Residents across the Emirates are already looking ahead and asking the same question: when is the next UAE public holiday? After New Year’s Day kicked off the calendar, the next official break expected in the country will be Eid Al Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.
While excitement is building, the exact dates are still awaiting official confirmation. As with all Islamic holidays in the UAE, the final decision depends on the sighting of the moon. That means residents will need to wait a little longer before booking travel plans or confirming staycations.
Ramadan 2026: When Is It Expected to Begin?
Ramadan is predicted to begin on Tuesday, February 18, 2026. However, this remains subject to the official moon sighting announcement. The Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, meaning months can be either 29 or 30 days long.
Because of this, the length of Ramadan directly impacts when Eid Al Fitr will fall. Authorities typically confirm the start of Shawwal — the month that begins with Eid — only after the crescent moon is observed. This usually happens one or two days before the holiday.
Possible Eid Al Fitr Holiday Scenarios
Based on current astronomical predictions, there are several likely outcomes for the next UAE public holiday. Each scenario could result in a welcome long weekend for residents.
Scenario One: Ramadan Lasts 30 Days
If Ramadan begins on Tuesday, February 18 and runs for 30 days, the final day of fasting would fall on Friday, March 20. In this case, Eid Al Fitr would begin on Friday, March 20 and continue for the first three days of Shawwal, ending on Monday, March 23.
This would create a four-day public holiday from Friday through Monday, giving residents a long weekend to celebrate, travel, or simply unwind.
Scenario Two: Ramadan Lasts 29 Days
If Ramadan lasts 29 days instead, the final fast would fall on Thursday, March 19. Eid Al Fitr would then begin on Thursday, March 19 and continue until Saturday, March 21.
With Sunday forming part of the regular weekend for many employees, this scenario would also result in a four-day break from Thursday through Sunday.
Scenario Three: Shaban and Ramadan Both Complete 30 Days
There is also a third possibility if both the preceding month of Shaban and Ramadan complete 30 days. Under this scenario, Saturday, March 21 would mark the first day of Shawwal.
If this occurs, the Eid Al Fitr holiday would likely run from Friday, March 20 to Monday, March 23, again delivering a four-day long weekend for residents across the UAE.
Why Eid Al Fitr Dates Can Change
Unlike fixed public holidays on the Gregorian calendar, Islamic holidays shift each year because they follow the lunar calendar. The UAE’s moon-sighting committee meets near the end of Ramadan to confirm whether the crescent moon has been sighted.
If the moon is seen, the following day becomes the first of Shawwal and the start of Eid Al Fitr. If it is not sighted, Ramadan completes 30 days and Eid begins the day after.
This system ensures religious accuracy but also means final holiday dates are confirmed only shortly before the break.
What Eid Al Fitr Means in the UAE
Eid Al Fitr is one of the most important celebrations in the Islamic calendar. It marks the end of a month of fasting, reflection, and prayer. Families gather for special prayers, festive meals, and community visits.
Across the UAE, malls, attractions, hotels, and entertainment venues often launch seasonal offers. Fireworks displays and cultural events are commonly organised, especially in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
For many residents, it is also a valuable opportunity to travel abroad or enjoy a short domestic getaway.
Predicted UAE Public Holidays for 2026
Beyond Eid Al Fitr, several other public holidays are expected throughout 2026, all subject to official confirmation.
New Year’s Day was observed on Thursday, January 1, 2026.
Eid Al Fitr is currently expected to fall between Friday, March 20 and Sunday, March 22, 2026, depending on moon sighting confirmation.
Arafat Day is predicted to take place on Tuesday, May 26, 2026.
Eid Al Adha is expected to run from Wednesday, May 27 to Friday, May 29, 2026.
Islamic New Year is forecast for Monday, June 15, 2026.
The Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday is anticipated on Monday, August 24, 2026.
UAE National Day will be celebrated on Wednesday, December 2 and Thursday, December 3, 2026.
All Islamic holidays remain subject to official announcements closer to the time, as they depend on the lunar calendar.
Planning Ahead for the Next UAE Public Holiday
Although nothing is confirmed yet, residents can confidently expect the next UAE public holiday to arrive in March 2026 with Eid Al Fitr. Based on predictions, there is a strong chance it will result in a four-day long weekend.
For those considering travel plans, it may be wise to choose flexible booking options until official confirmation is announced. Hotels and airlines often see increased demand during Eid, especially if it aligns with a long weekend.
As anticipation builds, many across the Emirates are already counting down. Whether it becomes a four-day break from Thursday to Sunday or Friday to Monday, one thing is clear: the next UAE public holiday is not far away, and it promises a well-deserved pause for residents across the country.
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