Ramadan has commenced in the UAE, bringing adjusted working hours and shifts in daily routines. Although the holy month has only just begun, many residents are already planning ahead for the first major public holiday of the year, as Eid Al Fitr traditionally offers one of the most anticipated long weekends on the calendar.
Under the UAE’s official public holiday schedule, Eid Al Fitr is observed from Shawwal 1 to Shawwal 3, providing three non-transferable days off. Based on current astronomical projections, the holiday is expected to fall between March 20 and March 22, 2026. However, the final dates will be confirmed only after the official moon-sighting process at the end of Ramadan.
The length of the break will depend on when the Shawwal crescent is sighted. If the moon is observed on March 18, Eid would likely begin on March 19, potentially resulting in a four-day weekend when combined with the regular weekend. If Ramadan completes 30 days and the crescent is not sighted until later, Eid would begin on March 20, leading to a three-day public holiday.
Residents looking to maximise their time off may consider aligning annual leave with the expected Eid dates. Strategic leave planning around the projected holiday window could extend the break significantly, depending on the confirmed start date.
It is important to note that these dates remain provisional. The UAE’s official Moon-Sighting Committee will announce the confirmed start of Shawwal closer to the end of Ramadan, determining the exact Eid Al Fitr holiday schedule.
