The UAE Council for Fatwa officially announced that the crescent moon of Dhu Al Hijjah for the year 1447 AH was successfully sighted on Sunday evening, May 17, 2026. Based on this confirmed sighting, Monday May 18 is the first day of Dhu Al Hijjah, and Wednesday May 27 will be the first day of Eid Al Adha in the UAE. The Council extended warm congratulations to the UAE leadership, citizens, and residents on this blessed occasion.
Government Employees Get a Full Nine Days Off
The Dubai Government Human Resources Department announced that the Eid Al Adha holiday for government employees will start on Monday May 25 and end on Friday May 29, with official working hours resuming on Monday June 1. This gives government employees a potential nine-day break when Saturday and Sunday are included. That is a long, well-deserved rest for everyone in the public sector.
Arafah Day Falls on Tuesday May 26
The UAE Cabinet officially approved three days of public holiday for Eid Al Adha from Wednesday May 27 to Friday May 29. Arafah Day, which is one of the holiest days in Islam and the most important day of the Hajj pilgrimage, falls on Tuesday May 26 — the day before Eid begins. Muslims around the world observe Arafah Day with fasting and prayer, making it one of the most spiritually significant days of the entire Islamic year.
Private Sector Workers Await Official Confirmation
Private sector workers are still awaiting an announcement from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation to confirm the exact number of days they will be off. However a six-day break for the private sector is likely, while school kids and public sector workers enjoy a nine-day break. Many private sector employees are also checking whether taking one extra day of annual leave on Monday May 25 could give them the full nine days off as well.
Plan Your Eid Al Adha Break With Ever List
Whether you are planning to travel, eat out, shop, or simply spend quality time with family at home, Ever List helps UAE residents discover and connect with the best local businesses and services across all the emirates — making your Eid holiday planning easy and stress free.
Final Thoughts
Eid Al Adha 2026 is officially confirmed and the countdown has begun. With up to nine days off for many residents, this is one of the biggest holiday breaks of the year. Wishing everyone across the UAE a peaceful, joyful, and blessed Eid Al Adha.
