UAE Public Holidays 2026: Full List of Expected Dates, and What Residents Can Look Forward To Next Year

The United Arab Emirates is widely known for celebrating its cultural and religious identity through a thoughtfully structured public holiday calendar that unites residents and citizens in shared moments of pride, reflection and community spirit. As 2026 approaches, the country is preparing for a new year of national, historical and religious observances that reflect the UAE’s values, heritage and collective journey.

 

Before stepping into 2026, the UAE marks two significant holidays at the end of December 2025. Commemoration Day on December 1 honours the nation’s martyrs, while UAE National Day, celebrated on December 2 and 3, brings people together to recognise the country’s founding in 1971 and celebrate its rapid progress and national unity.

 

Public holidays in the UAE are determined by federal legislation, which applies to both public and private sectors across all seven Emirates. While fixed holidays such as New Year’s Day and National Day fall on the same dates every year, Islamic holidays follow the Hijri lunar calendar. This means dates for Eid Al Fitr, Eid Al Adha and other religious observances may shift slightly depending on moon-sighting announcements closer to the time.

 

In 2026, residents can expect a minimum of 12 official public holidays, including a generous six-day break expected at the end of May for Eid Al Adha, depending on weekend alignment and confirmed dates. Families, professionals and businesses often plan ahead to maximise these breaks, especially around Islamic holidays that create natural opportunities for extended time off.

 

Expected Public Holidays for 2026

 

  New Year’s Day – Thursday, January 1
  Eid Al Fitr – Expected Friday, March 20 to Sunday, March 22
  Arafat Day – Expected Tuesday, May 26
  Eid Al Adha – Expected Wednesday, May 27 to Friday, May 29
  Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year) – Expected Monday, June 15, with the official day likely Tuesday, June 16
  Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Birthday – Expected Monday, August 24, with the official day likely Tuesday, August 25
  Commemoration Day – Monday, November 30 (observed on December 1 in some cases)
  UAE National Day – Wednesday, December 2 and Thursday, December 3
 

These holidays not only provide well-deserved breaks but also allow residents to reconnect with their families, traditions and communities. Islamic holidays typically encourage reflection, charity and gratitude, while national holidays reinforce unity, patriotism and the UAE’s collective identity.
 

Planning Ahead
 

With several holidays expected to fall adjacent to weekends, 2026 is shaping up to offer multiple extended breaks for residents. Businesses often adjust schedules in advance to accommodate these periods, particularly during Ramadan and around the Eid holidays when working hours and staffing needs may differ.

 

As always, the UAE will issue official confirmations closer to the dates, especially for Islamic observances dependent on the sighting of the moon. Until then, the projected calendar allows residents and companies to plan ahead, book travel, organise family gatherings and prepare for a meaningful year.

 

In essence, the UAE’s 2026 public holidays continue to reflect the nation’s commitment to honouring its culture, nurturing social bonds and offering valuable time for rest, faith and togetherness.

 

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