Residents of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) still have several public holidays to look forward to in the remainder of 2026, offering opportunities for long weekends, family gatherings, travel, and national celebrations.
Following the completion of the year's major Islamic holidays, attention has shifted to the remaining official breaks on the UAE calendar. While some dates are fixed, others remain subject to moon sightings and official government announcements.
Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year)
The next major public holiday is the Islamic New Year, which marks the beginning of the Hijri calendar. UAE authorities have indicated that the holiday is expected to fall in mid-June, with some reports suggesting that holiday-transfer rules could create a long weekend for workers in both the public and private sectors.
Prophet Muhammad's Birthday
Another significant holiday expected later in the year is the commemoration of the Prophet Muhammad's Birthday (Mawlid Al Nabawi). The observance is anticipated to take place in August, although the final date remains subject to official confirmation and moon sighting procedures. Some projections indicate the holiday could be moved to the beginning of the workweek under UAE holiday-transfer regulations.
UAE National Day (Eid Al Etihad)
One of the most anticipated celebrations of the year is UAE National Day, also known as Eid Al Etihad. The holiday commemorates the formation of the federation and is scheduled for December 2 and December 3. The occasion is typically marked by fireworks displays, cultural events, concerts, parades, and nationwide celebrations.
One of the most anticipated celebrations of the year is UAE National Day, also known as Eid Al Etihad. The holiday commemorates the formation of the federation and is scheduled for December 2 and December 3. The occasion is typically marked by fireworks displays, cultural events, concerts, parades, and nationwide celebrations.
One of the most anticipated celebrations of the year is UAE National Day, also known as Eid Al Etihad. The holiday commemorates the formation of the federation and is scheduled for December 2 and December 3. The occasion is typically marked by fireworks displays, cultural events, concerts, parades, and nationwide celebrations.
Based on current official calendars and projections, the remaining public holidays are:
Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year) β June 2026.
Prophet Muhammad's Birthday β August 2026.
UAE National Day (Eid Al Etihad) β December 2β3, 2026.
Long Weekend Opportunities
Travel experts note that several of the remaining holidays could create extended weekends due to the UAE's holiday-transfer policy, which allows certain holidays to be moved to the beginning or end of the working week. This has made 2026 an attractive year for residents planning short vacations and family trips.
Awaiting Official Confirmation
Authorities have reminded residents that dates tied to the Islamic calendar remain subject to moon sightings and official government announcements. As a result, the final schedule for some holidays may differ slightly from current projections.
With several holidays still ahead before the end of the year, UAE residents can look forward to additional opportunities for rest, celebration, and travel as 2026 progresses.
