When is Eid in UAE? Exact Dates, Public Holidays & Complete Guide
When is Eid in UAE?
When is Eid in UAE? Eid Al Fitr falls on Thursday, March 19 OR Friday, March 20 (subject to moon sighting). Either way, UAE residents are guaranteed a 4-day long weekend from March 19–22. Eid Al Adha begins on Wednesday, May 27, preceded by Arafat Day on May 26 — creating a potential 6-day break from May 26–31 when the weekend is included. Both dates are subject to official UAE moon sighting confirmation.
When is Eid Al Fitr in UAE?
Eid Al Fitr in the UAE has two possible start dates — both resulting in a 4-day long weekend for residents. If Ramadan lasts 30 days, Eid is expected to begin on Friday, March 20, with public holidays running from Friday to Sunday. If Ramadan lasts 29 days, Eid would likely begin on Thursday, March 19, with official holidays running Thursday to Saturday.
Regardless of which scenario plays out, UAE residents are due for a long weekend at the end of the holy month. According to a UAE Cabinet resolution, “If the month of Ramadan completes 30 days, day 30 of Ramadan shall be deemed an official holiday added to the Eid Al Fitr holiday.”
Eid Al Fitr — Two Possible Scenarios
| Scenario | Ramadan Duration | Eid Al Fitr Start | Official Holidays | Weekend Included | Total Break |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scenario A | 29 days | Thursday, March 19 | March 19–21 | Sunday, March 22 | 4 days |
| Scenario B | 30 days | Friday, March 20 | March 20–22 | Sunday, March 22 | 4 days |
✅ Bottom line: No matter which scenario plays out, UAE residents get a guaranteed 4-day Eid Al Fitr break. The moon sighting on Wednesday, March 18 will determine the exact start date.
When Will the Official Eid Al Fitr Date Be Confirmed?
The final dates will depend on the sighting of the Shawwal crescent, which is assessed by official moon-sighting committees on the 29th day of Ramadan — , that falls on March 18. The UAE moon-sighting committee typically announces the official date on the evening of the 29th day, with confirmation broadcast on UAE state television and official government channels within hours.
When is Eid Al Adha in UAE?
Eid Al Adha is expected to deliver one of the longest public holiday breaks. According to the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department’s (IACAD) official holiday calendar, Arafat Day is expected to fall on Tuesday, May 26, with Eid Al Adha beginning on Wednesday, May 27.
The Eid Al Adha holiday would then roll into Wednesday May 27, Thursday May 28, and Friday May 29. When combined with the weekend, the Eid Al Adha holiday will be a six-day-long weekend.
Eid Al Adha Break — Day by Day
| Date | Day | What It Is |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday, May 26 | Arafat Day (Hajj Day) | Official public holiday |
| Wednesday, May 27 | Eid Al Adha — Day 1 | Official public holiday |
| Thursday, May 28 | Eid Al Adha — Day 2 | Official public holiday |
| Friday, May 29 | Eid Al Adha — Day 3 | Official public holiday |
| Saturday, May 30 | Weekend | Regular weekend |
| Sunday, May 31 | Weekend | Regular weekend |
| Monday, June 1 | — | Return to work |
🎉 6-day break: If predictions hold, Eid Al Adha will be the longest public holiday break of the year — six consecutive days off for UAE residents from Tuesday, May 26 to Sunday, May 31.
UAE Eid Public Holiday Dates — Full Table
| Holiday | Expected Dates | Days Off | Subject to Moon Sighting? | Transferable? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eid Al Fitr | March 19–22 OR March 20–22 | 3 official days + weekend = 4 days | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Arafat Day (Hajj Day) | Tuesday, May 26 | 1 day | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Eid Al Adha | May 27–29 | 3 official days | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
How Many Days Off for Eid in UAE? {#days-off}
Eid Al Fitr Days Off
Eid Al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and offers three days of official holiday (Shawwal 1 to 3). The likely dates are Friday, March 20, to Sunday, March 22, giving residents a three-day weekend. With the Saturday–Sunday UAE weekend included, this becomes a 4-day break regardless of whether Eid starts Thursday or Friday.
Eid Al Adha Days Off
Arafat Day, observed on Dhul Hijjah 9, is a public holiday in the UAE. It is followed by Eid Al Adha, which provides three additional days of holiday (Dhul Hijjah 10–12). The likely dates are Tuesday, May 26, to Friday, May 29. When combined with the Saturday–Sunday weekend, this could result in six consecutive days off — the longest expected break.
Private Sector vs Public Sector — Same Eid Holidays?
Yes. Both the public sector (federal government employees) and the private sector (company employees) receive the same Eid holidays in the UAE. The days off for Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha apply equally to all workers across the country, regardless of employer type. This is mandated under UAE federal labour law.
How is the Eid Date Decided in UAE?
Unlike some other public holidays in the UAE, Eid dates cannot be shifted to create longer weekends. They are fixed according to the Islamic lunar calendar and confirmed by moon sighting.
Here is how the moon sighting process works in the UAE:
- Astronomical predictions are made months in advance by bodies including Dubai’s IACAD — these give residents a good idea of expected dates but are not official
- The UAE moon-sighting committee convenes on the 29th day of the current Islamic month (Ramadan for Eid Al Fitr, Dhul Qadah for Eid Al Adha)
- Committee members and registered observers look for the crescent moon (Hilal) after sunset
- If the crescent is sighted, the next day is declared Eid by official announcement
- If the crescent is not sighted, the current month completes its 30th day, and Eid is the day after
- The official announcement is made on UAE state television and through government communication channels on the evening of the 29th day
- Eid is typically declared nationally — all seven emirates observe the same Eid date as confirmed by the UAE committee
📱 How to get the official announcement: Follow the UAE Government’s official social media accounts, UAE state TV channels (Abu Dhabi TV, Dubai TV), and the IACAD website for real-time moon sighting confirmation.
Eid Al Fitr vs Eid Al Adha — What’s the Difference?
Many residents, especially newcomers and expats in the UAE, wonder why there are two Eids and what makes them different. Here’s a clear comparison:
| Feature | 🌙 Eid Al Fitr | 🐑 Eid Al Adha |
|---|---|---|
| Arabic meaning | “Festival of Breaking the Fast” | “Festival of Sacrifice” |
| When it occurs | End of Ramadan (9th Islamic month) | End of Hajj pilgrimage (12th Islamic month) |
| UAE date | March 19–22 | May 26–31 (incl. Arafat Day + weekend) |
| Duration in UAE | 3 official days | 4 official days (incl. Arafat Day) |
| What it marks | Completion of a month of fasting | Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son |
| Key practice | Zakat Al Fitr (charity), family visits, new clothes | Qurbani (animal sacrifice), distributing meat to the needy |
| Morning ritual | Eid prayer at mosque | Eid prayer at mosque |
| Common food | Sweet dishes, dates, sheer khurma | Grilled meats, mansaf, biryani |
| Common greeting | “Eid Mubarak” / “Eid Sa’id” | “Eid Mubarak” / “Eid Sa’id” |
| Which is considered more sacred? | Both are major — Eid Al Adha is called the “Greater Eid” |
What’s Open and Closed During Eid in UAE?
One of the most practical questions for UAE residents during Eid is: what can I access? Here’s what to expect:
8 Things to Know About Eid in UAE
- Malls and Shopping Centres — Open, and often with extended hours. Eid is one of the busiest shopping periods of the year across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and all emirates
- Restaurants and Cafes — Open. Most restaurants operate normal or extended hours, with special Eid brunch offers widely available
- Dubai Metro & Public Transport — Open, often with extended hours during Eid. The RTA typically announces special holiday schedules
- Government Offices and Banks — Closed during official Eid holiday days. Some may have a skeleton staff or emergency services only
- Supermarkets — Open with regular or slightly reduced hours
- Hospitals and Pharmacies — Open 24/7. Emergency services are unaffected by Eid
- Airports — Fully operational. Eid is one of the busiest travel periods — book flights early
- Theme Parks and Attractions — Open, often with special Eid events, extended timings, and promotional pricing (Ski Dubai, IMG Worlds, Dubai Frame, etc.)
6 Tips for Expats and Non-Muslims During Eid in UAE
- Respect the celebration — greet Muslim colleagues, neighbours, and friends with “Eid Mubarak” (it is always appreciated and welcomed)
- Plan for traffic — major roads near mosques experience heavy congestion early on Eid morning during prayer time, usually between 5:30 and 8:00 AM
- Book restaurants in advance — popular spots fill up fast for Eid brunches, family dinners, and festive meals
- Expect fireworks — many areas of Dubai and Abu Dhabi feature public firework displays on Eid night, particularly around Yas Island, Downtown Dubai, and Dubai Creek
- Dress modestly in public — while the UAE is cosmopolitan and tolerant, showing sensitivity by dressing modestly in public during Eid is appreciated
- Enjoy the atmosphere — Eid in the UAE is a vibrant, joyful celebration with lights, decorations, special events, and a festive spirit across the whole country
Full UAE Public Holidays Calendar
UAE residents can expect a minimum of 12 official days off throughout the year, with Eid holidays accounting for the majority of those days.
| # | Holiday | Expected Date(s) | Days Off | Fixed or Lunar? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New Year’s Day | Thursday, January 1 | 1 day | Fixed (Gregorian) |
| 2 | Eid Al Fitr | March 19–22 (est.) | 3 days | Lunar (moon sighting) |
| 3 | Arafat Day (Hajj Day) | Tuesday, May 26 (est.) | 1 day | Lunar (moon sighting) |
| 4 | Eid Al Adha | May 27–29 (est.) | 3 days | Lunar (moon sighting) |
| 5 | Islamic New Year | Tuesday, June 16 (est.) | 1 day | Lunar (moon sighting) |
| 6 | Prophet’s Birthday | Tuesday, August 25 (est.) | 1 day | Lunar (moon sighting) |
| 7 | UAE National Day | December 2–3 | 2 days | Fixed (Gregorian) |
| TOTAL | 12 official days |
⚠️ Important: All lunar-based dates are subject to UAE moon sighting committee confirmation. Gregorian dates (New Year’s Day, National Day) are confirmed and fixed.
How to Maximize Your Annual Leave Around Eid
Smart planning around the Eid holidays can turn a short break into an extended vacation:
Around Eid Al Fitr (March)
Eid Al Fitr is predicted from Friday, March 20, to Sunday, March 22. Book March 16 off and return to work on Monday, March 23 — you’ll take five total days of annual leave and create a seven-day break.
Around Eid Al Adha (May–June)
Arafat Day is a one-day holiday and Eid Al Adha is a three-day holiday. Book Monday, May 25, off — you could have a nine-day break with only one day of annual leave by combining the weekend before and after.
Eid Traditions, Greetings & What to Expect in UAE
How is Eid Celebrated in UAE?
The UAE’s multicultural population brings a rich tapestry of Eid traditions. Here are the top 5 ways Eid is celebrated in the UAE:
- Eid Prayers — The day begins with congregation Eid prayers at mosques and open prayer grounds across all seven emirates, typically at sunrise. Major locations include Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi and Dubai’s Eid musallas
- Family Gatherings — Extended families come together for large festive meals. It is common to visit grandparents, relatives, and neighbours to exchange greetings and gifts
- Eidi (Gift-Giving) — Children traditionally receive Eidi (monetary gifts or presents) from older relatives during Eid visits
- Fireworks & Public Events — The UAE government and private sector organise major public firework displays, cultural shows, and entertainment events across the emirates during Eid
- Charity and Giving — Zakat Al Fitr (for Eid Al Fitr) is a mandatory charitable contribution made before Eid prayers. Food baskets and charity donations to workers, labourers, and low-income families are also widespread during both Eids
What Do You Say to Someone on Eid in UAE?
The two most common and universally accepted Eid greetings in the UAE are:
- “Eid Mubarak” (عيد مبارك) — meaning “Blessed Eid” — used by everyone, widely understood in English and Arabic
- “Eid Sa’id” (عيد سعيد) — meaning “Happy Eid” — slightly more formal
Both greetings are appropriate for Muslims and non-Muslims to use when wishing friends, colleagues, and neighbours. Responding with “Eid Mubarak” or “Shukran” (thank you) is equally appropriate.
FAQ’s: People Also Ask About Eid in UAE
When is Eid Al Fitr in UAE?
Eid Al Fitr in the UAE will begin on Thursday, March 19 — regardless of whether the day is the 30th day of Ramadan or the first day of Shawwal, the holiday will begin on Thursday, March 19. The exact end date depends on moon sighting, but UAE residents are guaranteed a 4-day long weekend from March 19–22.
When is Eid Al Adha in UAE?
Eid Al Adha falls on Wednesday, May 27. Preceded by Arafat Day (Hajj Day) on Tuesday, May 26, and followed by the weekend, UAE residents can expect a 6-day break from May 26 to May 31.
How many days is Eid holiday in UAE?
Eid Al Fitr is a 4-day break (3 official + 1 weekend day). Eid Al Adha is a 6-day break (4 official days including Arafat Day + 2 weekend days). Both the public and private sector receive the same Eid holiday entitlement under UAE federal law.
Is Eid a public holiday in UAE for private sector employees?
Yes. Both Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha are official public holidays for all employees in the UAE — public sector and private sector alike. The number of days off is the same for both sectors and is mandated under UAE federal labour law. Employers cannot reduce Eid holidays.
How is the Eid date decided in UAE?
The Eid date in the UAE is decided by the official UAE moon-sighting committee, which convenes on the 29th day of the relevant Islamic month. If the crescent moon (Hilal) is sighted after sunset, Eid is declared for the next day. If not, the month extends one more day. The committee’s decision is announced on UAE state television and applies to all seven emirates.
What is the difference between Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha?
Eid Al Fitr celebrates the end of Ramadan (the fasting month) and involves paying Zakat Al Fitr charity before prayers. Eid Al Adha commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son and coincides with the Hajj pilgrimage — it involves animal sacrifice (Qurbani) and distributing meat to the needy. Both are 3-day public holidays in the UAE, plus Arafat Day for Eid Al Adha.
What time do people wake up for Eid in UAE?
Eid prayers in the UAE typically begin between 5:30 AM and 7:00 AM, depending on the emirate and mosque. Most worshippers wake before dawn (Fajr time) to prepare — shower, wear new or clean clothes, eat a light meal (Suhoor-style), and arrive at the mosque or Eid prayer ground before the congregation prayer begins.
What is open during Eid holiday in UAE?
Malls, restaurants, cafes, supermarkets, hospitals, pharmacies, airports, theme parks, and public transport all remain open during Eid. Government offices, banks, and many corporate businesses close on official Eid days. Entertainment venues often have extended hours and special Eid programming.
Can you eat in public during Eid in UAE?
Yes. Unlike Ramadan (during which eating, drinking, and smoking in public during fasting hours is restricted), there are no restrictions on eating or drinking in public during Eid. Eid is a celebration — restaurants, cafes, and public spaces are all fully operational and welcoming.
What do you say to someone on Eid in UAE?
The most widely used greetings are “Eid Mubarak” (Blessed Eid) and “Eid Sa’id” (Happy Eid). Both are appropriate for Muslims and non-Muslims to use. These greetings are universally understood across the UAE’s diverse population, regardless of the language or culture of the recipient.
Do schools close for Eid in UAE?
Yes. All schools in the UAE — public and private — close during official Eid public holidays. Both Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha school closures are mandated by the Ministry of Education and apply to all schools across the country, including international schools.
How long is Eid holiday for private sector in UAE?
Private sector employees receive the same Eid holidays as the public sector: 3 official days for Eid Al Fitr (March 20–22) and 4 official days for Eid Al Adha + Arafat Day (May 26–29). Including weekends, this translates to a 4-day break for Eid Al Fitr and a 6-day break for Eid Al Adha.
Final Summary: Eid in UAE at a Glance
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Eid Al Fitr Start Date | Thursday, March 19 (confirmed) or Friday, March 20 |
| Eid Al Fitr Holiday Duration | 4-day break: March 19–22 |
| Eid Al Adha Start Date | Wednesday, May 27 (predicted) |
| Arafat Day | Tuesday, May 26 (predicted) |
| Eid Al Adha Holiday Duration | 6-day break: May 26–31 (incl. weekend) |
| How dates are confirmed | UAE official moon-sighting committee |
| Applies to private sector? | Yes — same holidays for all employees |
| Eid greeting | “Eid Mubarak” or “Eid Sa’id” |
| Total UAE public holidays | Minimum 12 official days |
| Official announcement channel | UAE state TV, IACAD, UAE Government social media |
Last Updated: Eid dates are based on astronomical predictions from Dubai’s Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) and leading UAE media sources including Gulf News, Khaleej Times, and Time Out Dubai. All Islamic holiday dates are subject to official UAE moon-sighting committee confirmation. Always verify final dates via official UAE government channels.
