UAE Announces Eid Al Fitr 2026 Holidays for Public and Private Sectors

The United Arab Emirates has officially announced the Eid Al Fitr 2026 holiday schedule for both government and private sector employees.

The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation confirmed the dates in a joint announcement.

For employees working in federal government entities, the Eid holiday will begin on Thursday, March 19, 2026, and continue until Sunday, March 22, 2026. Official work will resume on Monday, March 23, 2026.

Private sector employees will observe the holiday from Thursday, March 19, 2026, to Saturday, March 21, 2026. However, authorities clarified that if Ramadan lasts 30 days, the private sector break will be extended to Sunday, March 22, 2026.

The decision applies across the UAE and follows the country’s established public holiday guidelines.

Possibility of a 9-Day Break

Employees looking to extend their time off may be able to enjoy a longer holiday with careful planning. By applying for annual leave from Monday to Thursday, March 16–19, workers could potentially enjoy a nine-day break from Saturday, March 14, through Sunday, March 22, including weekends and Eid holidays.

Moon-Sighting to Determine Final Date

In the UAE, the official moon-sighting committee will meet on the 29th day of Ramadan, corresponding to March 18, to look for the crescent moon that marks the beginning of Shawwal.

If the crescent is sighted on the evening of March 18, Ramadan will conclude that day and Eid Al Fitr will begin on March 19. If the moon is not sighted, Ramadan will complete 30 days, meaning fasting will continue on March 19 and Eid will begin on March 20.

The announcement comes as preparations for Eid celebrations are already underway across the country, with shops stocking festive goods and families planning gatherings for the holiday that marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan.