UAE residents may want to mark their calendars early for 2026, as the year is expected to bring at least 12 public holidays—with the possibility of a rare six-day weekend, depending on how Islamic dates align with the Gregorian calendar.
While the UAE government has not officially released next year’s public holiday schedule, projections based on lunar calendars and federal laws suggest a promising lineup of days off, allowing residents to plan vacations and long weekends in advance.
Among the highlights is the potential six-day holiday around Eid Al Adha, with astronomers forecasting Arafat Day to fall on Tuesday, May 26, followed by Eid Al Adha from Wednesday to Friday—leading right into the weekend.
The end of Ramadan could also bring a three-day weekend from March 20 to 22 for Eid Al Fitr.
Aside from Islamic holidays, fixed-date events such as New Year’s Day (January 1) and UAE National Day (December 1–2) will continue to provide additional breaks.
According to the UAE Cabinet, non-Eid holidays may be shifted to the start or end of the week for longer rest periods. However, if a holiday falls on a weekend, it will not be moved to another day.
Here’s a look at the predicted UAE holidays in 2026, pending official confirmation:
New Year’s Day – Thursday, January 1
Eid Al Fitr – Friday, March 20 to Sunday, March 22
Arafat Day – Tuesday, May 26
Eid Al Adha – Wednesday, May 27 to Friday, May 29
Islamic New Year – Tuesday, June 16
Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (PBUH) – Tuesday, August 25
UAE National Day – Tuesday and Wednesday, December 1–2
For 2025, three holidays remain: the Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (September 5) and National Day (December 2–3).
As always, final dates—especially those tied to Islamic observances—will be confirmed closer to the time based on moon sightings. Residents are advised to monitor official announcements for updates.
