Good news for anyone already counting down to their next day off. The UAE has another public holiday coming in August before the year closes out with Union Day in December. The holiday commemorates Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday, and depending on when the moon is sighted, there is a real chance it turns into a long weekend. Here’s what you need to know.
When’s the next public holiday?
The next public holiday in the UAE calendar is the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) which is observed on the 12th of Rabi’ Al Awwal in the Hijri calendar. The exact date will be announced only after the official moon-sighting committee declares the start of the month of Rabi’ Al Awwal. According to the current calendar projection published by the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat (Awqaf), the holiday is expected to be on Tuesday, August 25, 2026. However, the final date depends on the moon sighting and could move by a day.
Could It Go Long Weekend?
It can, yes. Should the holiday fall on a Tuesday, August 25, the UAE Cabinet may decide to shift it to Monday, August 24, instead. That would mean a three-day weekend for residents from Saturday August 22 to Monday August 24. This is possible due to a holiday transfer provision written into Cabinet Resolution No. 27 of 2024 Concerning Public Holidays in the UAE. According to this rule, an official public holiday can be moved to the beginning or end of the working week by a decision of the UAE Cabinet. This means that a Tuesday holiday can be moved to the Monday before or the Thursday after to create a longer break. The UAE government announces this decision closer to the holiday date, so stay tuned to official announcements. If the holiday remains on Tuesday August 25, there won’t be a long weekend, it’ll be a single day off. If the Cabinet gives it to them, the weekend gets longer. Either way, it’s still a paid day off. If you are planning a quick getaway or a staycation for the August break, then Ras Al Khaimah is always a great option. Explore the best Malls In Ras Al Khaimah for a calm day of shopping and family fun away from the city.
Holidays that are not transferable?
Not all UAE public holidays can be moved. Cabinet Resolution No. 27 of 2024 has listed three holidays that are fixed and cannot be transferred to create a long weekend. These are the Eid Al Fitr, Arafat Day (the Day of Arafah) and Eid Al Adha. These three occur on specific Islamic dates every year, and stay on whatever day they land on naturally. The Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday is not on this exceptions list, which is why a transfer is legally possible and why residents are hoping for one this August. If the holiday falls on or around a weekend, Downtown Dubai is one of the best places to spend it. Read the full Downtown Dubai guide for the best places to eat, walk and entertain yourself in the centre of the city.
What Are the UAE Public Holidays 2026?
The UAE has seven official public holidays annually. This is the complete list for 2026 and the dates that have already taken place and those that are still to come.
Wednesday, January 1, New Year’s Day. Gone already. Eid Al Fitr, March 30 to April 1, (three days) Already gone. Arafat Day (Eid Al Adha Eve) – Friday, June 5 Already passed . ” Eid Al Adha: 6 to 8 June (3 days) Long since passed. Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year) Friday, June 26. Passed already. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) Birthday: Due Aug 25, Tuesday. On the way. UAE National Day (Union Day) : 2nd & 3rd December, Wednesday & Thursday. Later in the year.
There is only one public holiday left for 2026 after the Prophet’s birthday in August, which is Union Day on December 2 and 3. December 2 is a Wednesday and December 3 is a Thursday, so adding the weekend will automatically create a four-day break from Wednesday to Saturday. That is something to look forward to at the end of the year. If you’re planning a short trip to Al Ain over the August break, the city boasts some brilliant dining options. Find the Best Restaurants In Al Ain looking for great places to eat with family over the holiday.
How do you know if the holiday is moved?
Holiday transfers are not announced months in advance by the UAE Cabinet. The decision usually comes days or weeks before the holiday. For the latest updates best to keep up with the official UAE Government portal at u.ae, or the MOHRE website if you are in the private sector, or your employer’s official HR communications. The announcement will be made to federal employees via official government channels. Private sector employees are subject to the same public holiday calendar but should check with their employer to see if they are entitled to any extra days off. Mark August 25 on your calendar and pray for Monday the 24th too until the official word is out.
One summer holiday to go, and a possible long weekend ahead. Stay tuned to official channels for confirmation. For more UAE holiday news and useful guides, follow Ever List.
