Planning a trip to the United Arab Emirates in 2026 for business or leisure? Navigating the country's diverse holiday calendar can be challenging. This comprehensive guide will help you understand UAE's public holidays—a blend of international celebrations and Islamic traditions—ensuring you can plan your itinerary effectively while respecting local customs.
1. New Year's Day
Date: January 1, 2026 (Thursday)
Type: National holiday
As a global celebration, New Year's Day is widely observed in the UAE with fireworks displays and concerts across major cities.
Travel tip: Expect higher hotel rates and airfares; book accommodations well in advance and anticipate heavy traffic.
2. Leilat al-Meiraj (The Night Journey)
Date: January 16, 2026 (Friday)
Type: Islamic observance
This religious holiday commemorates the Prophet Muhammad's night journey. While not a public holiday, many Muslims engage in prayer and reflection.
Travel tip: Some businesses may close early; plan evening activities accordingly.
3. Ramadan Begins
Date: February 18, 2026 (Wednesday)
The holiest month in Islam sees Muslims fasting from dawn to sunset. Non-Muslims should respect local customs by refraining from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.
Travel tip: Many restaurants operate limited hours until sunset when elaborate iftar meals are served.
4. Eid al-Fitr
Date: March 20-22, 2026 (Friday-Sunday)
Type: National holiday
This major Islamic festival marks the end of Ramadan with family gatherings, new clothes, and festive meals.
Travel tip: Many businesses close for several days; book transportation and accommodations early as this is peak travel time for residents.
5. March Equinox
Date: March 20, 2026 (Friday)
While not a public holiday, the spring equinox brings pleasant weather ideal for outdoor activities like desert safaris and beach excursions.
6. Hajj Season Begins
Date: May 18, 2026 (Monday)
The annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca affects travel patterns regionally.
Travel tip: Expect increased demand for flights to Saudi Arabia and potential regional transportation impacts.
7. Eid al-Adha
Date: May 26-28, 2026 (Tuesday-Thursday)
Type: National holiday
This "Festival of Sacrifice" commemorates Abraham's devotion with charitable meat distribution.
Travel tip: Similar to Eid al-Fitr, anticipate business closures and plan accordingly.
8. Islamic New Year (Al-Hijra)
Date: June 17, 2026 (Wednesday)
Type: National holiday
Marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar with religious observances.
9. June Solstice
Date: June 21, 2026 (Sunday)
Summer's arrival brings extreme heat—stay hydrated and limit midday outdoor activities.
10. Prophet's Birthday (Mouloud)
Date: August 26, 2026 (Wednesday)
Type: National holiday
Celebrations honor the birth of the Prophet Muhammad.
11. September Equinox
Date: September 23, 2026 (Wednesday)
Pleasant autumn weather returns, ideal for outdoor exploration.
12. Commemoration Day
Date: November 30, 2026 (Monday)
Honors Emirati martyrs with nationwide memorial events.
13. National Day
Date: December 2-3, 2026 (Wednesday-Thursday)
Type: National holiday
Celebrates UAE's founding with spectacular fireworks, parades, and cultural events.
Travel tip: Book early for this peak travel period marked by patriotic celebrations.
14. December Solstice
Date: December 22, 2026 (Tuesday)
Mild winter conditions create optimal sightseeing weather.
15. New Year's Eve
Date: December 31, 2026 (Thursday)
Major cities host extravagant countdown celebrations with fireworks and concerts.
Travel tip: Premium hotel packages sell out quickly for this global celebration.
With this complete guide to UAE's 2026 holiday calendar, you can strategically plan business engagements or leisure activities while respecting cultural traditions and avoiding peak travel periods.