Are UAE public holiday dates fixed for 2026?

Most Gregorian dates are fixed; Islamic holidays may shift by one day after moon-sighting confirmation by authorities.

Do private companies close on all public holidays?

Yes, MOHRE requires paid leave on official public holidays unless your contract states otherwise.

How do I confirm last-minute changes?

Follow official ICP and MOHRE announcements on their websites or apps for any updates to holiday schedules.

UAE Public Holidays 2026: Full List and Dates

2026 UAE Public Holidays at a Glance

The UAE government has released the confirmed 2026 public holiday calendar. Most dates follow the Gregorian calendar, while a few Islamic holidays depend on moon sightings and may shift by a day. Expats should mark these dates early to arrange leave, travel, and family plans.

New Year and National Day

New Year’s Day falls on 1 January 2026. All government offices, banks, and most private companies close. National Day on 2 December brings another full day off, often extended if it lands near a weekend. Private sector employees receive paid leave on both days under MOHRE rules.

Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr

Ramadan is expected to begin around 18 February 2026. Working hours shorten for many offices during this month. Eid Al Fitr usually follows the end of Ramadan and grants two official days off for most workers. Exact dates are announced by the UAE Cabinet closer to the time, so check ICP or MOHRE updates in January 2026.

Eid Al Adha and Islamic New Year

Eid Al Adha is projected for 27 May 2026 with one additional day off, bringing the total to three days in many emirates. Islamic New Year falls around 16 August 2026. Both holidays are public holidays nationwide and trigger adjusted RTA traffic patterns and DEWA service schedules.

Other Key Dates

Commemoration Day on 30 November 2026 is observed with a full day off. Christmas Day on 25 December is not an official public holiday but many international companies and schools close voluntarily. Always confirm with your employer’s HR policy.

Planning Tips for Expats

Submit leave requests at least four weeks ahead for Eid periods when flights and hotels fill quickly.
Check your employment contract for how MOHRE rules apply to public holidays if you work in the private sector.
Plan utility payments and DEWA auto-debit around holiday weekends to avoid service interruptions.
Use the RTA app to confirm metro and bus timetables, which often run on reduced schedules during major holidays.

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