UAE residents are likely to get one of the longest breaks of the year in May 2026, as Arafah Day and Eid Al Adha are expected to create an extended public holiday.
Arafah Day, observed on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah in the Islamic calendar, is one of the holiest days in Islam and is marked as a public holiday in the UAE. It is usually followed by the three-day Eid Al Adha celebrations. As with all Islamic holidays, the exact dates depend on the moon sighting.
In 2026, Arafah Day is expected to fall on Tuesday, May 26. Eid Al Adha is expected to follow from Wednesday, May 27, to Friday, May 29, as approved by the UAE Cabinet. Combined with the weekend, this is likely to give residents a six-day break.
Those looking to extend the holiday further may consider taking one day of annual leave on Monday, May 25. This would make it possible to get up to nine consecutive days off when combined with the weekends before and after.
Residents should confirm the official holiday dates closer to the time, as they will be finalized based on the lunar calendar and moon sighting.
Predictions indicate that Dhu Al Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic calendar, is expected to begin on Monday, May 18.