All Dubai government bodies, departments, and institutions will suspend operations starting Thursday, March 19, with normal working hours resuming on Monday, March 23, 2026 — a four-day break marking one of Islam’s most significant celebrations.
The Dubai Government Human Resources Department issued the circular covering the Eid Al-Fitr holiday for 1447 AH, the festival that marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection observed by nearly two billion Muslims worldwide.
Eid Al-Fitr — which translates to “Festival of Breaking the Fast” — is among the most anticipated occasions in the Islamic calendar. It begins with a special congregational prayer held at mosques and open grounds, followed by family gatherings, communal meals, and the exchange of greetings such as “Eid Mubarak.” A mandatory charitable contribution known as Zakat Al-Fitr is also given before the prayer, ensuring that the less fortunate can take part in the celebration.
This year, astronomers confirmed that Eid Al-Fitr will fall on Friday, March 20, after Ramadan completes a full 30 days. The Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences, and Technology had earlier determined that crescent sighting conditions across the UAE on the traditional observation night would be unfavorable, ruling out the possibility of Shawwal beginning a day earlier.
For the large Filipino workforce employed across Dubai’s government-linked sectors, the DGHR circular effectively confirms a four-day break beginning Thursday — time that many in the community are expected to spend joining their Muslim colleagues and neighbors in the Eid festivities.
