Dubai, UAE- The UAE Fatwa Council has officially confirmed the dates for Eid Al Adha 2026 following the sighting and announcement marking the beginning of the month of Dhu al-Hijjah on Monday, May 18. According to the announcement, the Day of Arafah will be observed on Tuesday, May 26, while Eid Al Adha celebrations across the UAE will commence on Wednesday, May 27. The occasion, one of the most significant festivals in the Islamic calendar, commemorates the values of sacrifice, faith, compassion, and unity.
As per the current public holiday schedule, federal government and public sector employees are expected to enjoy an extended break from Monday, May 25 until Friday, May 29, creating a long holiday period that is likely to boost travel, hospitality, retail, and tourism activities across the Emirates. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) is expected to announce the official private sector holiday dates shortly, in line with the UAE’s unified public and private holiday policy introduced in recent years.
Authorities are also expected to intensify preparations for increased movement at airports, shopping malls, tourist destinations, and places of worship during the festive period. Eid Al Adha prayers will be held across mosques and designated prayer grounds nationwide, while charitable initiatives and community programmes are anticipated to play a major role during the celebrations. Travel experts are already reporting strong demand for regional and international holiday bookings as residents plan family vacations around the extended break.
