Written ByMousree DasSenior Content Writer (Expertise - Health and Travel Insurance)

Reviewed ByRicha BansalBusiness Development Manager - Travel & Home Insurance

Last updated on 20 January 2026Editorial Standards

Regulatory credentials

Licensed by the Central Bank of the UAE (Registration No. 123)

Emirates Insurance Federation Membership No. B81

Information on this page is for general guidance only - not personalised financial or medical advice.

A Journey Through UAE Public Holidays 2026

The UAE public holiday law announced the official days off for 2026 for all emirates. These holiday dates are based on the Islamic Hijri and Gregorian calendars. As per the Hijri calendar, dates depend on the moon cycles. Thus, the exact dates for Eid Al Adha and Eid Al Fitr are yet to be confirmed.

Some of these holidays have extended long weekends, so you can enjoy the respective occasions and festivals by planning an outing with your family and friends.

A Full List of UAE Public Holidays 2026

The following is a complete UAE public holiday list for 2026–

List of Holidays	Date	Day
New Year’s Day	January 1	Thursday
Eid Al- Fitr	March 20- March 22	Friday- Sunday
Arafat Day	May 26	Tuesday
Eid Al-Adha	May 26- May 29	Tuesday- Friday
Islamic New Year	June 16	Tuesday
Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday	August 25	Tuesday
Commemoration Day	November 30	Monday
UAE National Day	December 2- December 3	Wednesday- Thursday

New Year

As we step into 2026, the UAE celebrates its new year with fireworks, celebrations, and gatherings. With loads of hope and possibilities, this year brings togetherness, gratitude, and love among all.

Eid Al-Fitr

Eid Al-Fitr is all about family togetherness and heartfelt generosity. It reflects the country’s spirit of unity, compassion, and cultural harmony.

Arafat Day

Arafat Day is the most important day of the Hajj pilgrimage. This day signifies a deep spiritual meaning in Islam as it symbolises faith, patience, and immense divine mercy. People gather at Mount Arafat to offer prayers.

Eid Al-Adha

Eid Al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, celebrates kindness and strong community bonds. It is all about the act of obedience towards the Islamic society. People wear new clothes and offer special prayers on this day. Post this, friends and family gather and enjoy festive meals.

Islamic New Year

The Islamic New Year is the beginning of the Islamic Lunar Calendar. The first day of the year starts with Muharram. On this day, people offer prayers, welcome positivity, and move forward with faith and spiritual renewal.

Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday

Prophet Muhammad’s birthday is an auspicious day in Islam. People celebrate this joyous occasion with spirituality. They honour the Prophet’s teachings of peace and mercy.

Commemoration Day

Commemoration Day, also known as Martyrs’ Day, falls on November 30. It is a heartfelt tribute to Emiratis who served in the military services and sacrificed their lives for the country. The day unites the country in remembrance, gratitude, and pride.

UAE National Day

The nation’s birth year, the UAE National Day, is celebrated on December 2. The country celebrates its culture, heritage, and leadership. Several cultural events, parades, and fireworks are hosted across all Emirates.

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