The UAE public holidays 2026 calendar gives residents across the country clear visibility on official days off, long weekends, and major religious and national occasions. In 2026, employees in the United Arab Emirates can expect at least 12 official public holidays, including a standout six-day long weekend in May.

Public holidays in the UAE are determined using a mix of the Gregorian calendar and the Islamic Hijri calendar, which is based on lunar cycles. While some holidays are fixed, others — particularly Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha — are confirmed only after official moon sightings. However, astronomical projections allow reliable advance planning.

For residents of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the northern emirates, knowing the holiday calendar early helps with travel planning, annual leave optimisation, and work-life balance decisions.

How UAE public holidays are decided

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

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

Religious holidays depend on moon sightings, which means final confirmation usually occurs one or two days before the holiday begins. Authorities may also move some holidays to the start or end of the week to create long weekends, except for Eid holidays.

UAE public holidays 2026 – full calendar

Below is the updated and predicted UAE public holidays calendar for 2026, based on current astronomical calculations and federal guidelines.

Official religious date falls on Tuesday and is expected to be moved to Monday to create a long weekend.

Long weekends to expect in the UAE in 2026

The highlight of the UAE public holidays 2026 calendar is undoubtedly Eid Al Adha. When combined with the weekend, residents could enjoy six consecutive days off, making it ideal for international travel or extended staycations.

Other long weekends are expected around:

• Islamic New Year
• Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (PBUH)

These are likely to be shifted to Mondays, giving employees a three-day weekend without using annual leave.

Will UAE public holidays be moved in 2026?

Yes. UAE law allows authorities to move most public holidays — except Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha — to the beginning or end of the week. This policy is designed to enhance work-life balance and stimulate domestic tourism.

In 2026, no Islamic holidays are expected to overlap with fixed Gregorian holidays or weekends, meaning residents should receive the full benefit of every public holiday.

Why the UAE public holidays calendar matters

Public holidays influence:

• Annual leave planning
• Travel and flight pricing
• School schedules
• Work productivity and wellbeing

For expats and professionals considering long-term living in the UAE, the holiday structure is an important lifestyle factor — alongside housing costs, commuting, and family amenities.

FAQs – UAE Public Holidays 2026 Calendar

Conclusion: Plan your year with the UAE public holidays 2026 calendar

The UAE public holidays 2026 calendar offers residents a well-balanced mix of religious, national, and extended breaks. With multiple long weekends and no major overlaps with weekends, 2026 is shaping up to be an excellent year for maximising time off without excessive annual leave.

Whether you’re planning travel, managing work schedules, or considering relocation within the UAE, staying updated on official holidays helps you plan smarter and live better.

At OPlus Realty, we keep track of lifestyle factors that matter to residents — from public holidays to cost of living and community guides.
📅 Explore our UAE living insights and area guides to plan your year with confidence.