UAE public holidays 2026 are expected to offer at least 12 official days off, including one of the longest breaks residents have seen in recent years — a six-day long weekend in May. These holidays apply across United Arab Emirates, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the northern emirates.

Each year, UAE public holidays are set through a combination of fixed Gregorian dates and Islamic occasions determined by the Hijri lunar calendar. While some holidays are officially confirmed only days in advance, astronomical calculations allow reliable predictions well ahead of time.

For employees, families, and businesses, understanding the UAE public holidays calendar is essential for planning travel, booking leave, and organising work schedules. In 2026, most public holidays are expected to fall on weekdays, maximising long-weekend opportunities and minimising lost days to weekends.

How UAE public holidays are determined

UAE public holidays are governed by federal law, updated in April 2024 and implemented from January 2025. Holidays fall into two categories:

• Fixed-date holidays based on the Gregorian calendar
• Religious holidays based on the Islamic Hijri calendar

Islamic holidays such as Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha depend on moon sightings, meaning final confirmation usually happens shortly before the holiday begins.

Full list of predicted UAE public holidays 2026

*Official dates fall on Tuesdays and are expected to be moved to Monday for a long weekend.

Long weekends to look forward to in 2026

The standout break in 2026 is Eid Al Adha, which could deliver a six-day long weekend when combined with Saturday and Sunday.

Additionally, Islamic New Year and the Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday are predicted to be shifted, offering extended breaks without taking annual leave.

Will UAE public holidays be moved in 2026?

Yes, UAE law allows authorities to move certain public holidays to the beginning or end of the week to create long weekends. This does not apply to Eid holidays, which follow religious observance strictly.

In 2026, no public holidays are expected to overlap with weekends or each other, ensuring residents benefit from the full entitlement.

Why UAE public holidays matter for residents

Public holidays play a major role in work-life balance, domestic tourism, and travel planning. Many residents use long weekends for staycations, visiting family, or exploring other emirates.

For professionals considering relocation or long-term living in the UAE, the annual holiday calendar is an important lifestyle factor — alongside cost of living, commute, and housing options.

FAQs – UAE Public Holidays 2026

Conclusion: Plan ahead with UAE public holidays 2026

The UAE public holidays 2026 calendar offers generous breaks, long weekends, and well-timed holidays that make planning the year easier for residents and businesses alike. With most holidays falling on weekdays, 2026 is shaping up to be an excellent year for maximising time off without using excessive annual leave.

Whether you’re planning travel, considering relocation, or organising work schedules, staying informed about public holidays helps you make smarter decisions.

At OPlus Realty, we track lifestyle, cost-of-living, and planning factors that matter to residents across the UAE.
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