The UAE Cabinet announced earlier this year that there will be a minimum of 12 public holidays in 2026, subject to official moon sightings.
Following the New Year’s Day break on Thursday, January 1, 2026, for both the public and private sectors, many are now wondering which public holiday comes next.
When is the Next UAE Public Holiday?
The next public holiday in the UAE for 2026 will be Eid Al Fitr, one of the most eagerly awaited celebrations each year in Dubai.
Eid Al Fitr marks the conclusion of a month of fasting observed by Muslims worldwide during Ramadan. In the UAE, it is recognised as an official public holiday, running from Ramadan 30 (if Ramadan lasts 30 days) until Shawwal 3 on the Islamic Hijri calendar.
Based on current astronomical forecasts, Eid Al Fitr is expected to begin on Friday, March 20, 2026.
This would likely result in a three-day weekend, with Friday, March 20; Saturday, March 21; and Sunday, March 22 anticipated as the first three days of Shawwal.
UAE Public Holidays in 2025
Here is a list of the public holidays observed in the UAE last year:
• New Year’s Day: Wednesday, January 1, 2025
Eid Al Fitr: Sunday, March 30 – Tuesday, April 1, 2025
• Arafat Day: Thursday, June 5, 2025
• Eid Al Adha: Friday, June 6 – Sunday, June 8, 2025
• Islamic New Year: Friday, June 27, 2025
•The Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (PBUH): Friday, September 5, 2025
• National Day: Monday, December 1 – Tuesday, December 2, 2025
