UAE Public Holidays 2026: Celebrating Tradition, Unity, and Diversity

UAE Public Holidays 2026- The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a land where tradition meets modernity, and its public holidays beautifully reflect this balance. Each year, citizens and residents look forward to a calendar filled with national, cultural, and religious celebrations. These holidays are not just days off—they are moments of pride, spirituality, and togetherness.

As 2026 approaches, it’s helpful to know the key public holidays in the UAE so you can plan your year ahead, whether for family gatherings, travel, or personal reflection. Below is a detailed look at the UAE’s public holidays in 2026, their significance, and how they are celebrated across the Emirates.

1. New Year’s Day – January 1, 2026

The year begins with New Year’s Day, a global celebration marked by fireworks, family outings, and citywide events. In Dubai, the night sky over Burj Khalifa lights up with one of the world’s most spectacular fireworks displays, attracting visitors from across the globe. Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other emirates also host their own grand shows and public festivities.

For many, January 1 is a day of relaxation and optimism, symbolizing new beginnings and fresh goals for the year ahead.

2. Eid Al-Fitr – Expected Around March 19–22, 2026

Eid Al-Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, a period of fasting, prayer, and reflection for Muslims. The exact dates depend on the sighting of the moon, but in 2026, Eid Al-Fitr is expected to fall around March 19 to March 22.

The UAE government typically grants three to four days of public holiday for Eid Al-Fitr. It’s a time when families come together for festive meals, exchange gifts, and donate to charity. Mosques are filled with worshippers attending the special Eid prayer, and communities celebrate with joy and gratitude.

Visitors can witness the UAE at its most welcoming, as cities glow with decorations, shopping malls host sales, and traditional Emirati sweets like luqaimat and dates are shared generously.

3. Arafat Day – Expected Around May 27, 2026

Arafat Day is observed on the day before Eid Al-Adha, marking the second day of the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca. It commemorates the moment when Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) delivered his final sermon.

Muslims around the world fast and pray on this sacred day, seeking forgiveness and spiritual cleansing. Although it’s a one-day holiday, its importance is profound, reminding believers of devotion and humility.

4. Eid Al-Adha – Expected Around May 28–30, 2026

Also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, Eid Al-Adha is one of the most significant Islamic holidays. It commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command. In remembrance of his faith, Muslims perform the ritual of animal sacrifice (Qurbani), and the meat is shared with family, friends, and those in need.

The UAE government typically announces three to four days of public holiday for Eid Al-Adha. Families gather for prayers, feasts, and charitable giving. The spirit of compassion and unity fills the air, and many residents also take this opportunity to travel or spend time with loved ones.

5. Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year) – Expected on July 17, 2026

The Hijri New Year, also known as Al Hijra, marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar. It commemorates Prophet Muhammad’s migration from Mecca to Medina, which laid the foundation of the Islamic community.

In 2026, the Islamic New Year is expected to fall on July 17. The day is observed with prayers and quiet reflection rather than large celebrations. It’s a time for Muslims to contemplate their faith and renew their spiritual commitments for the year ahead.

6. Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday – Expected on September 25, 2026

Mawlid Al-Nabi, the birthday of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), is a day of reverence and remembrance. Across the UAE, mosques and community centers hold special lectures, recitations of the Quran, and gatherings that highlight the Prophet’s teachings of peace, compassion, and mercy.

Expected to fall on September 25, 2026, this holiday is typically marked by a one-day public break. For many residents, it’s an opportunity to reflect on the values that form the moral foundation of the nation.

7. Commemoration Day – December 1, 2026

Commemoration Day, also known as Martyrs’ Day, honors the Emirati heroes who sacrificed their lives in service to the nation. It is observed with solemn ceremonies, flag-raising events, and moments of silence across the country.

Falling on December 1, this day serves as a poignant reminder of patriotism, bravery, and national unity. The UAE pays tribute to the selfless dedication of those who defended its sovereignty and peace.

8. National Day – December 2–3, 2026

Immediately following Commemoration Day is the UAE’s most celebrated holiday — National Day. Marking the founding of the United Arab Emirates in 1971, this two-day holiday (December 2–3) is a vibrant celebration of unity among the seven emirates.

Cities come alive with fireworks, parades, concerts, and cultural shows. Emiratis proudly display the national flag, while landmarks such as Burj Khalifa, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and Yas Island are illuminated in the colors of the UAE.

National Day embodies the country’s spirit of progress and harmony, showcasing how the UAE has evolved from a desert nation into a global powerhouse of innovation and opportunity.

Planning Ahead for 2026

The UAE’s public holidays are determined according to both the Gregorian and Islamic lunar calendars, which means some dates can vary slightly based on moon sightings. The government officially confirms the dates closer to each event, so residents are advised to stay updated through announcements from the UAE Cabinet and Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR).

Whether you’re a citizen, an expatriate, or a tourist, these holidays offer a wonderful chance to explore the country’s cultural richness, engage with local traditions, and enjoy time with family and friends.

Final Thoughts

In 2026, the UAE’s public holidays once again reflect the nation’s deep respect for faith, heritage, and unity. Each occasion, from Eid celebrations to National Day festivities, tells a story of identity and shared values. As the country continues to grow and welcome people from all over the world, these holidays remind everyone—Emirati and expatriate alike—of the spirit that makes the UAE truly remarkable.