Employee planning

UAE Private Sector Holidays 2026

Private sector employees in the UAE use public holiday announcements to plan annual leave, travel, and family time. This guide groups the 2026 public holiday dates with a practical leave-planning angle.

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AudiencePrivate sector employees and HR planners.
Best useUse with the homepage leave calculator for connected days off.
ReminderCheck employer HR notices for final payroll and operating details.

Important dates

HolidayDateStatusNote
New Year's DayJanuary 1, 2026Confirmed1 day
Eid Al FitrMarch 19-22, 2026Confirmed4 days
Arafat DayMay 26, 2026Confirmed1 day
Eid Al AdhaMay 27-29, 2026Confirmed3 days
Islamic New YearJune 16, 2026EstimatedMoon sighting
Prophet Birthday / MawlidAugust 25, 2026EstimatedMoon sighting
Commemoration DayDecember 1, 2026Confirmed1 day
Eid Al Etihad / UAE National DayDecember 2-3, 2026Confirmed2 days

Frequently asked questions

What are UAE private sector holidays in 2026?

The 2026 UAE holiday calendar includes New Year, Eid Al Fitr, Arafat Day, Eid Al Adha, Islamic New Year, Prophet Birthday, Commemoration Day, and Eid Al Etihad.

Can private sector holiday dates change?

Hijri holiday dates can shift after official moon sighting and government announcements.

How can private sector employees maximize leave?

Use annual leave around Eid and Eid Al Etihad, then test your weekend pattern in the leave calculator.

Related guides

UAE Public Holidays 2026›UAE Annual Leave and Public Holidays›How to Get 9 Days Off in UAE›UAE Private Sector Holidays 2026›

Note: Islamic holiday dates can shift based on official moon sighting announcements.