Residents and workers across the UAE are planning ahead for time off in 2026. The UAE Next Public Holiday 2026 is one of the most asked questions right now. After the New Year holiday on January 1, the next big official break is expected in March. The official calendar uses government declarations and lunar sightings to determine Islamic holiday dates.
The following list includes public holidays that have been established and predicted for 2026 which residents need to observe. Most dates are fixed, while some depend on moon sightings for Ramadan and Eid.
UAE Next Public Holiday 2026 Calendar
| Holiday | Date(s) |
| New Year’s Day | Thursday, 1 January 2026 |
| Next UAE Public Holiday 2026: Eid Al Fitr | Friday, 20 – Sunday, 22 March 2026 |
| Arafat Day | Tuesday, 26 May 2026 |
| Eid Al Adha | Wednesday, 27 – Friday, 29 May 2026 |
| Islamic New Year | Monday, 15 June 2026 (official date could move) |
| Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (PBUH) | Monday, 24 August 2026 (official date could shift) |
| National Day | Wednesday, 2 & Thursday, 3 December 2026 |
These are the main UAE public holidays predicted for 2026. Some dates may be confirmed later by official announcements.
What’s the UAE Next Public Holiday 2026?
The UAE next public holiday for 2026 will occur after the New Year holiday which starts on January 1. This holiday which celebrates the conclusion of Ramadan becomes one of the most popular festivities throughout the nation.
Eid Al Fitr Holiday Window:
Friday, 20 March – Sunday, 22 March 2026 (estimated based on moon sightings)
The Eid Al Fitr Holiday Window will begin on Friday, March 20, and end on Sunday, March 22, 2026 according to moon sighting predictions. The duration of this holiday will create a three-day weekend which most workers in the UAE will experience. The major holiday that follows New Year’s Day occurs during Eid Al Fitr.
The Islamic lunar calendar will regulate the holiday start date which officials will announce closer to the actual holiday. The expected holiday dates serve as a basis for many employers who want to provide their employees with vacation time.
What’s After the Next UAE Public Holiday?
Arafat Day & Eid Al Adha (May)
The next holiday after the current one will take place at the following date. Arafat Day & Eid Al Adha (May) holiday period includes two Islamic holidays. The Arafat Day holiday will follow Eid Al Fitr holiday as the next major holiday period. The Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah determines the dates of these holidays which follow the lunar calendar.
- Arafat Day: Tuesday, 26 May 2026
- Eid Al Adha: Wednesday, 27 – Friday, 29 May 2026
This period could result in up to six days off if it aligns with a weekend.
Other Holidays Later in 2026
The calendar also shows additional breaks for:
- Islamic New Year: Monday, 15 June 2026
- Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (PBUH): Monday, 24 August 2026
- National Day: Wednesday & Thursday, 2–3 December 2026
These holidays provide more opportunities for days off work and time with family.
How to Plan Your 2026 Days Off
Residents should plan their travel family time, and celebrations through the UAE Next Public Holiday 2026 schedule. The March Eid Al Fitr holiday provides an early opportunity for a long weekend. The extended holidays which take place during Eid Al Adha and National Day, create multiple extended breaks throughout the year.
The combination of UAE public holidays with annual leave enables some businesses to create extended vacation periods. The official confirmation of each holiday date requires verification, as moon sightings may cause minor changes to the schedule.
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