UAE may get four-day long weekend for Eid Al Fitr 2026, based on astronomical forecasts

UAE residents could be in line for a four-day-long weekend for Eid Al Fitr in 2026, according to early astronomical forecasts, offering a potential extended break for travel, staycations, and family celebrations.

Based on projections from astronomical calculations, Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin on Thursday, February 19, subject to official moon sighting. This year, Ramadan is predicted to last the full 30 days, which plays a key role in determining the length of the Eid holiday.

Under this scenario, Eid Al Fitr is forecast to begin on Friday, March 20, 2026. In the UAE, the public holiday for Eid Al Fitr typically includes the first three days of Shawwal. When Ramadan completes 30 days, the 30th day of Ramadan is also declared a public holiday, extending the break.

If these projections hold, residents could enjoy the following four-day holiday:

• Thursday, March 19: Ramadan 30 (potential additional holiday)

• Friday, March 20: Eid Al Fitr – Shawwal 1

• Saturday, March 21: Eid Al Fitr – Day 2

• Sunday, March 22: Eid Al Fitr – Day 3

Under this timeline, work would resume on Monday, March 23, 2026.

It is important to note that all dates remain tentative. The UAE Moon Sighting Committee will issue the official confirmation closer to the end of Ramadan, as Islamic months are determined by the sighting of the crescent moon.

Despite this, such forecasts are commonly used by residents and businesses for early travel planning, hotel bookings, and scheduling leave, particularly for one of the most significant holidays in the UAE calendar.