The sighting of the crescent moon on Sunday, May 17, 2026, officially began the holy month of Dhul Hijjah. Following a study of detailed observation reports from astronomical committees across the country, the UAE Fatwa Council said that Monday, May 18, 2026, will be the first day of the 12th and final month of the Islamic Hijri Calendar. This official statement clears up any confusion regarding the upcoming religious observances and confirms a massive, highly anticipated public holiday schedule for workers throughout Dubai.
Official Dates: Eid Al Adha and the Day of Arafat
The official Eid Al Adha schedule for 2026 in the United Arab Emirates has been revealed, and the Islamic calendar is in line with scientific predictions.
Major Religious Dates for the Upcoming Holidays:
- 1 Dhul Hijjah 1447 AH: Monday, May 18, 2026
- Arafat Day (Dhul Hijjah 9): Tuesday, May 26, 2026
- Eid Al Adha (Dhul Hijjah 10): Wednesday, May 27, 2026
Eid Al Adha, or the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the two most important festivals in Islam. The celebration includes prayers, almsgiving, and family gatherings. Once these dates are confirmed, families and companies in Dubai will be able to finalise their plans for travel, dining, and celebrations.
The Sighting Method: Integrating Technology and Sharia
The moon-sighting procedure was implemented within an integrated national system based on traditional Sharia law and utilising the latest space science.
Data had been gathered by a complex network of observatories before the final decision was taken. Two important specialised organisations involved in the coordination were the International Astronomy Center, which organises the “Sighter of the Seal” program, and “Sighter of Dubai”, which performed the observation in close coordination with the Department of Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities (IACAD) in Dubai.
This joint effort ensures the highest degree of accuracy and reliability possible, serving as a testimony to the ongoing efforts to use modern technology to further religious and humanitarian endeavours.
Analysis of the Nine-Day Holidays in Dubai
The official holiday calendar backs up a longer holiday for the public sector. Federal and government employees will have a five-day official holiday for the celebration of Eid Al Adha starting Monday, May 25 and ending Friday, May 29, 2026.
Add on the weekends before and after, and workers in Dubai will have a massive nine-day long holiday:
- Weekend 1: Official dates for the weekend are Saturday, May 23 and Sunday, May 24, 2026.
- Official Eid Break: From Monday, May 25 to Friday, May 29, 2026, amounting to five paid days off.
- Weekend 2: Official weekend dates are Saturday, May 30 and Sunday, May 31, 2026.
- Back to Work: Business as usual will resume on Monday, June 1, 2026.
Impact on the Travel, Hospitality, and Retail Sectors
A long 9-day vacation always increases in-city domestic travel and retail spending. Existing luxury resorts in Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Marina are already experiencing high occupancy levels as locals look to book staycations.
Theme parks, retail outlets, and indoor entertainment venues are also preparing for a flood of visitors. With the summer heat making its slow entrance, indoor attractions such as the Dubai Mall, indoor gaming festivals, and staycation venues with temperature-controlled amenities are predicted to be the main hubs of activity across the nine days.
The Eid Holiday Guide: How to Plan Your Celebrations
The official observation of the Dhul Hijjah crescent moon confirms the last big public holiday run of the spring season, plain and simple. The next nine days off will give residents the perfect opportunity to celebrate the religious traditions of Eid Al Adha, spend time with their loved ones, and take a well-deserved break before the hottest part of summer kicks in.
It is advisable to book your flights, restaurants, and staycations well in advance as this festive period is expected to be the busiest for business activity in Dubai. Follow “The Next Dubai” for the latest breaking news on travel itineraries, neighbourhood updates, and essential lifestyle guides across the emirate!
