Mark your calendars: Long weekends in 2026 worth planning your leave around.
Dubai: For those planning their holidays and aiming to maximise annual leave, the UAE’s 2026 public holiday calendar offers multiple chances to turn a few days off into extended breaks.
While Eid Al Fitr often takes the spotlight, there are several other long weekends throughout the year to look forward to.
How the UAE’s public holiday transfer rule works
According to the UAE Cabinet’s resolution on public holidays, certain holidays that fall mid-week can be shifted to the start or end of the working week, allowing for a continuous stretch of days off.
This effectively converts what might have been a single day off into a long weekend. However, it’s important to note that this transfer rule does not apply to Eid holidays.
Although the exact dates of some Islamic holidays depend on moon sightings and cannot be confirmed in advance, it is possible to estimate when Hijri calendar-based holidays are likely to occur.
Long weekends to look forward to in 2026
Eid Al Fitr – Late March
The UAE has outlined two possible scenarios for the private sector Eid Al Fitr holiday. If Ramadan lasts 29 days, the holiday will run from March 19 to 21. If Ramadan extends to 30 days, the break will include March 22, as the 30th day of Ramadan is recognised as an official holiday under the Cabinet resolution.
In either case, private sector employees can enjoy a four-day break, as the holiday coincides with the Saturday–Sunday weekend.
Eid Al Adha – Late May to Early June
Arafat Day, observed on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, is one of the holiest days in the Islamic calendar and a public holiday in the UAE. It is followed by Eid Al Adha, which spans three additional days (Dhul Hijjah 10–12).
Subject to moon sighting, the anticipated dates for this holiday are Tuesday, May 26 to Friday, May 29. When combined with the Saturday–Sunday weekend, this could create a six-day consecutive break, making Eid Al Adha potentially the longest official holiday of 2026.
Hijri New Year – Mid-June
The Islamic New Year falls on the first day of Muharram. Depending on moon sighting, the likely date is Tuesday, June 16 or Wednesday, June 17, 2026. Depending on its placement and whether the transfer rule applies, this could result in a long weekend at the start or end of the working week.
Prophet’s Birthday – Late August
The birthday of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is observed on the 12th of Rabi Al Awwal. Based on moon sighting, the expected date is Tuesday, August 25, 2026. Since this falls mid-week, the transfer rule may extend the break for employees.
Eid Al Etihad (UAE National Day) – December
Eid Al Etihad falls on December 2 and 3, which are Wednesday and Thursday. Combined with the Friday–Saturday weekend, this creates a potential four-day break for employees.
Tips for maximising UAE public holidays
Strategically planning annual leave around public holidays can help you extend your time off throughout the year. Mid-week holidays where the transfer rule applies are particularly valuable, as they allow you to create long weekends with minimal leave days used.
Note: Dates for Islamic holidays are subject to moon sighting and may shift by a day. Always refer to official UAE government announcements for confirmed dates closer to the holiday.
