UAE Celebrates Long Weekends in 2026

UAE Holidays 2026: Long Weekends, Six-Day Breaks and Effects of New Regulation

The new decree that came into force at the beginning of 2025 in the United Arab Emirates fundamentally changed the handling of public holidays. The essence of the regulation is that certain public holidays, which fall in the middle of the week, can be officially moved to the beginning or end of the week. This allows residents to enjoy longer, uninterrupted rest periods—be it religious holidays or national commemorations. The change was first applied to the 2025 Eid Al Etihad holiday, and its effects were immediately noticeable: the usual two-day public holiday became a four-day long weekend.

This practice will be even more prominent in 2026, as several holidays fall in such a way that, according to the new regulation, they can be moved to allow a four-day or even a six-day long weekend for residents. This system not only supports workers' relaxation but also provides a positive impulse to domestic tourism, hospitality, and leisure industries.

New Year 2026: The First Long Weekend of the Year?

The year 2026 begins on Thursday, January 1. The first day of the year is an official holiday in the UAE, and if the cabinet decides to move the holiday to Friday, January 2, citizens and residents could kick off the new year with a three-day long weekend. The decision, of course, depends on an official announcement, but under the new system, it is considered a realistic possibility.

Eid Al Fitr: The Celebration After the Fast

Eid Al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, bringing a three-day holiday—lasting from the 1st to the 3rd of Shawwal according to the Islamic calendar. In 2026, based on astronomical calculations, the holiday is expected from Friday to Sunday, March 20–22. Since the date depends on the lunar phase, the final timing will only be determined during that period. However, it is certain that residents can expect a three-day weekend.

This holiday cannot be moved, so it is always celebrated on the actual lunar calendar days.

Day of Arafah and Eid Al Adha: The Longest Official Break of the Year

The Day of Arafah, on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, is one of the most sacred days in Islam. It is followed by Eid Al Adha, which adds three more public holiday days (Dhul Hijjah 10–12). In 2026, the holiday is expected from Tuesday, May 26 to Friday, May 29, which could lead to a six-day break including Saturday and Sunday. This will be the longest official holiday period in 2026, which does not require any relocation—the dates naturally align favorably.

Hijri New Year: A Fresh Start Early in the Month

The Islamic New Year falls on the first day of the Muharram month, expected to be on Tuesday, June 16 in 2026. This holiday can be relocated, meaning if the cabinet decides, it can be moved to Friday, providing a three-day weekend for residents. The final decision also depends on an official announcement, but the possibility is available.

Prophet's Birthday: Spiritual Remembrance and Rest

The Prophet's Birthday is celebrated on the 12th of the Rabi Al Awwal month, expected on Tuesday, August 25 in 2026. This day can also be moved, and if it is relocated to Friday, UAE residents can enjoy another long weekend. The decision is in the hands of the official bodies, but the legal framework allows flexible planning.

Eid Al Etihad – National Day of the UAE

The 55th National Day of the Emirates falls on December 2 and 3, 2026, which are Wednesday and Thursday. According to the new regulation, these holidays can be officially moved, for instance, to December 1 and 2 (Monday and Tuesday). This step could extend the holiday from November 29 to December 2, providing a four-day break for those who have Saturday-Sunday weekends.

This relocation mechanism not only serves to honor the given holiday but also creates well-planned, economically effective periods.

What Does This Mean for Residents and the Economy?

The prospect of long weekends not only serves residents' comfort but also positively impacts domestic tourism, hospitality, family programs, and workplace balance. Companies can plan ahead, and workers can truly relax if they know when to expect longer breaks. Additionally, many seize the opportunity for domestic travel, wellness programs, or family events.

The new system gives the government the flexibility to best align holidays with public needs and economic cycles. While religious holidays determined by the lunar calendar still depend on current moon observations, there is much greater room for maneuver with national holidays and relocatable occasions, which the new regulation wisely utilizes.

Closing Thoughts

Looking forward to 2026, it is clear that the conscious planning of holidays is crucial for well-being, healthy work-life balance, and economic stimulation. The United Arab Emirates demonstrates exemplary flexibility and modern thinking in this aspect: valuing the past and the comfort of the present go hand in hand. Thus, the new holiday calendar not only signifies dates—but also opportunities for rest, connection, and new experiences.

(Source of article based on new law effective early 2025.)