The crescent moon marking the beginning of Dhul Hijjah was sighted in the UAE on Sunday, May 17, 2026, confirming the dates for UAE Eid Al Adha 2026 celebrations. As a result, Monday, May 18, will be observed as the first day of Dhul Hijjah, the 12th and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
This also means that the Day of Arafah will fall on Tuesday, May 26 (Dhul Hijjah 9) and Eid Al Adha will start on the following day, Wednesday, May 27 (Dhul Hijjah 10). Astronomical calculations in the country previously predicted sighting the moon on May 17 and the beginning of Eid Al Adha, one of Islam’s two biggest feasts, on May 27.
How the UAE sighted the moon
The UAE Fatwa Council said the announcement was made after careful review of sighting results and observation reports submitted by specialists, experts, and official moon sighting teams across the country.
These were collected through an approved network of observatories overseen by institutions and centres specialising in space and astronomy sciences, in coordination with “Sighter of the Seal” under the International Astronomy Center, as well as “Sighter of Dubai” in collaboration with the Department of Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities in Dubai, and “Sighter of Sharjah” in cooperation with the Sharjah Astronomy and Space Complex.
The Council noted that the moon sighting process was conducted under an integrated national system based on Sharia guidelines, supported by modern astronomical observation techniques and technologies. It added that this approach enhances the accuracy and reliability of the results, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to leveraging scientific advancement in support of religious and humanitarian practices.
Eid holiday in UAE
An official 5-day break for Eid Al Adha was already announced last week for government employees. The holiday will be observed from Monday, May 25, until Friday, May 29. When combined with the official weekends (Sat/Sun), this could give employees a 9-day extended holiday.
Work will resume on Monday, June 1. In Sharjah, the government operates on a 4-day workweek with a 3-day weekend (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday). This will translate the 5 days into a 10-day-long mini holiday.
How UAE residents can spend their eid if they’re not travelling
With the Eid Al Adha break shaping up to be one of the most travel-friendly long weekends of the year, UAE residents are locking in quick escapes and doing it fast. With the official public holiday starting from Tuesday, May 27, to Friday, May 30, residents with a Saturday–Sunday weekend can easily turn it into a six-day break.
1. Explore staycation deals across the UAE
Many hotels and resorts typically launch special Eid packages, allowing residents to enjoy a short getaway without leaving the country. Beach resorts, desert retreats and city hotels often attract families looking for a quick escape.
2. Visit indoor attractions and entertainment venues
With warm temperatures expected in late May, indoor destinations such as malls, theme parks, aquariums, museums and family entertainment centres can become popular options.
3. Enjoy family gatherings and traditional Eid celebrations
Residents can spend time visiting relatives and friends, sharing meals and participating in Eid traditions, including charitable activities and community events.
