UAE Businesses Begin Planning for 2026 Eid Holidays

Businesses and employers in the UAE are already assessing public holiday planning for 2026, with Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha expected to be the longest official breaks of the year. Under the country’s public holiday law, the UAE observes at least 12 official holidays annually, with Eid-related breaks forming the largest portion. Unlike other public holidays, days off for Eid cannot be shifted to the start or end of the workweek.

Eid dates are determined by the Islamic Hijri calendar and confirmed through moon sightings, meaning final announcements are made closer to the time. However, astronomical calculations provide reliable estimates, giving companies the opportunity to plan workforce schedules, operations, and travel in advance.

Eid Al Fitr 2026

Eid Al Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, falls on the first day of Shawwal, the tenth month of the Islamic calendar. Current predictions suggest it is likely to begin on Friday, March 20, 2026, resulting in a three-day holiday from March 20 to March 22.

Alternative scenarios are possible depending on the length of the preceding lunar months. If Sha’ban lasts 29 days and Ramadan starts on Wednesday, February 18, Eid could fall on Thursday, March 19, adjusting the holiday period accordingly. A further possibility arises if both Sha’ban and Ramadan last 30 days, placing the first day of Shawwal on Saturday, March 21. In that case, the break could extend from Friday, March 20, through Monday, March 23, creating a four-day holiday.

Eid Al Adha 2026

Eid Al Adha, which commemorates the conclusion of the annual Hajj pilgrimage, is observed from Dhu Al Hijjah 9 (Arafat Day) through Dhu Al Hijjah 12. Projections indicate that Arafat Day will fall on Tuesday, May 26, with Eid celebrations running from Wednesday, May 27, to Friday, May 29.

When combined with the weekend, many employees could enjoy a six-day holiday, making Eid Al Adha the longest continuous public holiday of the year.

While official dates will be confirmed through moon sightings, these projections provide businesses with early visibility to plan staffing, logistics, retail campaigns, travel demand, and project timelines. Employers are advised to monitor announcements from UAE authorities and incorporate these projected windows into their operational calendars for 2026.

With extended breaks for both Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha, companies are preparing for potential impacts on productivity, customer service, and supply chains. Early planning allows organisations to balance operational needs while ensuring staff can observe these culturally significant holidays.