Mark your calendars (and maybe start drafting that leave email), because the UAE just dropped the official Eid Al Fitr holiday dates — and yes, it’s time to start mentally packing for that well-deserved break.
The UAE Federal Authority for Government Human Resources and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation have made it official: Eid Al Fitr 2026 holidays are locked in… well, almost (we’ll get to the moon drama in a second).
So, When’s the Break?
For federal government employees, the holiday kicks off on Thursday, March 19, 2026, and runs through Sunday, March 22, 2026. Back to reality on Monday, March 23. Four full days. Not bad at all.
For the private sector, it’s from Thursday, March 19, to Saturday, March 21, 2026. If you’re someone who works Sundays, sorry — it’s back to business on March 22.
BUT (because there’s always a but), if Ramadan completes 30 days, private sector employees will also get Sunday, March 22 off. Translation? Keep your fingers crossed for that extra day.
Wait… But When Is Eid Actually?
Ah yes, the classic moon-sighting suspense.
In the UAE, the moon-sighting committee will meet on March 18 — the 29th day of Ramadan — to look for the tiny crescent moon that signals the start of Shawwal and the beginning of Eid.
Here’s how it plays out:
- Moon sighted on March 18 evening?
Ramadan ends that day, and Eid begins on March 19. - Moon not sighted?
Ramadan completes 30 days, fasting continues on March 19, and Eid starts on March 20.
It’s all part of the Islamic lunar calendar, where months begin with the sighting of the new crescent moon. Yes, it’s spiritual. Yes, it’s traditional. And yes, it keeps us all slightly on edge every year.
Can You Turn This Into a 9-Day Holiday? Oh Absolutely.
Now here’s where things get interesting.
If you strategically request annual leave from Monday to Thursday, March 16–19, you could potentially enjoy nine glorious days off — from Saturday, March 14, through Sunday, March 22.
Nine. Whole. Days.
That’s long enough to:
- Plan a staycation.
- Finally take that short-haul trip.
- Or simply master the art of doing absolutely nothing.
We support all options equally.
The Eid Vibes Are Already Starting
Even though we’re still in Ramadan, the signs are everywhere.
Tailors? Fully booked. Some have already stopped taking new orders for Eid outfits (if you haven’t sorted yours yet… good luck).
Shops? Restocking like it’s a festive marathon.
Neighbourhoods? Buzzing with that quiet, excited energy that only Eid brings.
Because Eid Al Fitr isn’t just a holiday — it’s that beautiful moment of togetherness after a month of reflection, discipline, and spiritual reset. It’s family lunches that turn into five-hour gatherings. It’s “just one sweet” that becomes five. It’s kids collecting Eidi like little CEOs on payday.
So whether you’re counting down for the spiritual celebration, the family time, or the extended sleep schedule, one thing’s clear: Eid 2026 is already shaping up to be a good one.
