UAE Public Holidays: How They Work

Updated 17 August 2026

The UAE observes a mix of fixed-date national holidays and Islamic holidays that shift each year with the lunar (Hijri) calendar. Official dates are announced by the government, sometimes close to the day, especially for moon-dependent occasions.

Fixed vs moving holidays

Some holidays fall on the same Gregorian date each year, such as New Year's Day, Commemoration Day and National Day. Islamic holidays — including Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, the Islamic New Year and the Prophet Muhammad's birthday — move earlier each year and depend on moon sighting, so exact dates are confirmed close to the time.

Private vs public sector

Holiday entitlements are generally aligned across the public and private sectors, and the government announces the official days. Long weekends are common when a holiday falls near a weekend.

Planning around holidays

Because some dates are confirmed late, keep travel plans flexible around Eid periods. Government offices, banks and some businesses adjust hours during holidays and during Ramadan, when working hours are often reduced.

Frequently asked questions

Why do Eid dates change every year?

Islamic holidays follow the lunar calendar, which is shorter than the Gregorian year, so they move about ten to eleven days earlier each year and are confirmed by moon sighting.

This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice. Rules, fees and eligibility change — always confirm the current details with official UAE government sources before acting.