Public Holidays in Abu Dhabi 2026 - Is shaping up to be an exciting year in Abu Dhabi and across the UAE, filled with public holidays, cultural celebrations, and long weekends you can plan for work breaks, travel, family time, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re living in the capital or visiting, here’s the ultimate calendar of official holidays you need to know — with accurate dates and tips on making the most of them.

📅 1. Public Holidays in Abu Dhabi 2026 - New Year’s Day — Thursday, January 1, 2026

Celebrate the start of 2026! This federal public holiday marks the beginning of the year. Many residents will enjoy a relaxed winter break, festive events, and holiday sales.

👉Public Holidays in Abu Dhabi 2026 Pro tip: Many employers may shift this to a Friday for a long weekend — plan ahead!

🌙 2. Eid Al Fitr — ~Friday, March 20 to Sunday, March 22, 2026

One of the most joyous occasions in the Islamic calendar, Eid Al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is expected to be a three-day public holiday (Shawwal 1–3).

Many families travel, host gatherings, or take short trips during this festive period.

🌅 3. Arafat Day & Eid Al Adha — ~Tuesday, May 26 to Friday, May 29, 2026

Eid Al Adha is one of the biggest holidays of the year and traditionally includes Arafat Day followed by several days of celebration.

• Arafat Day: ~Tuesday, May 26
• Eid Al Adha: ~Wednesday, May 27 to Friday, May 29

Combined with a weekend, this can create one of the longest 2026 breaks (often up to six days).

🌙 4. Islamic New Year — ~Tuesday, June 16, 2026

The Islamic New Year (1 Muharram) is expected to fall around Tuesday, June 16. Some employers may shift this to Monday, June 15 to create a long weekend.

This is a quieter holiday focused on reflection and community.

🕊️ 5. Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (PBUH) — ~Tuesday, August 25, 2026

Celebrating the Prophet’s (PBUH) birthday is another federal holiday observed across the UAE. It’s commonly moved to a Monday (August 24) to make a long weekend when possible.

🇦🇪 6. UAE National Day (Eid Al Etihad) — Wednesday & Thursday, December 2–3, 2026

The UAE’s National Day — called Eid Al Etihad — celebrates the founding of the United Arab Emirates. In 2026, it’s officially recognized on December 2 and 3, and often becomes a four-day long weekend with the weekend attached.

These celebrations are some of the most colorful and patriotic of the year, featuring fireworks, parades, free events, and cultural programs across the capital.

🧠 Public Holidays in Abu Dhabi 2026 Important Notes on Islamic Holidays

Islamic holidays in the UAE are determined by moon sighting and the Hijri calendar, so final dates are officially confirmed closer to each event (usually 24–48 hours beforehand).

That means:

• Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha may shift by a day depending on lunar observations.
• Other observances (Islamic New Year & Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday) follow the Hijri calendar and may vary slightly.

✨ Public Holidays in Abu Dhabi 2026 - How to Make the Most of 2026 Public Holidays

Here are some smart ways to plan around 2026 holidays:

📆 Extend your vacation by combining annual leave with holiday weekends.
✈️ Book early if travelling overseas (especially around Eid Al Adha).
🏙️ Explore Abu Dhabi staycations — from cultural trips to Saadiyat Island to desert escapes.
🎆 Celebrate locally with fireworks and special events (especially around New Year and National Day).
👨‍👩‍👧 Plan family gatherings during Eid and winter breaks.

🧳 Quick Reference: Public Holidays in Abu Dhabi 2026 (Predicted)

🧮 Total Public Holiday Days Off in Abu Dhabi – 2026

✅ Official Federal Public Holidays

🔢 Total Official Paid Days Off in 2026

👉 12 public holiday days

🎉 Final Thoughts

Public holidays in Abu Dhabi in 2026 bring a mix of tradition, culture, and celebration — from New Year festivities to Islamic holidays and the beloved UAE National Day. These days give residents and visitors alike the chance to travel, relax, celebrate, and spend quality time with loved ones.

Whether you’re planning staycations, overseas adventures, family gatherings, or cultural explorations, 2026’s holiday calendar offers plenty of opportunities. Just remember: for lunar-based holidays like Eid, official confirmation will come sooner to the date.