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These 2 Gulf countries have already announced Eid Al Fitr 2026 holidays
The exact duration of the Eid break may differ slightly once the moon is sighted, marking the end of Ramadan
- PUBLISHED: Wed 4 Mar 2026, 12:36 PM
The holy month of Ramadan is on, and as Muslims around the world prepare to end their fast on Eid Al Fitr this year, Gulf countries have begun announcing official holiday dates for residents.
The number of days off for schools and offices varies by country and sector, and ultimately depends on the sighting of the moon.
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Eid is observed on Shawwal 1, marking the end of Ramadan. Since the Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, months last either 29 or 30 days, depending on when the crescent moon is sighted. As a result, the exact duration of the Eid break may differ slightly once the official announcement is made.
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Here are the GCC countries that have already announced their Eid Al Fitr holidays.
Eid Al Fitr 2026 holidays in UAE
For federal government entities, the Eid Al Fitr holiday will begin on Thursday, March 19, 2026, and continue until Sunday, March 22, 2026. Official working hours will resume on Monday, March 23, 2026.
For private sector employees, the UAE government has confirmed a four-day Eid Al Fitr holiday, from Thursday, March 19, to Saturday, March 21. Employees who normally work on Sundays will be required to return to work on Sunday, March 22. If Ramadan lasts 30 days, the private-sector holiday will be extended to Sunday, March 22, 2026. In the UAE, Sunday is also the official weekend.
Saudi Arabia announces Eid Al Fitr holidays
In Saudi Arabia, for both public and private sector employees, the holiday is set to begin on Wednesday, March 18, which corresponds to the 29th day of Ramadan, 1447 AH, and will last four days for all employees.
Normal work will resume on Sunday, March 22, the government announced on Wednesday.
