UAE announces Eid Al Fitr 2026 holiday for public, private sector employees

The United Arab Emirates has officially confirmed the upcoming Shawwal celebration dates, granting residents ample time to prepare for the festivities that mark the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

Official Directives for Emirates statutory leave

The official announcements give an appropriate pattern of both official and independent workforce. To make it clear, the UAE Government Portal is consistent in updating these rules according to the lunar observations.

Public Sector Allowances

Federal Authority of Government Human Resources (FAHR) reported that government employees will be on their break on Thursday, March 19, till Sunday, March 22, 2026. On Monday, March 23, normal operations will be resumed.

Private Sector Allowances

In the case of independent companies, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) assured that the workers will be off between March 19 and March 21. However, if Ramadan completes 30 days, this Emirates statutory leave automatically extends to include Sunday, March 22.

Planning for the Shawwal celebration dates

Since Islamic Hijri calendar is based on moon sightings, it is the UAE Moon-sighting committee that confirms the 30 days of Ramadan period. This is a provisional recommendation that families and businesses should use when planning their get-togethers and their working schedules.

FAQs

1. When does the Eid break officially begin in the UAE for 2026?

The holiday officially begins on Thursday, March 19, 2026, for both government and independent workers.

2. Will independent business employees receive a four-day weekend?

Independent business workers will receive a four-day break (extending to March 22) only if the holy month of Ramadan lasts for 30 days.

3. Who is responsible for announcing these official dates?

The schedules are jointly determined and announced by the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).