When is the next holiday in the UAE? How to enjoy long weekends in 2026
Many people in the UAE are back at work after the New Year break and are already asking one big question: when is the next holiday?
The good news is that 2026 will have many public holidays in the UAE. These holidays are perfect for short trips, family visits, or simply resting at home. With a little planning, you can enjoy long weekends and even turn a few leave days into a long break.
Here is a simple guide to UAE public holidays in 2026 and how to make the most of them.
UAE public holidays in 2026
Residents can expect at least 12 public holidays in 2026. Some dates are based on the Islamic calendar, so final dates will be confirmed closer to the time.
Expected holidays include:
- January 1: New Year’s Day
- Shawwal 1 to 3: Eid Al Fitr
- Dhu Al Hijjah 9: Arafat Day
- Dhu Al Hijjah 10 to 12: Eid Al Adha
- Muharram 1: Islamic New Year
- Rabi Al Awwal 12: Prophet Muhammad’s birthday (PBUH)
- December 2 and 3: Eid Al Etihad, UAE National Day
Long weekends to look forward to
Some holidays in 2026 can give you long weekends without taking many leave days.
- Eid Al Fitr is expected to fall from Friday, March 20, to Sunday, March 22. This gives a three-day weekend.
- Eid Al Adha is expected from Tuesday, May 26, to Friday, May 29. When combined with the weekend, this could give up to six days off.
- Eid Al Etihad on December 2 and 3 falls in the middle of the week. This could turn into a longer break if leave days are added.
Also Read: Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha 2026 dates in UAE: Long weekends and public holidays explained
Please note that Islamic holidays depend on moon sightings, so dates may change. Turn a few leave days into a long break
With smart planning, you can turn just 9 leave days into as many as 38 days off in 2026. By taking leave before or after public holidays, you can enjoy longer breaks without using too many leave days.
This is a great way to plan holidays, visit family, or relax without rushing.
How UAE holidays are decided
Some holidays follow fixed dates, such as New Year’s Day and National Day. These stay the same every year. Islamic holidays follow the Hijri calendar, so their dates change each year. In some cases, holidays may be moved to create long weekends, except for Eid holidays.
School holidays to keep in mind
If you have children, school holidays are also important when planning trips.
- For MOE curriculum schools, winter break runs from December 15, 2025, to January 4, 2026.
- Spring break and Eid Al Fitr holidays are from March 16 to 29, 2026.
- Mid-term break and Eid Al Adha holidays are from May 25 to 29, 2026.
- Islamic New Year holiday is expected on June 17, 2026.
- Summer break starts from July 18, 2026.
- For Dubai private schools, winter break is from December 15 to January 5.
- Spring break is from March 16 to 30.
- The school year ends either on March 3 or March 30, depending on the school calendar.
Plan early and enjoy 2026
Knowing the UAE public holidays in advance helps you plan better. Whether you want a long weekend, a family trip, or quiet time at home, planning ahead will help you enjoy every break in 2026.
