The UAE has announced the official holiday dates for Eid Al Fitr 2026, giving workers across the country an extended weekend in March.
According to the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization, the Eid break will begin on Thursday, March 19.
For public sector employees, the holiday will run from Thursday to Sunday, March 19 to 22. Work will resume on Monday, March 23.
For private sector employees, the break will run from Thursday, March 19, to Saturday, March 21, if Ramadan lasts 29 days. If Ramadan completes 30 days, the holiday will extend to Sunday, March 22.
The final length of the holiday will depend on the official moon sighting.
The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation announce the Eid Al Fitr holiday for employees in federal government entities and the private sector. pic.twitter.com/2OaZ5ccYYc
— UAEGOV (@UAEmediaoffice) February 23, 2026
Moon Sighting to Confirm Final Date
The UAE’s moon-sighting decision will be made after sunset on the 29th day of Ramadan. The country follows the Islamic Hijri calendar, which is based on lunar cycles rather than the Gregorian calendar.
The UAE Council for Fatwa oversees the formation of the national moon-sighting committee. The committee typically includes senior government officials and religious scholars.
For a sighting to be considered valid, the moon must meet strict scientific conditions. It must be born before sunset, be separated from the sun by at least six degrees, be at least 12 hours old, and remain visible above the horizon for at least 20 minutes after sunset.
What Eid Al Fitr Marks
Eid Al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting. It begins on the first day of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic calendar.
Celebrations start with Eid prayers shortly after the dawn fajr prayer. The Eid prayer is followed by a sermon, and families gather to exchange greetings of “Eid Mubarak.” Many residents use the holiday to spend time with family, travel, or take short breaks.
Who is affected? All public and private sector workers in the UAE.
When does this matter? Beginning March 19, 2026, subject to moon confirmation.
Residents are advised to monitor official announcements after the 29th day of Ramadan for final confirmation of the holiday length.