Eid Al Fitr is one of the biggest holidays that Muslims celebrate around the world. It is a festival to mark the end of Ramadan, which is the holy fasting month. It is the time to pray, fast, and gather with the family. In Dubai, the government will give you an official holiday in the public and private sectors to observe the event.
Confirmed Eid Al Fitr Holiday Dates in Dubai 2026!
Expected Eid al-Fitr 2026 dates
Ramadan 2026 in the UAE is expected to begin in early March, with the last day of fasting predicted to be Thursday, March 19, 2026. Eid al-Fitr is observed following the sighting of the new moon, which will mark the start of Shawwal. Based on these predictions:
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Eid al-Fitr Day 1 (Shawwal 1): Friday, March 20, 2026
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Official public holidays: Friday, March 20 to Sunday, March 22, 2026
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Possible additional day: Thursday, March 19, 2026, if Ramadan lasts 30 days
The final dates will be confirmed after the moon sighting, which may shift the holiday by one day.
Eid Holidays for Different Sectors in Dubai
Public Sector
Government employees in the UAE are expected to have a minimum of three days off for Eid al-Fitr, from Friday, March 20 to Sunday, March 22, 2026. If Ramadan lasts the full 30 days, an additional holiday may be added on Thursday, March 19, allowing for an extended break.
Private Sector
Private sector employees will also receive at least three days of leave during Eid al-Fitr, with the possibility of an extra day off if Ramadan completes 30 days. Employers may grant this additional day at their discretion, depending on the official confirmation from authorities.
Banks and Financial Institutions
Banks in Dubai typically follow government announcements for public holidays. They are expected to close from Friday, March 20 to Sunday, March 22, with the possibility of an additional closure day on Thursday, March 19, if Ramadan lasts 30 days.
The Importance of Eid al-Fitr
Eid al-Fitr, known as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” celebrates the completion of a month of fasting and spiritual reflection. It is a time for special prayers, festive meals, and charitable acts, including giving Zakat al-Fitr to the less fortunate. The holiday emphasizes gratitude, family togetherness, and community sharing.
Things to Do in Dubai During Eid Holidays
Dubai comes alive during Eid with numerous celebrations, shopping festivals, and entertainment options. Visitors and residents can enjoy the following activities:
Fireworks Displays
Dubai is known for its spectacular fireworks during Eid. Popular locations include:
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Burj Khalifa in Downtown Dubai
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Dubai Festival City, combining fireworks with water and laser shows
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The Beach at JBR for an evening by the sea
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Global Village with cultural performances and fireworks
Shopping and Malls
Eid is a peak shopping season in Dubai. Major malls host annual sales, live performances, and cultural events. Popular destinations include:
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The Dubai Mall
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Mall of the Emirates
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City Centre Mirdif
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Dubai Outlet Mall
Cultural and Heritage Experiences
Visitors can explore Dubai’s rich history and heritage at:
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Al Fahidi Historical District
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Al Seef along Dubai Creek
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Al Shindagha Museum
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Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding
Desert Adventures
Eid is an ideal time to explore the UAE’s natural landscapes. Activities include:
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Dune bashing
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Camel rides
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Traditional Emirati dinners under the stars
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Quad biking and sandboarding
Family-Friendly Theme Parks
Dubai offers world-class theme parks suitable for families, including:
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IMG Worlds of Adventure
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Motiongate Dubai
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Aquaventure Waterpark
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Legoland Dubai
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Wild Wadi Waterpark
Planning Your Eid Holiday in Dubai
Whether you prefer a luxurious staycation or a budget-friendly option, Dubai offers a wide range of accommodations and experiences:
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Luxury hotels: Burj Al Arab, Atlantis The Palm, Jumeirah Beach Hotel
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Budget hotels: Rove Hotels, Premier Inn, Citymax Hotels
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Road trips: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, Fujairah’s mountains, Ras Al Khaimah beaches
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Day cruises: Dubai Marina or Dubai Creek dhow cruises with dinner and entertainment
Looking Ahead: Eid al-Adha 2026
For those planning in advance, Eid al-Adha 2026 is expected to occur between Thursday, June 5, and Sunday, June 8, 2026, offering another long weekend for travel, family gatherings, and leisure activities.
This article provides a clear guide to Eid al-Fitr 2026 holidays in the UAE, including public and private sector leave, cultural events, and recommended activities in Dubai for residents and visitors. It is advisable to confirm the official holiday dates once the new moon is sighted.
Things to Do During Eid Al Adha!
- Make sure you visit the mosque in Dubai, as they will have traditional Eid prayers.
- Savor the moment with special buffet brunches at high-end restaurants.
- You can spend your day with the wild animals at Dubai Safari Park.
- Restore your energy in the beautiful surroundings of Oman by taking a short trip.
Final Thoughts
Eid in Dubai is a fantastical time of the year. It is a time when Dubai goes into a celebratory mood, full of shopping and cultural experiences. Whether you want to relax, explore, or celebrate fully with relatives, there is something for everyone. Try to plan ahead of time so that you can take full advantage of the holidays!
Wish you a happy and blessed Eid Al Fitr 2026!
FAQs
- How many holidays for Eid in Dubai?
Dubai residents will get either three or four public holidays, depending on the sighting of the moon. - How many holidays for Eid Al Adha in Dubai?
The Eid Al Adha holidays in 2025 will take place from Thursday, June 5, to Sunday, June 8, 2025. - How many days are the Eid holidays in Dubai?
The number of Eid holidays is different, but in 2025, Eid Al Fitr holidays will continue for three to four days. - Is Eid a public holiday in Dubai?
Yes, Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha are both public holidays in Dubai. - Do banks close during Eid in Dubai?
Yes, banks often close for three to four days during Eid. - Are shopping malls open during Eid?
Yes, malls offer special Eid promotions and events, hence, they remain open in Dubai. - Are restaurants open during Eid in Dubai?
Yes, all restaurants function as usual during Eid, plus some have special festive menus. - Do taxis and public transport run during Eid in Dubai?
Yes, taxis and public transport services are normal, with some minor time changes. - Can tourists enjoy Eid celebrations in Dubai?
Yes, absolutely! Fireworks, cultural shows, and shopping festivals are available in public areas across Dubai.
