Eid Al Adha 2026 explained: Moon sighting, Arafat Day and UAE holiday
-
Dhivyanshu
- . May 10, 2026
- . Update: May 10, 2026 1:50 pm
The second, and most well known of the main festivals of the Islamic religion, is about to begin. It is the “Festival of Sacrifice” and a very spiritual time, which unites families, and gives a much-needed break to the whole workforce. Officially their late-spring travel plans have just been finalized as astronomical predictions have been released for May 2026.
You may be asking yourself when the long weekend will actually start, and knowing how the moon helps to determine the season is crucial.
Tracking the Islamic lunar calendar dates
At any rate, the Islamic calendar is entirely based on the visual observation of the crescent moon, whereas the Gregorian calendar relies on mathematical calculations. The Islamic lunar calendar dates are variable due to the variation of lunar and solar cycles, which causes dates to slip back about 10 to 11 days each Gregorian year.
The astronomers now predict that the month of Dhu Al-Hijjah will begin on Monday, May 18, 2026. To make these Islamic lunar calendar dates official, the central moon-sighting committee has to see the new moon. The Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) works directly with the international astronomical centres for final religious confirmation.
How Hijri month observances determine Arafat Day
The order of Hijri month observances calendar determines the exact date of Arafat Day to be on the 9th day of Dhu Al-Hijjah. This is considered as the most sacred day of the year, and it is the central, turning point of the Hajj. According to the latest 2026 forecasts, Arafat Day is likely to occur on Tuesday, May 26. Astronomers have said that these times are fixed in a mathematical sense, but in essence, they are based on the official religious announcement.
Therefore, the official declaration of Eid will be next day, Wednesday, 27 May. These formal observances of the Hijri month are normally broadcast shortly after the physical moon sighting is confirmed by the highest courts of the country by the Emirates News Agency (WAM).
The expected Gulf public holiday schedule
The coming festival for the working people means a great, long holiday. The public holiday schedule following the Gulf is quite generous and allows for a break covering Arafat Day and the three days of Eid as well.
As per the astronomical prediction, the official break will be from Tuesday 26th May to Friday 29th May. With the regular weekend added on, locals may have the opportunity of an unbelievable 6-day weekend. In the public sector, the dates are managed by the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR), which will ensure that all government entities match up in calendar dates. Also, it is an extremely rare mid-year break, according to Arabian Business.
Maximizing your Gulf public holiday schedule
Whether you are traveling abroad or indulging the local staycation, it’s essential to keep track of the official Gulf holiday schedule. In the private sector, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emaratisation (MoHRE) will provide a parallel circular stating equivalent leave.
You can also refer all confirmed national breaks directly on the UAE Government Portal, which is updated on the spot after the approval by the cabinet. To beat the competition, it is crucial to book your tickets now before the final dates are announced and ticket prices skyrocket, Time Out Dubai strongly recommends.
FAQs
Q1: When exactly is Eid Al Adha 2026 expected to start?
Based on preliminary astronomical predictions, 2026 is expected to have the festival’s first day on Wednesday, May 27, as per astronomical calculations.
Q2: How are the official Islamic lunar calendar dates confirmed?
A special state-designated committee of moon-sighters, who make a physical observation of the moon, confirms the dates.
Q3: Will the private sector get the same Gulf public holiday schedule as the government?
Yes. The Federal Labor Law has been amended to ensure a common holiday schedule in the private and public sectors, so private and public workers get the same schedule of holidays to celebrate the holidays.
Q4: What is Arafat Day in the context of Hijri month observances?
Arafat Day occurs on the ninth day of Dhu Al-Hijjah. The day serves as the main religious observance for Hajj pilgrims in Saudi Arabia which Muslim people around the world observe through prayer and fasting.
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