Another season of celebration is around the corner again, and Dubai in all its festive glory comes to life with an array of spectacular events, fireworks, performances, and celebratory arrangements.
According to a report by TimeOut Dubai, Eid Al Adha 2026 is expected to fall on Wednesday, May 27, following the Day of Arafat on Tuesday, May 26. These dates correspond to the 9th and 10th of Dhul Hijjah of the lunar calendar. Eid Al-Adha holidays in Dubai 2026 are expected to include the three days of the celebrations and the Day of Arafat, making it a four-day break. If the two-day weekend is added, the holiday becomes a really long six-day celebration across the Emirates.
It goes without saying that such a long break calls for careful planning. So, you may ask: what are the activities to do during Eid Al Adha in Dubai? Undoubtedly, the city is home to many spectacular activities, fun-filled events, live music performances and adventures for individuals, groups, and families. Let’s explore some of the amazing activities you can enjoy in the UAE during Eid Al Adha.
Things to do in Dubai for Eid Al-Adha 2026
Pray at the Jumeirah Mosque
The festival of Eid always starts with a dedicated act of worship. It’s Eid Al Adha, after fasting on the preceding Arafat Day in Dubai 2026, you wake up, adorn yourself in beautiful clothes, and head to the mosque to observe the Eid prayer.
Thousands of people gather for Eid in Dubai, marking an auspicious occasion in the city and globally for all Muslims.
Jumeirah Mosque is a well-known landmark in Dubai and it’s open to everyone. It’s one of the large mosques in the Emirates and more than 1,000 worshippers can worship at once.
During Eid celebrations, the entire mosque is decorated, marking the auspicious occasion. If you are in Dubai for Eid, head to Jumeirah Mosque for Eid prayers.
Location: Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah 1, Dubai, UAE.
Enjoy Delicious Food at Al Hadreerah
What’s next to do after Eid prayers? It’s always hunting for delicious meals. And Eid is one of the best times to enjoy delightful cuisine at discounted prices across multiple outlets in the UAE.
In my experience, visiting Al Hadreerah is one awesome way to spend Eid alone or with friends and family. The place is popular for a lot of its special offerings including open dining, Arabian Nights, a calm and festive atmosphere particularly during Eid Al Adha.
If you’ve been thinking of good family activities in Dubai for Eid Al Adha 2026, trying the delicious food at Al Hadreerah is definitely worth it.
Location: Bab Al Shams Desert Resort, Al Qudra Road, Dubai.
Open: 7 PM to Midnight
Price: Starting from AED 300-400 per person
Enjoy the Thrill at IMG Worlds of Adventure
IMG Worlds of Adventure is the world’s largest indoor theme park with a lot of fun activities for kids and families to engage in.
If you’re planning to make your kids’ Eid spectacular, then this is surely the place to be. From Marvel to Cartoon Network, this destination has got every character welcoming you and the kids with a heartwarming smile.
This fun destination isn’t only for kids, adults can also enjoy themselves at the haunted town, IMG Boulevard.
Eid should be fun, and a bonding time for friends and families. If this appeals to you, then book your tickets to IMG Worlds of Adventure and enjoy.
Location: City of Arabia, Dubai, UAE
Open: 10 AM to 10 PM
Price: AED 365 per person
Watch the Fireworks Spectacle
Every year, residents and tourists genuinely look forward to the fireworks across the UAE, and the country never seems to disappoint.
This year, the fireworks display will be happening in different destinations. The official 2026 schedules for Eid Al Adha fireworks in Dubai will be announced closer to the celebration, but for now, here are the known locations:
1. Dubai Creek/ Deira
Display style: Traditional fireworks over the historic Creek
Best viewing spot: Creekside Park, Al Seef
2. Burj Khalifa (Downtown Dubai)
Display Style: Premium fireworks and laser light shows
Best viewing spot: Dubai Fountain Area, Burj Park
3. Palm Jumeirah
Display Style: Shows over the Arabian Gulf
Best viewing spot: Palm Broadwalk, The Pointe
Eid fireworks display often begins after Isha prayers, typically around 9 PM to 10 PM. Some venues run shows across midnights of the 3-day Eid festival. For updates on official schedules and timing, check TimeOut Dubai and official emirate website for confirmation.
Shopping Fever at Dubai Mall
Shopping is as therapeutic as any other activity on Eid with the discounts enjoyed on items. If you’ve been wondering where to shop for Eid, then Dubai Mall should be at the top of your list.
Visiting Dubai Mall during Eid is just fun. With over 400 international brands alongside local stores to shop from, it’s the perfect place to shop for yourself and your loved ones.
While at this shopping destination, you can also check out the restaurants, event centers, movie theaters, and other top attractions.
Location: Downtown Dubai, Dubai, UAE
Open: 10 AM to 12 PM (Monday to Thursday) | 10 AM to 1 PM (Friday to Sunday)
Book an Adventurous Boat Ride
Looking for an experience that redefines how you enjoy Eid in Dubai? A boat tour of Dubai during Eid weekend is the way to go.
Beno curates an unparalleled experience covering spectacular destinations within the city, taking you on a journey of adventure and delight. Personalized tours including gourmet meals, tour guides, games, and more can be provided by Beno.
Book a ride with Beno and enjoy Eid Al Adha with friends and family differently in 2026.
Highlights of Eid in the UAE: Traditions & Customs
Whether you are a Muslim living in the UAE or someone from an entirely different faith and background, Eid Al Adha is a day that is hard to miss and even harder to forget. Here is a straightforward look at how it all comes together, especially activities to do during Eid in Dubai.
Morning: Getting Ready and Heading to Prayer
The day starts well before the sun fully rises. Muslims take a ritual bath, dress in their finest or newest clothes, and step out into the early morning while quietly, and sometimes quite audibly, reciting the Takbeer. By around 5 AM, the phrase “Allahu Akbar” can be heard moving through residential streets and apartment buildings like a gentle wave.
Everyone then heads to a communal prayer space for the Eid salah, followed by a sermon that reflects on the story of Prophet Ibrahim and its connection to the Hajj pilgrimage.
After prayers, people greet one another with “Eid Mubarak” and “Taqabbal Allahu Minna Wa Minkum,” wishing each other an accepted celebration.
Mid-Morning: The Qurbani
Once prayers are done, families turn their attention to Qurbani, the sacrifice of an animal such as a sheep, goat, or cow. Depending on local regulations, this takes place at home, at a licensed facility, or through a charitable organisation that handles it on the family’s behalf.
The meat is then divided into three portions: one for the household, one for friends and relatives, and one set aside for people in need. It is an act rooted in generosity, and that spirit carries through the rest of the day.
Afternoon and Evening: Food, Family, and Fireworks
Afternoons are reserved for the family. Visits to parents, grandparents, and older relatives are considered essential and never treated as optional. Living rooms fill up, phones are put down, and long tables are laid out with dishes like mandi, harees, ouzi, mansaf, lamb machboos, and slow-roasted goat.
Children look forward to Eidi, small envelopes of cash handed out by uncles, aunts, and grandparents, which has become one of the most beloved parts of the holiday for younger family members. As evening arrives, malls host special events, public spaces come alive with crowds, and fireworks light up the sky across the UAE.
One thing that catches many expats off guard is just how open Eid al Adha feels in the UAE. Non-Muslim neighbours frequently receive plates of food, genuine invitations to join gatherings, and warm “Eid Mubarak” greetings from people they barely know. The UAE’s mix of cultures and nationalities means that Eid extends well beyond religious boundaries, becoming a shared moment for the whole community regardless of background.
A celebration of great significance in the UAE, Eid comes with a lot of positive energy and communal harmony. Activities to do during Eid in Dubai and unending and families can celebrate this great occasion in spectacular fashion.
FAQs
- When is Eid Al Adha 2026 in Dubai?
Eid Al Adha is expected to begin with the Day of Arafat on Tuesday, May 26, with the holiday spanning Wednesday, May 27, to Friday, May 29, resulting in a long six-day weekend and celebrations.
- What are the top family-friendly activities during Eid?
Residents and tourists in Dubai can enjoy fireworks, visit IMG Worlds for indoor entertainment, or book a family staycation and other activities.
- Are there any special dining experiences?
Yes, several restaurants in Dubai offer spectacular and discounted dining experiences during Eid.
- What should I do in Dubai over the Eid break?
Plan the experience and enjoy the long holiday. Book amazing boat and buggy rental Dubai from Beno or other activities and enjoy the delightful holiday.
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