UAE Public Holidays in 2026: What to Expect and How to Plan

As 2026 approaches, many residents, expats and frequent travelers are already thinking ahead. Public holidays play a major role in planning vacations, family gatherings, staycations and work schedules. The UAE’s holiday calendar is a blend of Islamic observances and national occasions, making it important to understand how each fits into the year.

This post breaks down the key holidays expected in 2026 and how they may affect your plans.

Understanding How UAE Holidays Are Determined

The UAE follows both the Gregorian and Hijri calendars. Islamic holidays are based on the lunar Hijri calendar, which means dates can shift depending on moon sightings. Even though official confirmations come closer to the actual dates, projected timelines are widely used for planning.

This makes early reference guides extremely valuable for residents and travelers.

Islamic Holidays in 2026

Islamic holidays carry significant cultural and religious importance in the UAE. While the exact dates may slightly adjust, the expected structure for 2026 includes:

Eid Al Fitr

Marking the end of Ramadan, this holiday typically brings several days off. It’s one of the busiest travel periods of the year, both within the UAE and internationally.

Arafat Day

Observed during the Hajj pilgrimage, this is one of the most meaningful days in the Islamic calendar.

Eid Al Adha

Following Arafat Day, Eid Al Adha often leads to an extended public holiday period, making it another prime time for travel.

Islamic New Year

This day marks the beginning of the Hijri year and is observed nationwide.

The Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday

A significant day of reflection and celebration across the country.

National Holidays in 2026

In addition to Islamic holidays, the UAE celebrates major national events that highlight its heritage and history.

Commemoration Day

A day dedicated to honoring the sacrifices of Emirati martyrs. It is observed with nationwide ceremonies.

UAE National Day

One of the most festive days of the year, National Day celebrates the formation of the UAE. Expect fireworks, events and vibrant celebrations across all emirates.

Why These Holidays Matter for Planning

Knowing the public holiday schedule early can help you:

• Plan vacations or long weekends

• Make school and family arrangements

• Prepare for peak travel seasons

• Schedule work deadlines and projects

• Avoid last-minute price spikes in flights and hotels

Public holidays often influence everything from hotel rates to traffic patterns, so having a clear view of the year is a real advantage.

Tips for Making the Most of UAE Holidays

• Book travel early: Holiday weeks fill up fast, especially around Eid.

• Watch for official announcements: Final dates are confirmed closer to the holidays.

• Use long weekends smartly: Many UAE holidays naturally create perfect mini-breaks.

• Plan around school calendars: Families especially benefit from matching holiday timing with school breaks.

Conclusion

The UAE’s 2026 public holiday lineup offers many opportunities for rest, travel and celebration. Whether you’re organizing a vacation or simply planning your time more efficiently, having a reliable guide makes all the difference.

For the full list of expected dates and a clear breakdown, you can refer to the complete resource here:https://247emiratesguides.org/uae-public-holidays-2026/