Dubai Public Holidays in 2026: Key Dates to Know

05/11/2025

Dubai Public Holidays in 2026: Key Dates to Know

Discovering the magic of Dubai is also about experiencing its rich and festive calendar of public holidays. If you’re living in Dubai, planning a trip, or simply love learning about how cultures celebrate, here’s a useful guide to the major public holidays you can expect in Dubai for 2026.

Dubai’s public holidays blend both Gregorian and Islamic calendars, ensuring a vibrant mix of celebrations throughout the year. Islamic dates are based on the lunar calendar and might change, but these are the most reliable predictions for 2026:

New Year’s Day: Thursday, January 1

Start the year with celebratory fireworks and festivities on this global holiday, widely observed across Dubai.

Eid Al Fitr: Friday, March 20 to Sunday, March 22

After Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, Dubai comes alive for Eid Al Fitr with three days of feasts, prayers, and community events. Dates will be finalised after official moon sightings.

Arafat Day: Tuesday, May 26

Falling just before Eid Al Adha, Arafat Day is a special occasion for reflection; many residents enjoy a day off.

Eid Al Adha: Wednesday, May 27 to Friday, May 29

This major religious festival, known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” will feature extended public holidays. Expect large family gatherings and charitable giving throughout the city.

Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year): Tuesday, June 16

Marking the beginning of the Hijri calendar, this day is observed with quiet reflection and time spent with family. Sometimes, the holiday is moved to the start or end of the week to create a long weekend.

The Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (PBUH): Tuesday, August 25

A solemn and respectful day honoring the Prophet’s life, observed through prayers, gatherings, and community service.

UAE National Day: Tuesday, December 1 and Wednesday, December 2

One of the UAE’s most festive holidays, National Day is marked by fireworks, parades, concerts and widespread celebrations, commemorating the nation’s founding in 1971.

Important notes for 2026

Moon Sightings: The exact dates for Islamic holidays, especially Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha, will be finalised according to moon sightings, so always check close to the time for official announcements.

Holiday Adjustments: The UAE government may move some public holidays (except Eid holidays) to the start or end of the week to create longer weekends, making it easier for residents and visitors to plan getaways.

Dubai Public Holidays in 2026: Key Dates to Know

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