The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources has confirmed a five-day paid holiday for public sector employees to mark Eid al-Adha and Day of Arafah. The holiday will begin on Monday, May 25, and continue until Friday, May 29, 2026. Government offices will reopen on Monday, June 1.
This announcement aligns with the UAE’s official holiday calendar and reflects preparations for one of the most significant Islamic festivals.
Moon sighting on May 17 to confirm Islamic calendar dates
Authorities in Dubai will organise a public moon-sighting event on May 17, 2026, to observe the crescent marking the start of Dhu al-Hijjah.
The event will take place at Jebel Nazwa Trail and will begin at 5 PM. Observers will continue until sunset to confirm the lunar cycle.
This traditional practice remains central to determining Islamic dates. As a result, final confirmations depend on physical moon sighting.
Expected Eid Al Adha 2026 dates based on astronomical calculations
According to Ibrahim Al Jarwan of the Emirates Astronomical Society, calculations suggest:
- The new moon will form on May 17, 2026
- Dhu al-Hijjah is likely to begin on May 18
- Day of Arafah may fall on May 26
- Eid al-Adha is expected to begin on May 27
However, authorities will issue final dates after the official moon sighting.
UAE schools to align holidays with Eid break
The Ministry of Education UAE has aligned the academic calendar with the Eid break.
Students, teachers, and administrative staff will also be on holiday from May 25 to May 29.
Because this period connects with adjacent weekends, many students will enjoy an extended nine-day break.
Dubai and Sharjah private schools announce schedules
Private schools in Dubai will follow the same holiday period from May 25 to May 29. Classes will resume on June 1.
Meanwhile, private schools in Sharjah will close from May 25 to May 28. When combined with weekends, students could receive up to a 10-day holiday.
Authorities across emirates have issued festive greetings as preparations intensify for the holiday period.
