When Is the Next Holiday in the UAE? Here’s How to Make the Most of 2026’s Long Weekends
Back to work after ringing in the New Year? You’re not alone — and one of the UAE’s most searched questions right now is: “When is the next holiday?”
The good news: 2026 is packed with public holidays that promise long weekends, family getaways, and plenty of time to recharge. From Eid festivities to the UAE National Day, residents can look forward to a well-balanced year of work and rest.
Upcoming UAE Public Holidays in 2026
The UAE Cabinet designates official public holidays each year, with Islamic dates confirmed closer to the occasion. Based on forecasts, here’s the expected holiday schedule:
| Holiday | Expected Date(s) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | Jan 1 (Thursday) | Fixed Gregorian holiday |
| Eid Al Fitr | Shawwal 1–3 (Fri, Mar 20 – Sun, Mar 22) | 3-day weekend |
| Arafat Day | Dhu Al Hijjah 9 (Mon, May 25) | Precedes Eid Al Adha |
| Eid Al Adha | Dhu Al Hijjah 10–12 (Tue–Fri, May 26–29) | Up to 6-day break including weekend |
| Islamic New Year (Hijri 1448) | Jun 17 (Wednesday) | Likely midweek break |
| Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Birthday | Rabi Al Awwal 12 (Thursday, Sep 4) | Possible long weekend |
| UAE National Day (Eid Al Etihad) | Dec 2–3 (Wed–Thu) | National celebration; potential 4-day weekend |
Note: Islamic holidays follow the Hijri lunar calendar and may shift depending on moon sightings.
Long Weekends to Plan Ahead For
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Eid Al Fitr: Fri–Sun, March 20–22 (3 days)
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Eid Al Adha: Tue–Fri, May 26–29 (up to 6 days with weekend)
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Islamic New Year: Wed, June 17 (midweek breather)
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Prophet’s Birthday: Thu, Sep 4 (extend for a 3-day weekend)
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UAE National Day: Wed–Thu, Dec 2–3 (potential 4-day weekend)
Turn 9 Leave Days into 38 Days Off
Smart leave planning can maximize your downtime in 2026. By strategically pairing your annual leave with official holidays, you can turn a handful of leave days into extended breaks — perfect for international travel or family staycations.
For example:
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Add 1–2 leave days around Eid Al Adha for a week-long vacation.
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Take Friday and Sunday off around midweek holidays to create extended weekends.
School Holiday Dates to Note
If you’re planning family trips, aligning with school holidays helps maximize quality time:
MOE Curriculum Schools:
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Winter Break: Dec 15, 2025 – Jan 4, 2026
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Spring Break & Eid Al Fitr: Mar 16–29, 2026
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Mid-Term Break & Eid Al Adha: May 25–29, 2026
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Hijri New Year: Jun 17, 2026
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Summer Break: From Jul 18, 2026
Dubai Private Schools (KHDA):
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Winter Break: Dec 15 – Jan 5
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Spring Break: Mar 16–30
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End of Academic Year: Between Mar 3 and Mar 30, depending on the calendar
Plan Your 2026 Breaks Early
Whether you’re chasing cooler mountain weather in Fujairah, a desert escape in Al Ain, or a quick trip abroad, knowing your public holidays early helps you plan ahead and make the most of every long weekend.
Dubai’s travel agencies and airlines often offer special Eid and National Day packages, so booking early can also help secure better prices.
Tip: Combine official holidays with school breaks for maximum family time and minimal leave days.
