Eid Al Fitr is one of the most anticipated moments of the year for residents across the United Arab Emirates. It marks the end of Ramadan, a month defined by fasting, reflection, and togetherness, and it brings with it the promise of time off work, family gatherings, and travel plans. While many people are already circling the expected holiday on their calendars, the big question remains: could Eid Al Fitr still deliver a rare four-day-long weekend?
The answer is yes, but it depends on how the lunar calendar unfolds. With Ramadan expected to fall in late February and March, there are several possible outcomes for when Eid Al Fitr begins and how long the public holiday lasts. Below, we outline every realistic scenario, using confirmed public holiday rules and projected dates, so you can plan ahead with clarity.
How Eid Al Fitr Holidays Work in the UAE
Under UAE public holiday law, Eid Al Fitr is officially observed on the first three days of Shawwal, the Islamic month that follows Ramadan. If Ramadan lasts for 30 days instead of 29, an additional public holiday is granted, extending the break to four days.
In practical terms, this means employees in cities like Dubai are guaranteed at least three days off for Eid Al Fitr, with the possibility of a fourth day if the lunar calendar aligns in a particular way. Whether those days connect neatly to a weekend is what determines if residents enjoy a long weekend or an extended midweek break.
When Is Ramadan Expected to Begin?
Ramadan does not follow the Gregorian calendar. Instead, it begins with the sighting of the crescent moon that marks the start of the Islamic month. Based on astronomical projections, Ramadan is expected to begin either on Wednesday, February 18, or Thursday, February 19.
If the moon marking the end of Shaban is sighted earlier, Ramadan will start on February 18. If not, it will begin on February 19. From there, Ramadan will last either 29 or 30 days, depending again on moon sighting. This creates four possible combinations, each leading to a different Eid Al Fitr start date.
Scenario One: The Four-Day Weekend Outcome
The most exciting outcome for residents is also the most specific.
If Shaban lasts 29 days, Ramadan would begin on Wednesday, February 18. If Ramadan then lasts exactly 29 days, the first day of Shawwal, and therefore the first day of Eid Al Fitr, would fall on Thursday, March 19.
In this scenario, the Eid Al Fitr public holiday would run from Thursday, March 19 through Sunday, March 22. Because this includes a Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, it results in a full four-day-long weekend for most employees across the UAE.
This is the only scenario that produces a true four-day weekend without requiring additional leave days, which is why it is generating so much anticipation.
Scenario Two: A Three-Day Weekend Starting on Friday
Another possible outcome occurs if Ramadan begins on Wednesday, February 18, but still lasts 29 days, and moon sighting places Eid Al Fitr on Friday, March 20.
In this case, the Eid holiday would run from Friday, March 20 to Sunday, March 22. While this still provides a comfortable three-day weekend, it does not extend into a fourth day, as the holiday would not include a Thursday.
This scenario is considered quite likely, as Friday is a common starting point for Eid Al Fitr when Ramadan lasts 29 days.
Scenario Three: Three Days Off After a Later Ramadan Start
If Ramadan begins on Thursday, February 19 and lasts for 29 days, Eid Al Fitr would again fall on Friday, March 20.
The public holiday would be observed on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, offering a standard three-day weekend for most workers. While this does not deliver the coveted four-day break, it still provides a well-timed long weekend that many residents use for short trips or family visits.
Scenario Four: Eid Al Fitr Begins on a Saturday
The final scenario comes into play if both Shaban and Ramadan last 30 days. In this case, Ramadan would begin on February 19 and conclude after 30 days, pushing the first day of Shawwal to Saturday, March 21.
Here, the Eid Al Fitr holiday would most likely run from Saturday through Monday. Depending on individual work schedules, this may feel less like a long weekend and more like a short midweek pause, but it would still meet the legal requirement of three public holiday days.
Why Moon Sighting Matters So Much
Despite detailed astronomical forecasts, the official start of Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr is confirmed only after moon sighting. In the UAE, this responsibility lies with the Moon Sighting Committee, which convenes close to the expected dates to confirm whether the crescent moon has been observed.
Because of this process, dates can shift by a day at short notice. However, changes are usually minimal, and predictions are rarely off by more than one day. This is why employers and residents often plan tentatively, knowing that final confirmation will come closer to the time.
What This Means for Residents and Businesses
For residents, the difference between three and four days off can significantly impact travel plans, hotel prices, and leave requests. A confirmed four-day weekend often leads to higher demand for flights and staycations, while a three-day break tends to keep plans more local.
For businesses, especially in retail, hospitality, and tourism, understanding these scenarios helps with staffing and promotions. Eid Al Fitr is traditionally a peak period, and even a single extra holiday can change consumer behavior.
Planning Ahead Without Overcommitting
While it is tempting to plan immediately for a four-day weekend, the safest approach is to remain flexible. Booking refundable travel options or tentatively reserving accommodation can help you take advantage of a longer break if it materializes, without risking losses if the dates shift.
What is clear is that Eid Al Fitr will fall in the second half of March, and residents can expect either a three-day or four-day public holiday. The final outcome will depend on moon sighting, but all possibilities are now on the table.
As the holy month approaches, anticipation will continue to build, not just for the spiritual significance of Eid Al Fitr, but also for the welcome pause it brings to daily routines across the UAE.
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