United Arab Emirates Likely to Get Four-Day Eid Al Fitr Break. As the holy month of Ramadan enters its first week in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), residents across the country are already looking ahead to Eid Al Fitr 2026, one of the most anticipated public holidays of the year. Eid Al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is traditionally celebrated with family gatherings, prayers, festive meals, and travel plans.
This year, UAE residents are likely to enjoy a four-day long weekend, depending on the official moon sighting announcement. While the final decision will be based on religious observation, early indications suggest that both possible scenarios will result in an extended break.
Significance of Eid Al Fitr in the Islamic Calendar
Eid Al Fitr is celebrated on the first day of Shawwal, the month that follows Ramadan in the Islamic Hijri calendar. Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic year, lasts either 29 or 30 days, depending on the sighting of the crescent moon.
The festival is not only a religious celebration but also one of the longest public holidays in the UAE. Government institutions, private companies, and schools typically close for several days, allowing residents to travel abroad or spend quality time with family and friends.
Moon Sighting to Determine Eid Date
The official Eid date will be confirmed after the UAE’s Moon-Sighting Committee observes the sky on March 18 (29th of Ramadan). The committee will determine whether the crescent moon marking the beginning of Shawwal is visible.
As with every Islamic month, the exact date of Eid depends entirely on the moon sighting. However, projections indicate that residents with a standard Saturday-Sunday weekend will most likely receive a four-day break regardless of the outcome.
Scenario 1: If the Moon Is Sighted on March 18
If the crescent moon is sighted on the evening of March 18, Ramadan will conclude after 29 days. In this case:
- Eid Al Fitr will fall on Thursday, March 19
- Public holidays will be observed from March 19 to March 21 (Thursday to Saturday)
- When combined with Sunday, residents will enjoy a four-day long weekend
Under this scenario, employees will return to work on Monday after an extended break.
Scenario 2: If the Moon Is Not Sighted
If the moon is not sighted on March 18, Ramadan will complete 30 days. In that situation:
- Eid Al Fitr will fall on Friday, March 20
- The 30th day of Ramadan (March 19) will also be declared a public holiday
- Public holidays will run from March 19 to March 22 (Thursday to Sunday)
This scenario also results in a four-day weekend, offering residents the same extended break.
Astronomical Projections Suggest 30 Days of Ramadan
According to astronomical calculations shared by experts, Ramadan is likely to complete 30 days this year. Khadijah Ahmad, Operations Manager at the Dubai Astronomy Group, has indicated that projections suggest Eid Al Fitr will most probably fall on Friday, March 20.
These calculations are based on scientific observations of lunar movements and visibility patterns. While astronomy provides strong predictions, the final confirmation still depends on the official religious moon sighting announcement.
Alignment with Official Prayer Calendar
The projection of a 30-day Ramadan also aligns with the prayer timings calendar released by the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department. The calendar lists Ramadan as a 30-day month this year and shows Shawwal 1 falling on March 20.
Although such calendars offer guidance, authorities emphasize that the final decision rests with the Moon-Sighting Committee’s official declaration.
Travel Plans and Holiday Preparations
With a potential four-day break ahead, many UAE residents are already planning short trips, staycations, and family gatherings. Airlines and travel agencies typically witness increased bookings during Eid holidays, as residents take advantage of the extended weekend.
Hotels, shopping malls, and entertainment venues across the UAE are also expected to launch special Eid promotions and festive events, making it one of the busiest tourism periods of the year.
Economic and Social Impact of Eid Holidays
Eid Al Fitr not only holds religious importance but also significantly boosts the local economy. Retail sales, hospitality bookings, and domestic tourism generally experience a surge during this period.
For families, the holiday provides a valuable opportunity to reconnect, exchange gifts, and participate in community celebrations. Special Eid prayers are held in mosques and open grounds across the country, drawing large gatherings in a spirit of unity and gratitude.
Conclusion
While astronomical data strongly suggests that Ramadan will complete 30 days this year, residents must wait for the official announcement from the UAE Moon-Sighting Committee on March 18.
