Federal Authority for Government Human Resources has announced a five-day paid holiday for public sector employees in observance of Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha.
According to the announcement:
- The holiday will begin on Monday, May 25
- Public sector offices will remain closed through Friday, May 29
- Official work will resume on Monday, June 1
- Dhu Al Hijjah Moon Sighting Event Scheduled
Authorities in Dubai will hold a public moon-sighting event for the Dhu Al Hijjah crescent on May 17, 2026.
The event is being organized by the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department at the Jebel Nazwa Trail.
Event Details
- Date: Sunday, May 17, 2026
- Time: 5 pm until after sunset
- Purpose: Observation of the Dhu Al Hijjah crescent moon
Authorities expect strong public participation as crescent sighting remains an important Islamic tradition marking the beginning of the Hijri months.
Expected Start of Dhu Al Hijjah
Based on astronomical calculations:
- The first day of Dhu Al Hijjah is likely to fall on Monday, May 18
- The new moon is expected to be born on Sunday, May 17, at 12:01 am, UAE time
The forecast was shared by Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Emirates Astronomical Society.
Expected Eid Al Adha Dates
Eid Al Adha falls on the 10th day of Dhu Al Hijjah in the Islamic lunar calendar.
Expected Dates
- Day of Arafah: Tuesday, May 26
- Eid Al Adha: Wednesday, May 27
However, final confirmation will depend on the official moon sighting announcement.
UAE Schools to Receive Extended Eid Break
Ministry of Education has confirmed that the midterm break for the third academic term will coincide with Eid Al Adha holidays.
- School Holiday Schedule
- Break duration: May 25 to May 29
- Applies to students, teachers, and administrative staff
- Classes will resume on Monday, June 1
Combined with weekends before and after the break, many students and staff are expected to enjoy a nine-day holiday.
Dubai Private Schools Holiday Dates
Private schools in Dubai will also observe Eid holidays from Monday, May 25, to Friday, May 29.
Under the unified academic calendar:
- Classes will restart on Monday, June 1
- The schedule aligns with the approved academic calendar for the current term
Sharjah Schools Confirm Eid Holidays
Sharjah Private Education Authority announced that private schools across Sharjah will observe Eid Al Adha holidays from May 25 to May 28.
- Sharjah School Schedule
- Holiday: Monday to Thursday, May 25-28
- Classes and administrative work resume: Monday, June 1
Including weekends, students in Sharjah are expected to receive a 10-day holiday break.
