When is Eid in Dubai? Dates, Long Weekends, Events & Complete Guide
When is Eid in Dubai? Eid Al Fitr in Dubai begins on Thursday, March 19 OR Friday, March 20 — both scenarios deliver a guaranteed 4-day long weekend (March 19–22). The moon-sighting committee announces the official date on March 18. Eid Al Adha starts Wednesday, May 27, preceded by Arafat Day on May 26, creating a 6-day break from May 26–31 including the weekend.
When is Eid Al Fitr in Dubai?
Eid Al Fitr in Dubai is confirmed to begin on Thursday, March 19. — regardless of whether Ramadan lasts 29 or 30 days. This is now certain following the UAE Moon Sighting Committee’s confirmation that Ramadan started on Wednesday, February 18, making March 19 the guaranteed start of the Eid holiday under UAE Cabinet Resolution rules.
The Eid Al Fitr break begins on either Ramadan 30 or Shawwal 1. Regardless of whether Thursday March 19 is the 30th day of Ramadan or the first day of Shawwal, the holiday will begin on Thursday March 19.
Eid Al Fitr Dubai — Two Possible Scenarios
| Scenario | If Ramadan Is… | Eid Start | Official Holiday Days | Weekend | Total Break |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scenario A | 29 days | Thursday, March 19 | Shawwal 1–3 (Mar 19–21) | Sunday, March 22 | 4 days |
| Scenario B | 30 days | Friday, March 20 | Ramadan 30 + Shawwal 1–3 (Mar 19–22) | Sunday, March 22 | 4 days |
✅ The certainty: Irrespective of when the moon is sighted, residents are due for a long weekend at the end of the holy month. According to a UAE Cabinet resolution, if Ramadan completes 30 days, day 30 of Ramadan shall be deemed an official holiday added to the Eid Al Fitr holiday.
📅 Moon sighting announcement: The official Eid Al Fitr date will be declared on the evening of Wednesday, March 18, by the UAE Moon Sighting Committee. Watch UAE state TV (Dubai TV, Abu Dhabi TV) or @RulersDubai on social media for the live announcement.
When is Eid Al Adha in Dubai?
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 holiday is expected to continue through Friday, May 29. When combined with the weekend on Saturday, May 30, and Sunday, May 31, UAE residents could enjoy a six-day break in total.
This makes Eid Al Adha the single longest public holiday break in Dubai.
Eid Al Adha Dubai — Day-by-Day
| Date | Day | Status | What Happens |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tue, May 26 | Arafat Day (Hajj Day) | 🔴 Official Holiday | Pilgrims on Mount Arafat; fasting recommended |
| Wed, May 27 | Eid Al Adha — Day 1 | 🔴 Official Holiday | Eid prayers, Qurbani begins, family visits |
| Thu, May 28 | Eid Al Adha — Day 2 | 🔴 Official Holiday | Continued celebrations, social visits |
| Fri, May 29 | Eid Al Adha — Day 3 | 🔴 Official Holiday | Final day of official Eid |
| Sat, May 30 | Weekend | ⚪ Weekend | Extended celebration |
| Sun, May 31 | Weekend | ⚪ Weekend | Rest before return to work |
| Mon, June 1 | — | ✅ Work resumes | Back to office |
Eid Dubai — Day-by-Day Holiday Breakdown
Eid Al Fitr (March 19–22)
| Date | Day | What to Expect in Dubai |
|---|---|---|
| Thu, March 19 | Eid Day 1 | Early Eid prayers at mosques; family visits; malls and restaurants open |
| Fri, March 20 | Eid Day 2 | Peak celebrations; fireworks at night; Dubai’s waterfront areas packed |
| Sat, March 21 | Eid Day 3 | Family gatherings; Global Village; beachside events |
| Sun, March 22 | Weekend | Final long weekend day; Wu-Tang Forever is scheduled at Coca-Cola Arena on Sunday March 22, with show time listed as 7:30 PM |
How Many Days Off for Eid in Dubai?
Eid Al Fitr — Days Off in Dubai
Dubai residents receive 3 official public holiday days for Eid Al Fitr (Shawwal 1–3), plus the Sunday weekend — creating a guaranteed 4-day long weekend in March. This applies equally to public and private sector employees across all of Dubai.
Eid Al Adha — Days Off in Dubai
The four-day break will begin on Dhu Al Hijjah 9 with Arafat Day before rolling into Dhu Al Hijjah 10, 11 and 12. The Eid Al Adha public holiday will begin on Tuesday May 26, with Arafat Day. The 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.
Private Sector vs Public Sector — Who Gets What?
Both the public sector (government employees) and private sector (company employees) receive identical Eid holiday entitlements in Dubai and across the UAE. Unlike other public holidays, the rules around shifting days off do not apply to Eid Al Adha and Eid Al Fitr. These dates are fixed to the Islamic calendar and cannot be transferred or moved, regardless of which day of the week they fall on.
How is the Eid Date Confirmed in Dubai?
Dubai follows a specific, centuries-old process to confirm Eid dates — overseen by official UAE authorities:
- Astronomical predictions are published months in advance by Dubai’s IACAD, giving residents early planning guidance — but these are not official
- The UAE Moon Sighting Committee (including members from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other emirates) convenes on the 29th day of the relevant Islamic month
- Licensed moon sighters scan the sky for the crescent (Hilal) after sunset across multiple UAE locations
- If the crescent is sighted, the committee formally declares Eid for the following day
- If the crescent is not sighted, the current Islamic month completes its 30th day and Eid follows the day after
- The official announcement is broadcast on UAE state television and through government communication channels on the evening of the 29th day
- All seven emirates observe the same Eid date — Dubai does not announce independently of the UAE committee
📱 Where to get the announcement first: Follow @UAEGOV, @DubaiMedia, Dubai TV’s Instagram, and the IACAD website. Announcements typically come between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM on moon-sighting night.
Eid Al Fitr vs Eid Al Adha — What’s the Difference?
| Feature | 🌙 Eid Al Fitr | 🐑 Eid Al Adha |
|---|---|---|
| Arabic meaning | “Festival of Breaking the Fast” | “Festival of Sacrifice” |
| What it marks | End of Ramadan fasting | Conclusion of Hajj pilgrimage; Prophet Ibrahim’s sacrifice |
| Dubai dates | March 19–22 (4-day break) | May 26–31 (6-day break incl. Arafat Day + weekend) |
| Official public holidays | 3 days | 4 days (incl. Arafat Day) |
| Key religious act | Zakat Al Fitr (charity before prayer) | Qurbani — animal sacrifice, meat shared with the needy |
| Morning ritual | Congregational Eid prayer at mosque | Congregational Eid prayer at mosque |
| Fasting on the day? | No — eating is encouraged | Fasting recommended on Arafat Day (May 26); Eid days no fasting |
| Common foods | Dates, sweet dishes, sheer khurma, biryani | Grilled meats, mansaf, ouzi, lamb biryani |
| Greeting | “Eid Mubarak” / “Eid Sa’id” | “Eid Mubarak” / “Eid Sa’id” |
| Also called | “Lesser Eid” | “Greater Eid” — considered more sacred |
Eid Prayer Locations in Dubai
Eid prayer times in Dubai for Eid Al Fitr will be announced closer to the date, but typically take place shortly after sunrise, around 5:30–6:00 AM. Eid prayers in Dubai are held at all mosques and designated outdoor prayer grounds (musallas). Major locations include Jumeirah Beach, Zabeel Park, Dubai Festival City, Jumeirah Mosque, and Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque. Arrive early as these locations fill up quickly.
Key Eid prayer spots in Dubai:
| Location | Type | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Zabeel Park Musalla | Open-air prayer ground | Very large |
| Jumeirah Mosque | Major mosque | Large |
| Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque | Iconic mosque (Al Safa) | Large |
| Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Mosque | Grand mosque | Large |
| Dubai Festival City Musalla | Open-air prayer ground | Large |
| Jumeirah Beach Open Musalla | Beachfront prayer ground | Very large |
Traffic note: Most neighbourhoods will follow the early-morning Eid prayer rhythm, so expect roads near large mosques to slow briefly around dawn, then clear quickly afterward. Road congestion near major mosques typically peaks from 5:00–7:30 AM on Eid morning, then clears fast.
What’s Open and Closed in Dubai During Eid?
🔴 CLOSED During Official Eid Days
- All government offices, ministries, and public services
- Banks and exchange houses (ATMs remain operational 24/7)
- Courts and government-linked service centres
- Most corporate offices and businesses (check with employer)
- Schools and universities (all levels, public and private)
🟢 OPEN During Eid in Dubai
| Venue / Service | Eid Status | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Shopping Malls | ✅ Open | Extended — often 10 AM to midnight or later |
| Restaurants & Cafes | ✅ Open | Extended, post-prayer opening; book in advance |
| Supermarkets (Carrefour, LuLu, Spinneys) | ✅ Open | Regular or slightly adjusted hours |
| Dubai Metro & RTA Transport | ✅ Open | Holiday schedule — often extended hours |
| Dubai Airport (DXB) | ✅ Open | Fully operational 24/7 |
| Hospitals & Clinics | ✅ Open | 24/7 emergency services unaffected |
| Pharmacies | ✅ Open | Most open; 24-hr pharmacies fully operational |
| Theme Parks & Attractions | ✅ Open | Extended hours; special Eid programming |
| Hotels | ✅ Open | Special Eid brunches and events |
| Beaches & Public Parks | ✅ Open | Peak-crowded — arrive early |
💡 Insider tip: Most major shopping malls operate with extended hours during Eid, often opening from 10 AM to midnight or later. Restaurants typically operate with special Eid hours, often opening later in the morning post-Eid prayer and extending late into the night. Reservations are highly recommended for popular restaurants.
Best Things to Do in Dubai During Eid
8 Must-Do Eid Experiences in Dubai
- Watch the Eid Fireworks — Dubai puts on spectacular fireworks displays during Eid nights, concentrated around Downtown Dubai (Burj Khalifa), Dubai Creek, JBR/Dubai Marina, and Yas Island. No tickets needed for most public displays — arrive early for good viewing spots
- Visit Global Village — Global Village remains the safest structured bet for fireworks during its season because it schedules fireworks on Friday and Saturday evenings at 9:00 PM. Entry typically starts from around AED 25 on weekdays and around AED 30 on weekends and public holidays.
- Eid Brunch at a Dubai Hotel — Hotels across Downtown, DIFC, Palm Jumeirah, and JBR run special Eid brunch packages. Book at least 1 week in advance as these sell out fast
- Dubai Mall & Fountain Show — Dubai Mall runs extended Eid hours and the Dubai Fountain performs multiple shows throughout the day. Free to watch from the waterfront promenade
- Explore Al Seef and Old Dubai — Dubai’s heritage waterfront near Al Fahidi is beautifully decorated during Eid. Dhow rides on Dubai Creek are a memorable Eid activity for families
- Desert Safari — Eid weekend is one of the most popular times for desert safaris from Dubai. Book at least 3–5 days in advance as all reputable operators sell out for the holiday weekend
- Attend a Concert or Event — Coca-Cola Arena’s City Walk location hosts major Eid events. Book first and build the dinner plan around the show time, not the other way around.
- Dubai Frame or Burj Khalifa — Both popular attractions offer Eid special packages. The view from Burj Khalifa on Eid night, with fireworks visible across the skyline, is an unforgettable experience
Dubai Metro & Transport During Eid
Dubai Metro and Tram operate on holiday schedules with extended hours during Eid. Based on previous Eid patterns, the RTA typically extends metro service by 1–2 hours on Eid nights (particularly Eid Day 1 and the night of fireworks). The RTA announces the official Eid metro schedule approximately 2–3 days before the holiday via @RTA_Dubai on social media and rta.ae.
Key Transport Tips for Eid in Dubai
- Use the metro wherever possible — traffic around Downtown, JBR, and major malls is extremely heavy on Eid evenings
- Avoid driving near mosques between 5:00 AM and 8:00 AM on Eid morning — heavy post-prayer traffic
- Book Careem/Uber in advance — surge pricing applies during Eid nights, especially post-fireworks
- Allow extra travel time — Eid weekend is one of Dubai’s busiest periods for road congestion
Dubai Fireworks & Events During Eid
Dubai’s Eid celebrations are world-class. Dubai is expected to mark Eid Al Fitr with a long weekend of fireworks, concerts, family attractions, and citywide dining.
Where to watch Eid fireworks in Dubai:
- Burj Khalifa / Downtown Dubai — spectacular backdrop, arrive 60–90 mins early for good spots on Emaar Promenade or The Dubai Fountain lakeside
- Global Village — scheduled fireworks Friday and Saturday nights at 9:00 PM
- Dubai Creek / Al Seef — traditional setting with fireworks over the water
- JBR / Dubai Marina — waterfront fireworks with beachside viewing
- Dubai Festival City — the IMAGINE laser and water show runs multiple slots nightly during Eid
⚠️ Traffic warning: If you drive from Sharjah or Ajman, leaving before late afternoon helps, because the inbound flow toward Dubai ramps up quickly. For a calmer return, leave just before the final show, or stay an extra 30–45 minutes and let the main wave clear.
How to Maximise Annual Leave Around Eid in Dubai {#annual-leave}
Smart Dubai residents can dramatically extend their Eid breaks with minimal annual leave:
Around Eid Al Fitr (March)
Eid Al Fitr runs from Thursday, March 19 to Sunday, March 22 — already a 4-day break with no annual leave required. To create a 7-day break, book Monday March 23, Tuesday March 24, and Wednesday March 25 as annual leave, returning to work on Thursday, March 26.
Around Eid Al Adha (May–June)
The Eid Al Adha break runs from Tuesday, May 26 to Sunday, May 31. By booking just Monday, May 25 as annual leave, you create a 7-day break starting Monday. If you can also take Monday, June 1, you extend to a full 8-day break with only 2 days of annual leave used.
Full Dubai Public Holidays Calendar
As outlined in the UAE public holiday law, there will be a minimum of 12 official days off throughout, with the Eid holidays accounting for the vast majority of those days.
| # | Holiday | Expected Dates | Days Off | Fixed or Lunar? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New Year’s Day | Thursday, January 1 | 1 | Fixed ✅ |
| 2 | Eid Al Fitr | March 19–22 (est.) | 3 official + weekend | 🌙 Lunar |
| 3 | Arafat Day | Tuesday, May 26 (est.) | 1 | 🌙 Lunar |
| 4 | Eid Al Adha | May 27–29 (est.) | 3 | 🌙 Lunar |
| 5 | Islamic New Year | Monday, June 15 (official day falls Tuesday June 16, moved to start of week) | 1 | 🌙 Lunar |
| 6 | Prophet’s Birthday | Monday, August 24 (official day falls Tuesday August 25, moved to start of week) | 1 | 🌙 Lunar |
| 7 | UAE National Day | December 2–3 | 2 | Fixed ✅ |
| TOTAL | 12 official days |
Eid Greetings, Traditions & Etiquette in Dubai
Top 5 Ways Eid is Celebrated in Dubai
- Congregational Eid prayer — the day begins at mosques and open prayer grounds across the city at sunrise; one of Dubai’s most moving communal experiences
- Family gatherings and home visits — extended families come together for large celebratory meals; visiting relatives and neighbours is central to Eid culture in Dubai
- Eidi gift-giving — children receive money gifts from older family members; gift exchanges are common among friends and neighbours
- Charitable giving (Zakat Al Fitr) — Zakat Al Fitr amount will be announced by UAE authorities closer to Ramadan, but it typically ranges from AED 20–25 per person. This charity must be paid before the Eid prayer.
- Public fireworks and citywide events — Dubai’s government and private sector put on some of the world’s most spectacular Eid celebrations, with pyrotechnics, cultural shows, and live entertainment across the city
6 Tips for Expats and Non-Muslims During Eid in Dubai
- Use the greeting — saying “Eid Mubarak” to Muslim colleagues, friends, and neighbours is always warmly received and deeply appreciated
- Dress modestly in public — while Dubai is cosmopolitan and tolerant, showing sensitivity with conservative dress during Eid prayer times is a mark of respect
- Plan for crowds — Dubai typically shifts into brunches, family visits, and mall meet-ups after Eid prayer, so plan a late breakfast and still catch attractions before peak afternoon crowds
- Book restaurants early — popular Eid brunch venues in Dubai fill up 2–3 weeks in advance; last-minute bookings during Eid are nearly impossible at top spots
- Expect morning road closures near mosques — prayer congregations near major mosques create temporary road closures early on Eid morning, typically clearing by 8:00 AM
- Enjoy the atmosphere — Eid in Dubai is genuinely magical — lights, decorations, families in traditional dress, and a city-wide festival spirit unlike any other time of year
What to Say on Eid in Dubai
| Greeting | Language | Meaning | Used By |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eid Mubarak (عيد مبارك) | Arabic | “Blessed Eid” | Everyone — most universal |
| Eid Sa’id (عيد سعيد) | Arabic | “Happy Eid” | Common formal greeting |
| Kull ‘am wa antum bikhair | Arabic | “May you be well every year” | Warm traditional response |
| Happy Eid | English | Direct translation | Widely understood in Dubai |
FAQ’s: People Also Ask About Eid in Dubai
When is Eid in Dubai?
Dubai celebrates two Eids i.e., Eid Al Fitr, which begins on Thursday, March 19, (subject to moon sighting on March 18), creating 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 6-day break from May 26 to May 31.
When is Eid Al Fitr in Dubai?
Eid Al Fitr in Dubai is confirmed to start on Thursday, March 19, regardless of moon sighting outcome. The UAE Cabinet Resolution ensures that if Ramadan runs 30 days, the 30th day becomes an additional holiday. The 4-day long weekend runs from Thursday, March 19 to Sunday, March 22.
When is Eid Al Adha in Dubai?
Eid Al Adha in Dubai begins on Wednesday, May 27, according to Dubai’s IACAD official calendar. Arafat Day on Tuesday, May 26 is also a public holiday. Combined with the Saturday–Sunday weekend, Dubai residents enjoy a 6-day break from May 26 to May 31.
How many days holiday is Eid in Dubai?
Eid Al Fitr gives Dubai residents a 4-day long weekend (March 19–22). Eid Al Adha gives a 6-day break (May 26–31 including Arafat Day and the weekend). Both public and private sector employees receive the same entitlement — these are non-transferable public holidays under UAE law.
Is Eid a public holiday in Dubai?
Yes. Both Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha are official public holidays in Dubai for all workers — government and private sector alike. They are mandated under UAE federal public holiday law and cannot be reduced, transferred, or substituted by employers. Schools, government offices, and banks close on all official Eid days.
How does Dubai confirm the Eid date?
The UAE Moon Sighting Committee, which includes members from Dubai and other emirates, meets on the 29th day of the relevant Islamic month. They look for the crescent moon after sunset. If sighted, Eid is declared for the next day. The official announcement is made on UAE state television — Dubai TV and Abu Dhabi TV — the same evening.
What time is Eid prayer in Dubai?
Eid prayer in Dubai typically begins between 5:30 AM and 6:30 AM, shortly after sunrise. The exact time depends on the sunrise on Eid morning and is announced by the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) 1–2 days before Eid. Prayers are held at all mosques and open musallas across Dubai, including Zabeel Park and Jumeirah Beach.
What is open in Dubai during Eid?
Malls, restaurants, supermarkets, theme parks, beaches, airports, hospitals, and public transport all operate during Eid — often with extended hours. Government offices, banks, schools, and most corporate offices close on official Eid days. Dubai Mall, Global Village, and Burj Khalifa are open with special Eid programming and extended timings.
Can you eat in public during Eid in Dubai?
Yes, absolutely. Unlike Ramadan (when eating in public during fasting hours is restricted), there are no restrictions on eating, drinking, or smoking in public during Eid in Dubai. Eid is a celebration — restaurants, cafes, and public spaces are fully operational, welcoming, and encouraged.
What do you say to someone during Eid in Dubai?
Say “Eid Mubarak” (Blessed Eid) — this is universally understood and appreciated by everyone in Dubai, Muslim or not. “Eid Sa’id” (Happy Eid) is another widely used greeting. Both are appropriate for residents and tourists to use when wishing colleagues, friends, drivers, and shopkeepers during the holiday.
Do schools in Dubai close for Eid?
Yes. All schools in Dubai — public and private, including international schools — close during official Eid public holidays. Closures for both Eid Al Fitr (March 19–22) and Eid Al Adha (May 26–31) are mandated by the UAE Ministry of Education and the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) for Dubai.
Is there a fireworks show in Dubai for Eid?
Yes. Dubai traditionally marks Eid with major public fireworks displays. Key locations include Burj Khalifa/Downtown Dubai, Dubai Creek, JBR/Dubai Marina, and Global Village. Most public fireworks are free to watch. The Dubai Media Office and @VisitDubai social media channels announce official fireworks timings 1–2 days before Eid.
Final At-a-Glance Summary: Eid in Dubai
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Eid Al Fitr Dubai Start | Thursday, March 19 (confirmed) |
| Eid Al Fitr Break Duration | 4-day weekend: March 19–22 |
| Moon Sighting Decision Night | Wednesday, March 18 |
| Eid Al Adha Dubai Start | Wednesday, May 27 (predicted) |
| Arafat Day | Tuesday, May 26 |
| Eid Al Adha Break Duration | 6-day break: May 26–31 (incl. weekend) |
| Private Sector Included? | Yes — same holidays for all employees |
| What’s open during Eid? | Malls, restaurants, transport, airports, hospitals |
| What’s closed during Eid? | Government offices, banks, schools |
| Eid prayer time in Dubai | ~5:30–6:30 AM at mosques and open musallas |
| Eid greeting | “Eid Mubarak” or “Eid Sa’id” |
| Fireworks in Dubai | Yes — Burj Khalifa, Creek, JBR, Global Village |
| Total UAE public holidays | Minimum 12 official days |
| Official announcement channel | UAE state TV, IACAD, @UAEGOV, @DubaiMedia |
Last Updated: February 20. All Eid dates are based on live data from Time Out Dubai, Gulf News, Khaleej Times, and Dubai’s IACAD — verified within the last 48 hours. Lunar holiday dates are subject to official UAE Moon Sighting Committee confirmation. Always verify final dates via official channels closer to the time.
