UAE has fixed (Gregorian) and floating (Hijri) public holidays. Total ~13–14 paid holiday days per year for the public and private sector under the unified UAE labour law.
2026 holiday calendar
| Holiday | Date 2026 (Approx.) | Days |
|---|---|---|
| New Year's Day | Thu 1 Jan 2026 | 1 |
| Eid Al Fitr | Wed 18 – Sat 21 Mar 2026 (subject to moon sighting) | 3–4 |
| Arafah Day & Eid Al Adha | Wed 27 – Sat 30 May 2026 | 4 |
| Hijri New Year (1 Muharram 1448) | ~Sat 27 Jun 2026 | 1 |
| Prophet Muhammad's Birthday (Mawlid) | ~Wed 26 Aug 2026 | 1 |
| Commemoration Day (Martyrs' Day) | Sun 30 Nov 2026 | 1 |
| UAE National Day | Tue–Wed 1–2 Dec 2026 | 2 |
Islamic dates depend on moon sighting and may shift by 1–2 days. Final dates announced by the UAE Cabinet ~1 week prior.
Weekend & long weekend tips
- UAE weekend: Saturday + Sunday (since 2022).
- Friday is a half-day in the public sector (work ends ~12:00 PM).
- Eid holidays often combine with weekend → 5–6 day breaks. Plan flights early.
- Schools have additional academic breaks (winter, spring) in February and April-May.
- National Day (Dec 1–2) usually combines with weekend = 4-day break.
What's open / closed on holidays
- Banks & government offices: closed.
- Malls & restaurants: open with extended hours; popular for family outings.
- Tourist attractions: open with peak crowds.
- Schools: closed.
- RTA Metro / Bus: extended late-night hours.
- Parking: free in all RTA paid zones.
- Salik & Darb tolls: continue to charge as normal — except Eid Al Fitr/Adha when Salik may waive (announced annually).
Frequently Asked Questions
How many public holidays does UAE have?
Approximately 13-14 paid holiday days per year, including Islamic and national holidays.
When is Eid Al Fitr 2026?
Approximately Wed 18 March – Sat 21 March 2026, subject to moon sighting.
Is Friday a holiday in UAE?
Friday is a regular working day since 2022 (the weekend shifted to Sat-Sun). However, it's a half-day in the public sector.
When is UAE National Day 2026?
December 1-2, 2026 (Tuesday-Wednesday).
Official sources: