Planning for the UAE public holidays in 2026 is now easier than ever, thanks to new rules that allow certain mid-week holidays to be shifted to create longer weekends.
The adjustments are expected to benefit residents throughout the year, offering multiple extended breaks, including a potential six-day holiday.
Here’s your complete guide to the UAE’s official and expected public holidays for 2026 — and how the new system could extend your time off.
Long weekends and transferable holidays
In 2026, the UAE will mark seven major religious and national occasions, including:
Two confirmed extended weekends, one of them up to six days long
Four holidays eligible for transfer, which may be moved to create longer breaks
Islamic holiday dates remain subject to moon sighting, as each Hijri month lasts 29 or 30 days depending on the crescent’s visibility. The dates below are based on the latest astronomical predictions.
UAE Public Holidays 2026 — Full List
New Year’s Day
Date: Thursday, January 1, 2026
Transferable? Yes
If shifted to Friday, January 2, the year could begin with a three-day weekend from January 2–4.
Eid Al Fitr
Likely dates: Friday, March 20 – Sunday, March 22
Transferable? No
Eid Al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and brings a three-day weekend for residents.
Arafah Day & Eid Al Adha
Likely dates: Tuesday, May 26 – Friday, May 29
Transferable? No
Arafah Day (Dhul Hijjah 9) is followed by three days of Eid Al Adha. When combined with the Saturday–Sunday weekend, 2026 could give residents a six-day break, expected to be the longest holiday of the year.
Islamic (Hijri) New Year
Likely date: Tuesday, June 16
Transferable? Yes
If moved to the start or end of the week, this could create another long weekend.
Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Birthday
Likely date: Tuesday, August 25
Transferable? Yes
This mid-week holiday may also be shifted to offer a longer break, pending Cabinet approval.
Commemoration Day
Date: Monday, November 30
Transferable? Not typically transferred, but could combine with National Day for a longer sequence of breaks if aligned with Cabinet decisions.
UAE National Day (Eid Al Etihad)
Official dates: Wednesday, December 2 – Thursday, December 3
Transferable? Yes
If moved to the start of the week, residents could enjoy another four-day weekend to end 2026.
Why These Dates Matter
Knowing the UAE’s 2026 public holidays helps residents plan ahead for:
Family travel
Staycations
School breaks
Cultural and religious celebrations
With the new holiday-transfer policy in effect, 2026 promises more flexibility and longer, more continuous breaks.
Note: These dates are tentative and subject to lunar sightings.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
