Just like everyone else in the UAE, we’re still reliving the long weekend high. So while you were dreading the return to Monday blues, we’ve gone ahead and scoped out the next public holiday for you. Good news, Eid Al Adha is coming up, and it’s already shaping up to be a pretty solid break. How? We figured out how you can stretch it to make it an even longer break (spoiler: you might need to dip into a few annual leave days). So, whether you’re planning a getaway or another round of bed-rotting, keep reading for the little hacks you can use to maximise your next long weekend.
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The Story Behind Eid Al Adha
Eid Al Adha, also known as the ‘Festival of Sacrifice,’ is one of the most significant occasions in the Islamic calendar. It marks the end of the annual pilgrimage (Hajj) to Mecca and honours the story of Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering faith. According to tradition, Prophet Ibrahim was willing to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. Before the act could be carried out, a ram was provided instead, a moment that symbolises devotion, trust, and compassion. Today, the spirit of the festival lives on through acts of charity, family gatherings, and the sharing of food with loved ones and those in need.
When Is Eid Al Adha 2026
Based on current astronomical predictions, Eid Al Adha in 2026 is expected to begin around Tuesday, 26 May, starting with Arafat Day (Dhu Al Hijjah 9).
The holiday would then continue across:
- Tuesday, 26 May
- Wednesday, 27 May
- Thursday, 28 May
- Friday, 29 May
As always, exact dates will be confirmed closer to the time, depending on moon sightings.
How Long Is The Public Holiday?
If the predicted dates stay on track, UAE residents could enjoy a four-day public holiday from Tuesday to Friday. Add in the weekend, and you’re looking at a six-day break in total. That’s nearly a full week off, without even touching your annual leave!
The Tips You’ve Been Waiting For – How To Turn This Into A Long Weekend!
There are two ways to stretch your Eid Al Adha break. However, this depends on how many annual leave days you’re willing to use.
Option 1: Turn It Into A 9-Day Weekend
Based on the predicted Eid Al Adha dates, you already get:
- Tuesday, 26 May to Friday, 29 May off (public holiday)
- Plus the weekend, Saturday, 30 May and Sunday, 31 May
That’s already a 6-day break (26 – 31 May) without using any leave.
- Now, if you take just one extra day off from your annual leave, that is apply for Monday, 25 May, you’ll get Saturday, 23 May to Sunday, 31 May off
That’s a 9-day break using only 1 day of annual leave.
Option 2: Turn It Into A 16-Day Holiday
So you want to take it up a notch and enjoy a really long break? We’ve got you covered.
Apply for annual leave on:
- Monday, 18 May to Friday, 22 May (5 days)
- And Monday, 25 May (1 day)
This connects:
- Weekend: 16 – 17 May
- Your leave: 18 – 22 May
- Weekend: 23 – 24 May
- Public holiday + weekend: 25 – 31 May
That gives you
- 16 consecutive days off (16 – 31 May)
- Using only 6 days of annual leave
Already Planning Your Next Long Weekend Itinerary?
With six days (or more) on your hands, the options are wide open. You could plan a quick international getaway, explore nearby destinations, or keep things simple with a staycation right here in the UAE! If you’re not in the mood to travel far, this is also the perfect chance to finally tick off some of the exciting indoor attractions or just enjoy a slower pace with family and friends.
Eid Al Adha is set to be more than just a meaningful celebration. It’s also one of the best opportunities of the year to hit pause and recharge. So whether you’re planning an escape to a new country or a laid-back break at home, just a strategic little early planning can go a long way. And if you need some inspiration on things you could do during your extended weekend, keep following the official Gulf Buzz website.
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