UAE announces holidays for Eid al-Fitr 2026

DUBAI: The United Arab Emirates has formally announced holidays for the public and private sectors on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr 2026, after which Eid preparations have begun across the country.

According to a statement issued by the authorities, all ministries, government agencies and public sector departments at the federal level will be closed from March 19 to March 22, 2026. Normal working hours in government offices will resume from Monday, March 23.

The Federal Authority for Public Human Resources, confirming the decision, said that the holidays will apply equally to all federal institutions so that employees can celebrate Eid al-Fitr with their families in a full manner. According to the authorities, this decision has been taken to facilitate the public on the occasion of Eid and to celebrate the festive festivities in an organized manner.

On the other hand, Eid holidays have also been announced for private sector employees. People working in private institutions will be given holidays from March 19 to March 21.

However, the relevant authorities explained that if the 30 days of Ramadan are completed, March 22 will also be included in the private sector holidays. In this case, private sector employees may also get four days off.

The authorities have instructed citizens and residents to plan their travel and family programs in advance in view of the holidays.

A significant increase in the number of people traveling within and outside the country is expected on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, which may lead to increased rush at airports, shopping malls and entertainment venues. Therefore, the relevant authorities have advised the public to prepare in time and take precautionary measures.

It should be noted that Eid-ul-Fitr is celebrated in the UAE according to the Islamic calendar and its final date depends on the sighting of the moon.

However, after the government announcement, millions of government and private sector employees will have the opportunity to celebrate Eid, which is expected to make the festive atmosphere across the country more pleasant.