The dates for Eid al-Fitr 2026 in the UAE have been confirmed
The UAE has today announced the official dates for Eid al-Fitr, confirming the already expected four-day long weekend.
The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation announced that the break will start on Thursday, 19 March, for both public and private sectors.
For public sector workers, the break will finish on Sunday, 22 March. For private sector employees, the break will end on Saturday, March 21, if Ramadan is 29 days; or last until Sunday, March 22, if Ramadan is 30 days.
Since Sunday is part of the official weekend in the UAE and a day off for a lot of private sector employees, this will mean a four-day weekend for most.
The end of Ramadan is still not confirmed, as this will be determined by the UAE Moon-sighting committee only after sunset on the 29th day of Ramadan.
FAHR, MoHRE announce Eid Al Fitr holiday for federal government and private sector employees #WamNews pic.twitter.com/MwDFDQzdh7
— WAM English (@WAMNEWS_ENG) February 23, 2026
The decision will be based on the lunar observations of the committee, who need to make sure the moon follows a set of conditions – including being born before sunset and being visible above the horizon for at least 20 minutes after sunset.
You might also like: The essential dos and don’ts guide during Ramadan in Abu Dhabi
If you need a reminder, the Islamic Hijri calendar is based on the Moon cycles, unlike the Gregorian calendar. Each Hijri month only begins after the new crescent moon has been sighted.
What is Eid al-Fitr?
Eid al-Fitr is one of the two major religious celebrations observed by Muslims around the world. It begins on the first day of Shawwal, the tenth month of the Islamic calendar, marking the end of Ramadan.
The festivities start with a special Eid prayer held shortly after the dawn (Fajr) prayer and continue for three days. Following the prayer, a sermon is delivered, and worshippers greet one another with “Eid Mubarak”. The occasion offers a meaningful opportunity for people to connect, exchange well wishes, and spend time with family, friends, and neighbours.
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