The year 2026 features eight official public holidays in the UAE. This includes Eid-ul-Fitr, Arafat Day, Eid-ul-Adha, Islamic New Year, and the Prophet's Birthday. It also has Commemoration Day, UAE National Day, and New Year's Day. These holidays give people a chance to celebrate, plan, and travel.
What are the Public Holidays in the UAE?
Public holidays in the UAE are the days when government offices, businesses, and the majority of other institutions close. These are paid holidays during which friends and family get together to celebrate. Thereby fostering a sense of community and reinforcing the nation’s identity. They provide the UAE’s population with the opportunity to observe cultural, religious, and national days. Taking on a significant role in the promotion of work-life balance, unity, and social harmony. A calendar of UAE public holidays planned for the year 2026 is provided below. Their exact dates are mentioned to facilitate your scheduling and organization of work.
Official Public Holidays in the UAE in 2026
During the public holidays, the majority of companies and government offices in the UAE are not open. Thus, the priority becomes organizing your time effectively and managing holiday schedules. So, don’t forget to rent a car in Dubai to have the best experience.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
| January 1, 2026 | Thursday | New Year’s Day |
| March 20, 2026* | Friday | Eid al-Fitr (1st Day) |
| March 21, 2026* | Saturday | Eid al-Fitr Holiday |
| March 22, 2026* | Sunday | Eid al-Fitr Holiday |
| May 26, 2026* | Tuesday | Arafat Day |
| May 27, 2026* | Wednesday | Eid al-Adha (1st Day) |
| May 28, 2026* | Thursday | Eid al-Adha Holiday |
| May 29, 2026* | Friday | Eid al-Adha Holiday |
| June 16, 2026* | Tuesday | Islamic New Year |
| August 25, 2026* | Tuesday | Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (Mawlid) |
| December 1, 2026 | Tuesday | Commemoration Day |
| December 2, 2026 | Wednesday | UAE National Day |
| December 3, 2026 | Thursday | UAE National Day Holiday |
Upcoming Holidays in UAE – 2026 (Updated)
When it comes to extended public holidays in the UAE in 2026, residents can enjoy several long weekends. While Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha provide generous breaks earlier in the year, the end of 2026 also offers extended weekends with Commemoration Day and UAE National Day.
Below are the corrected and updated dates for 2026.
Commemoration Day – December 1, 2026 (Tuesday)
Commemoration Day, previously known as Martyrs’ Day, honors Emirati martyrs who sacrificed their lives in military, civilian, and humanitarian service.
It is observed annually on December 1 and falls on Tuesday in 2026.
As it comes just before National Day, it creates a long weekend opportunity.
UAE National Day – December 2–3, 2026 (Wednesday–Thursday)
UAE National Day celebrates the unification of the Emirates in 1971.
In 2026:
-
December 2 (Wednesday) – National Day
-
December 3 (Thursday) – National Day Holiday
Combined with the weekend, this creates a 4-day weekend (Thursday–Sunday) for many residents.
Celebrations include:
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Fireworks
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Parades
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Cultural events
-
National pride displays across the country
New Year’s Day – January 1, 2026 (Thursday)
New Year’s Day marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year.
In 2026, it falls on Thursday, January 1.
Major celebrations include:
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Fireworks at Burj Khalifa
-
Events across Dubai and Abu Dhabi
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Family gatherings and outdoor festivities
Official UAE Public Holidays in 2026 (Corrected List)
(Islamic holidays are subject to moon sighting confirmation)
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January 1, 2026 (Thursday) – New Year’s Day
-
March 20–22, 2026 (Fri–Sun) – Eid Al Fitr
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May 26, 2026 (Tuesday) – Arafat Day
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May 27–29, 2026 (Wed–Fri) – Eid Al Adha
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June 16, 2026 (Tuesday) – Islamic New Year
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August 25, 2026 (Tuesday) – Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (PBUH)
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December 1, 2026 (Tuesday) – Commemoration Day
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December 2–3, 2026 (Wed–Thu) – UAE National Day
Background of Major Islamic Holidays (Updated)
Eid Al Fitr – March 20–22, 2026 (Expected)
Eid Al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and the beginning of Shawwal.
The exact date depends on moon sighting and may vary slightly.
Arafat Day – May 26, 2026 (Expected)
Arafat Day is observed on the 9th of Dhu Al Hijjah during Hajj. It is a significant day of fasting and prayer.
Eid Al Adha – May 27–29, 2026 (Expected)
Eid Al Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion and willingness to sacrifice his son.
The holiday typically lasts 3 days after Arafat Day.
Islamic New Year – June 16, 2026 (Expected)
Marks the beginning of the Hijri calendar (1st Muharram).
It is observed as a public holiday across the UAE.
Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Birthday – August 25, 2026 (Expected)
Also known as Mawlid Al Nabi, this day commemorates the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Conclusion
The UAE public holidays in 2026 offer several opportunities for long weekends, especially:
-
Eid holidays
-
National Day 4-day weekend
-
Year-end celebrations
Islamic holidays remain subject to official moon sighting announcements by UAE authorities.
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Emila Hales
My name is Emila Hales. I've been living in the UAE for the past five years, and I absolutely love traveling. Writing about my travel experiences is something I enjoy, and I'm excited to share my adventures with others who are passionate about exploring new places.
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