The various public holidays in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) give the citizens and individuals who visit the nation a lot of chances to merge the vacations with family life, cultural activities, and religious practices. Knowledge of UAE public holidays is also a vital aspect that must be understood by the reader, since it aids the reader in planning their work schedules to accommodate the time they have off.
In this blog, I will present you with an in-depth overview of the eight national holidays in the UAE in 2026, their importance, and the ways you can maximize them.
1. Eid Al-Fitr
Date: 30 March (Sunday)
Duration: 5 Days
The evening of the Festival of Breaking the fast, called Eid Al-Fitr, is the time when Ramadan finishes, and Muslims conclude their period of spiritual fasting. Citizens across the UAE are very eager to join this significant Islamic festival.
What to Expect:
- Family Gatherings: The celebration involves families having meals together during prayer sessions.
- Charity (Zakat Al-Fitr): People who practice Zakat Al-Fitr charity normally do it before attending the Eid prayers.
- Festive Atmosphere: The malls, parks, and common areas are adorned, and special events are held.
Tips for You:
- You always need to pre-plan your visits to businesses, as such businesses tend to be on shorter schedules.
- It is still good manners to take a little gift for your guest when you are invited to an Eid party.
2. Arafaat Day
Date: 5 June (Thursday)
Duration: 1 Day
Arafaat Day is a religious practice observed by religious people on the ninth day of Dhu Al-Hijjah. This Islamic month happens when the new moon is seen. The period of gathering in the plains of Arafat is a critical one to Muslims who come to Mecca since they desire to pray and seek forgiveness.
What to Expect:
- Religious Observance: During this season, most UAE Muslims prefer to practice the religious obligation of fasting and praying.
- Quiet Atmosphere: The day is devoted to calm thinking, along with religious thinking.
Tips for You:
- You are supposed to demonstrate respect on the spiritual significance that defines this day.
- Unless you are observing the fast, you should not eat or drink in broad daylight.
3. Eid Al-Adha
Date: 6 June (Friday)
Duration: 3 Days
UAE people celebrate Eid Al-Adha, which means the Festival of Sacrifice, to commemorate the time when Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) demonstrated his religious faith when he offered to kill his son. This is one of the major holidays during every Islamic festival.
What to Expect:
- Sacrificial Rituals: Sacrifices are made to animals, and the animal meat is shared with the family, friends, as well as the needy.
- Family Celebrations: As is the case during Eid Al-Fitr, individuals hold family gatherings where they get to pray and eat together.
- Public Events: The spectacular events during such occasions involve fireworks exhibitions together with cultural performances, as well as special offers (temporarily).
Tips for You:
- An Eid Al-Adha party will likely be a large feast with a great number of attendees.
- You are supposed to make the right arrangements in view of the limited business activities.
4. Islamic New Year
Date: 26 June (Thursday)
Duration: 1 Day
The Islamic New Year, which is the Islamic New Year, is the first day of the Hijra year. At this period, individuals are supposed to reflect on their successes in the past and set new goals.
What to Expect:
- Religious Observance: Diversified religious prayers will be embraced by many Muslims, accompanied by sermons during this event.
- Cultural Events: It is a time point of events marked by cultural events organized by particular bodies that celebrate the occasion.
Tips for You:
- This day is used by the Muslim community to learn more about the Islamic culture and traditions.
- In the course of this event, individuals celebrate at a lower mark than when the Eid celebrations are in progress.
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5. Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (Mawlid Al-Nabi)
Date: 5 September (Friday)
Duration: 1 Day
Mawlid Al-Nabi is the special day that reminds the day of the birthday of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Mawlid Al-Nabi is a significant religious occasion whose cultural significance is an anniversary festival.
What to Expect:
- Religious Gatherings: Mosques and community centers will be used to conduct events and lectures.
- Decorations: The streets as well as houses are decorated since houses are also hung with lights and banners during the time of the holiday.
Tips for You:
- Lectures and cultural exhibitions are some of the activities that people studying the Islamic historical background.
- During this event, you must show reverence for the Islamic religious heritage.
6. Commemoration Day
Date: 30 November (Sunday)
Duration: 1 Day
Commemoration Day, or Martyrs’ Day, is a day of remembrance of the Emirati martyrs who died as servants of the country.
What to Expect:
- Official Ceremonies: In the official ceremonies, the UAE flag is brought down to half-mast, and the important ceremonies honor those martyred in the service of the country in the military.
- Moments of Silence: There is one minute of silence at 11.30 AM throughout the country.
Tips for You:
- Take some time to reflect on the sacrifices that the martyrs made to the country.
- You need to be part of local ceremonies that are celebrating special events that pay honor to national heroes.
7. UAE National Day
Date: 2 December (Tuesday)
Duration: 1 Day
On the 2nd of December 1971, the seven united Emirates became a single nation, and the UAE National Day is a commemoration of this historical event. During this day, national pride is celebrated alongside national celebrations in the country.
What to Expect:
- Fireworks and Parades: Grand shows are held in the country.
- Cultural Events: Emirati culture incorporates local music with dancing as well as exhibitions of the native heritage.
- Decorations: UAE flag and national colors are painted on buildings, streets, and cars.
Tips for You:
- Residents are able to attend the festivities, which involve a gathering or watching fireworks.
- It is easy to express national pride with the help of wearing the traditional UAE national colors.
8. New Year’s Eve
Date: 1 January (Monday)
Duration: 1 Day
New Year’s Eve is widely celebrated throughout the United Arab Emirates, especially in cities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, even though it is not considered an Islamic or national holiday.
What to Expect:
- Fireworks and Parties: The Burj Khalifa and other iconic landmarks hold glorious fireworks shows on the parties.
- Luxury Dining: Special luxury dining events that are accompanied by festive menus are very popular in different restaurants.
Tips for You:
- You can reserve your tickets or bookings early enough for the event.
- Your house can be used to enjoy a peaceful stay before the fireworks shows.
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Final Thoughts
The United Arab Emirates has 2026 planned public holidays that form a significant combination of religious rituals and cultural traditions, national celebrations, and traditional holidays. The UAE residents and visitors will have a chance to experience the colorful cultural heritage and the spirit of the UAE’s active life during these public holidays.
With planning and knowing the importance of every holiday, you will be able to make the most of your stay in this vibrant country.
