Mark your calendars, because the UAE just dropped the dates everyone’s been waiting for. The countdown to Eid al-Adha 2026 has officially begun, and it’s shaping up to be a long, festive break across the United Arab Emirates. Following the confirmed sighting of the Dhul Hijjah crescent on Sunday evening, authorities announced that Monday, May 18, will mark the start of the sacred month. That sets the stage for Arafat Day on Tuesday, May 26, with Eid al-Adha celebrations kicking off on Wednesday, May 27, and continuing through May 29.
For residents in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, this means more than just spiritual significance; it’s also about a much-anticipated break. Public sector employees and students are expected to enjoy an extended holiday stretching nearly a full week, while private sector workers are likely to get several days off, pending final confirmation.
مجلس الإمارات للإفتاء الشرعي يعلن ثبوت رؤية هلال شهر ذي الحجة والأربعاء 27 مايو أول أيام #عيد_الأضحى المبارك#وام https://t.co/UvDdb1CG9Y pic.twitter.com/FbiO838HBk
Beyond the days off, cities across the UAE are gearing up for a vibrant transformation. Mosques will host special Eid prayers, homes will glow with festive decorations, and families will gather for meals and charity. The spirit of giving takes center stage, with many distributing food and support to those in need.
As the festival coincides with the end of Hajj, millions of pilgrims will be completing their journey near Mecca, marking a deeply spiritual moment for Muslims worldwide.
