from 27 May — booking travel for departure on 26 May (Day of Arafat, a separate public holiday) or after 31 May reduces costs significantly.
How UAE Public Holidays Work
Public holidays in the UAE are days declared by the Federal government on which both government and private sector employees are entitled to paid leave. This is distinct from optional or sector-specific leave.
Not all holidays apply equally across sectors. Some government entities observe additional holidays not listed here. Employees should verify their specific employer’s holiday calendar, as companies operating across different free zones may follow slightly different schedules.
Employees who work on a public holiday are entitled to compensation, typically either a day off in lieu or additional pay, as governed by UAE Labour Law. The specific entitlement depends on the employment contract and sector.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many public holidays are there in UAE 2026?
There are 13 official public holidays in the UAE in 2026, starting with New Year’s Day on 1 January and ending with UAE National Day on 2 and 3 December. This total applies to both public and private sector employees, though individual employers may observe additional holidays based on free zone or sector rules.
Are UAE public holiday dates confirmed for 2026?
New Year’s Day, Commemoration Day, and UAE National Day are fixed dates confirmed in advance. Eid Al Fitr, Day of Arafat, Eid Al Adha, Islamic New Year, and Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday are subject to official moon sighting confirmation by UAE authorities and may shift by one or two days from the projected dates.
Do UAE public holidays apply to free zone companies?
Most UAE public holidays apply across mainland and free zone companies, but specific free zones may have their own supplementary holiday schedules. Employees working in free zones should check with their HR department or refer to their employment contract to confirm which holidays apply to their workplace.
Last verified: July 2026 Reviewed by: UAE Content Team Source: UAE Government Portal — Official Holidays
