UAE Announces Public Holidays Calendar. As families and businesses start planning ahead, the UAE predicted public holidays calendar for 2026 brings welcome news. The year is expected to include at least 12 public holidays, with several chances for long weekends and extended family time.
Some holidays fall on fixed Gregorian dates. Others follow the Islamic lunar calendar and depend on moon sightings. Based on astronomical predictions and previous UAE Cabinet resolutions, here is a clear and practical look at what residents can expect in 2026.
Predicted UAE Public Holidays for 2026
The following dates give a strong indication of how the 2026 holiday calendar may look. Final confirmation will come from official UAE announcements closer to each holiday.
Fixed Gregorian Holidays
- January 1: New Year’s Day
- December 2–3: Eid Al Etihad (UAE National Day)
Islamic Lunar Holidays (Subject to Moon Sighting)
- Shawwal 1–3: Eid Al Fitr
- Dhu Al Hijjah 9: Arafat Day
- Dhu Al Hijjah 10–12: Eid Al Adha
- Muharram 1: Islamic New Year
- Rabi Al Awwal 12: Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Birthday
Expected Long Weekends in 2026
Several public holidays in 2026 may turn into long breaks, making it easier to plan travel and family gatherings.
Eid Al Fitr 2026
- Expected dates: Friday, March 20 to Sunday, March 22
- This could create a three-day weekend, marking the end of Ramadan.
Eid Al Adha 2026
- Expected dates: Tuesday, May 26 (Arafat Day) to Friday, May 29
- When combined with the weekend, residents may enjoy a six-day break, one of the longest holidays of the year.
Eid Al Etihad 2026 (UAE National Day)
- December 2–3 (Wednesday and Thursday)
- This mid-week holiday may turn into a four-day weekend when combined with Friday and Saturday.
How UAE Public Holidays Are Decided
UAE public holidays come from two calendar systems.
1. Gregorian Calendar (Fixed Dates)
These dates remain the same every year:
- New Year’s Day
- Eid Al Etihad (National Day)
2. Islamic Hijri Calendar (Variable Dates)
These holidays shift each year because the Hijri calendar is 10 to 12 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar:
- Eid Al Fitr
- Eid Al Adha
- Islamic New Year
- Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Birthday
Astronomical calculations offer early guidance, but official moon sightings determine final dates.
Important Public Holiday Rules in the UAE
Under Cabinet Resolution No. 27 of 2024, residents should note the following:
- Some holidays may be moved to the start or end of the week to create long weekends, except Eid holidays.
- Holidays that fall on weekends are not carried forward.
- Local governments may announce additional holidays for special events or occasions.
UAE School Holidays in 2026
Public holidays often align with school breaks, making 2026 easier for family planning.
MOE Curriculum Schools
- Winter Break: December 15, 2025 – January 4, 2026
- Spring Break & Eid Al Fitr: March 16 – 29
- Mid-Term Break & Eid Al Adha: May 25 – 29
- Hijri New Year Holiday: June 17
- Summer Break (Staff): Starts July 18
Dubai Private Schools (KHDA)
Schools Starting in April (2025–2026)
- Winter Break: December 15 – January 5
- Spring Break: March 16 – 30
- Academic Year Ends: March 30, 2026
Schools Starting in September (2025–2026)
- Winter Break: December 15 – January 5
- Spring Break: March 16 – 30
- Academic Year Ends: March 3, 2026
Conclusion
The UAE public holidays calendar for 2026 offers a balanced mix of fixed and flexible breaks. The combination of Gregorian holidays and shifting Islamic dates creates several opportunities for long weekends.
While predictions help with early planning, official confirmation always depends on moon sightings and UAE government announcements. Residents are advised to watch for updates closer to each holiday.
