By Staff Reporter
Millions across the UAE are preparing for the long Eid Al Adha 2026 holiday, with some residents set to enjoy up to nine consecutive days off depending on their sector and leave plans.
Eid Al Adha will begin after Arafat Day on Tuesday, May 26, with the Eid celebrations officially starting on Wednesday, May 27. The holiday period differs for public sector workers, private sector employees, and schools.
Private Sector Holiday Schedule
The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has announced a four-day paid holiday for private sector employees.
- Holiday begins: Tuesday, May 26 (Arafat Day)
- Holiday ends: Friday, May 29
- Work resumes: Monday, June 1
Employees who normally have weekends off on Saturday and Sunday will automatically receive a six-day break from May 26 to May 31.
Public Sector Employees to Enjoy 9-Day Break
The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) confirmed a longer break for public sector workers.
- Holiday begins: Monday, May 25
- Holiday ends: Friday, May 29
- Work resumes: Monday, June 1
With the weekends before and after the holiday included, government employees will enjoy a full nine-day break from May 23 to May 31.
Schools Also Receive Extended Holiday
The Ministry of Education (MOE) confirmed that the Eid Al Adha holiday will coincide with the third-term midterm break for schools.
Public and private schools across the UAE, including institutions under Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), will close from Monday, May 25 to Friday, May 29.
Classes will resume on Monday, June 1, giving students and teachers a nine-day holiday when weekends are included.
How Private Sector Workers Can Get 9 Days Off
Private sector employees can also enjoy a nine-day holiday by taking just one day of annual leave on Monday, May 25.
Here’s the breakdown:
- Saturday, May 23 – Weekend
- Sunday, May 24 – Weekend
- Monday, May 25 – Annual Leave
- Tuesday, May 26 – Arafat Day Holiday
- Wednesday, May 27 to Friday, May 29 – Eid Al Adha Holidays
- Saturday, May 30 to Sunday, May 31 – Weekend
By using one leave day strategically, private sector workers can match the extended public sector holiday.
