The United Arab Emirates (UAE) offers a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation and the long weekends in 2026 present the ideal opportunity to enjoy it all. With several public holidays creating extended breaks and extra days off, residents and visitors can look forward to a year filled with exploration, celebration, and rejuvenation.
Whether you’re dreaming of Dubai’s glittering skyline, Abu Dhabi’s cultural landmarks, or the tranquil mountains and beaches of Fujairah, these long weekends are your chance to experience the UAE at its finest.
Long Weekends in the UAE (2026)
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New Year’s Day – January 1 (Thursday)
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Eid al-Fitr Holidays – March 20–23 (Friday–Monday)*
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Arafat Day & Eid al-Adha Holidays – May 26–30 (Tuesday–Saturday)*
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Hijri New Year (Islamic New Year) – July 17 (Friday)*
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Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (Mawlid al-Nabi) – September 16 (Wednesday)*
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Commemoration Day & UAE National Day – November 30–December 2 (Monday–Wednesday)
Islamic holidays are based on the lunar calendar and may vary slightly depending on moon sightings. Official announcements will confirm the exact dates closer to each event.
Long Weekends in Detail
New Year’s Day – January 1 (Thursday–Sunday, Jan 1–4)
The year begins with a spectacular celebration across the Emirates. Fireworks in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah light up the skies, while people gather for parties, concerts, and family dinners. This four-day long weekend offers a festive start to 2026, blending excitement with moments of reflection and renewal.
Eid al-Fitr Holidays – March 20–23, 2026 (Friday–Monday)
Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, is one of the most joyous holidays in the UAE. Families gather for prayers, exchange greetings, and share Emirati delicacies like luqaimat (sweet dumplings) and machboos (spiced rice).
The streets are decorated with lights, and fireworks displays illuminate popular destinations such as Dubai Creek, Abu Dhabi Corniche, and Sharjah’s Al Majaz Waterfront. This four day long weekend offers both spiritual reflection and festive fun.
Arafat Day & Eid al-Adha Holidays – May 26–30, 2026 (Tuesday–Saturday)
Known as the Festival of Sacrifice, Eid al Adha commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion and faith. The UAE marks this sacred occasion with prayers, charity, and family gatherings.
With five consecutive days off, residents and visitors can take short getaways from luxury desert resorts to the cool mountain escapes of Hatta or the pristine beaches of Fujairah. It’s a time of unity, gratitude, and generosity.
Hijri New Year – July 17, 2026 (Friday)
The Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year), also called Al Hijra, is a peaceful observance marking the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar. It’s a three-day weekend (July 17–19) for rest, spiritual reflection, and quiet celebration across the Emirates.
Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday – September 16, 2026 (Wednesday)
Known as Mawlid al-Nabi, this day celebrates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Mosques host sermons and prayers emphasizing compassion, kindness, and community. Many enjoy a midweek three-day break (Sep 16–18), perfect for relaxation or cultural experiences across the country.
Commemoration Day & UAE National Day – November 30–December 2, 2026 (Monday–Wednesday)
The year ends with one of the most significant and patriotic occasions in the UAE.
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Commemoration Day (November 30) honors the sacrifices of Emirati heroes.
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National Day Holiday: (December 2) marks the founding of the UAE in 1971.
Cities come alive with parades, air shows, fireworks, and light festivals, especially in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. This five-day long weekend (Nov 28–Dec 2) offers an ideal chance for residents to celebrate national pride while enjoying a memorable year-end break.
Conclusion
The UAE long weekends in 2026 promise a wonderful mix of spiritual reflection, cultural celebration, and leisure. With holidays conveniently spaced throughout the year, residents and travelers can plan staycations, beach escapes, or cultural excursions without taking much time off work.
From the energy of Dubai’s celebrations to the tranquility of the Hajar Mountains, every break offers something unique. Whether you’re exploring ancient traditions, indulging in luxury, or spending quality time with loved ones, these long weekends provide the perfect opportunity to relax, reconnect, and rediscover the UAE.