If you’re already eyeing your calendar and mentally planning that mini getaway, trust me, you’re not the only one. Eid Al Fitr is one of the most anticipated public holidays in the UAE. And in 2026, we can expect a long weekend depending on how the moon plays out. Here’s everything you need to know about the possible Eid Al Fitr dates in the UAE, and how you could end up with four days off!
Also Read: Your 2026 Ramadan Guide – Everything To Know From Shorter Work Hours, Dates, Rules & More
What Is Eid Al Fitr?
Eid Al Fitr is one of the two major festivals celebrated by Muslims worldwide. It marks the end of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, and the conclusion of a month of fasting. The name translates to ‘feast of breaking the fast’, and it falls on the first day of Shawwal, the tenth month in the Islamic Hijri calendar. In the UAE, Eid Al Fitr is an official public holiday lasting from Ramadan 30 until Shawwal 3.
When Is Eid Al Fitr 2026 In The UAE?
Eid Al Fitr 2026 is predicted to fall in March. However, because Islamic months are based on moon sightings, the exact dates depend on whether Sha’ban and Ramadan are 29 or 30 days long. There are four possible scenarios, and three of them could give you a four-day weekend.
Eid Al Fitr Dates – The Three Possible Scenarios
Scenario 1: Ramadan Begins 18 February 18 & Lasts 29 Days
If Ramadan starts on Wednesday, 18 February and runs for 29 days, Eid could begin on 19 March. This creates a four-day weekend when combined with the Sunday break.
Scenario 2: Ramadan Begins February 18 & Lasts 30 Days
If Ramadan starts on 18 February and lasts 30 days, the break would begin on Friday, 20 March (Ramadan 30). It will continue through Shawwal 3 and end on Monday, March 23. That means a four-day long weekend.
Scenario 3: Sha’ban And Ramadan Both Last 30 Days
If both months are 30 days, Shawwal 1 would fall on 21 March. The Eid break would still begin on Friday, 20 March and end on Monday, 23 March. This gives another four-day holiday stretch.
How Many Days Off Will We Get?
In the UAE, employees are guaranteed at least three days of leave for Eid Al Fitr. If Ramadan lasts 30 days, an extra day is added, creating a four-day weekend depending on the alignment of the dates.
When Will The Dates Be Confirmed?
While astronomical predictions provide a strong indication, the official dates are confirmed by the UAE’s moon-sighting committee closer to the time. For now, consider these projected dates.
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