Dubai, 12 March 2026 — Dubai authorities have announced a four-day Eid Al Fitr holiday for government employees, with official working hours due to resume on Monday, March 23.
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Public-sector holiday
The Dubai Government Human Resources Department issued a circular confirming that public-sector staff in the emirate will be off from Thursday, 19 March 2026, through Sunday, 22 March 2026, returning to duty on Monday, 23 March 2026. The circular was circulated to government entities to enable operational planning ahead of the festival.
Private-sector schedule
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has set the paid holiday for private-sector employees from Thursday, 19 March to Saturday, 21 March 2026. The ministry added that if Ramadan completes 30 days, the private-sector holiday will be extended to Sunday, 22 March 2026, aligning with the public-sector window. Employers and payroll departments were advised to update schedules accordingly.
Moon sighting and final confirmation
Authorities reiterated that the exact date for the start of Eid depends on the sighting of the Shawwal crescent. The UAE’s astronomical forecasts indicate that Eid is likely to fall on 20 March 2026, but the official decision will follow the moon-sighting committee’s observation late on 18 March; if the crescent is not sighted, Ramadan will complete 30 days and Eid observance will shift accordingly.
Working hours and essential services
Government offices will operate as normal from 23 March 2026. Departments providing essential and emergency services will continue operations during the holiday period according to shift rosters and operational requirements, as noted in the circular to agencies.
