When will UAE celebrate Eid Al Fitr 2026? Official date confirmed
Federal holidays for government employees announced from March 19 to 22
DUBAI/ABU DHABI – The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has officially announced that Eid Al Fitr 2026 will be observed on Friday, March 20, after the Shawwal crescent moon was not sighted on Wednesday, March 18.
The Presidential Court confirmed that Thursday, March 19, will mark the final day of Ramadan, with the first day of Eid Al-Fitr falling on Friday, March 20.
The announcement follows the country’s traditional moon-sighting process conducted by the Moon-sighting Committee for Shawwal 1447 AH, affiliated with the UAE Council for Fatwa. The committee convened on Wednesday evening in Abu Dhabi, corresponding to 29th Ramadan 1447 AH, and reviewed reports and moon-sighting results across the country to confirm the conclusion of Ramadan and the start of Shawwal.
Earlier this month, the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation announced the federal holiday schedule. Public holidays for government employees will run from Thursday, March 19, until Sunday, March 22, with official working hours resuming on Monday, March 23. This provides residents, businesses, and employees the clarity needed to plan prayers, family gatherings, and festive activities.
Eid in UAE
On this occasion, the Presidential Court extended its highest congratulations and best wishes to President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan; His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai; Members of the Supreme Council and Rulers of the Emirates; Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court; His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi; the Crown Princes and Deputy Rulers; the people of the UAE; and the wider Arab and Islamic nations.
The statement concluded with prayers to Almighty Allah for continued blessings, prosperity, and wellbeing for the UAE and the world on this blessed occasion.
Mosques prepare for prayers
Authorities have confirmed that Eid prayers will be conducted in mosques only, as precautionary safety measures remain in place. Across the Emirates, mosques and communities are preparing for congregational prayers and celebrations following the official declaration of the Eid date.
Saudi Arabia and Qatar
Neighbouring countries have also finalised their Eid dates. Saudi Arabia confirmed Friday, March 20, as the first day of Eid Al Fitr after the Shawwal crescent was not sighted. Similarly, Qatar announced March 20 as the start of Eid, based on local moon-sighting observations.
These announcements across the Gulf region provide residents and expatriates with clear guidance on holiday planning and highlight how traditional moon-sighting practices continue to coexist with modern astronomical observations.