Hijri New Year in Dubai will contribute to 2026’s list of long weekends, starting from the end of work hours on Friday, June 12 until Monday, June 15, after which work resumes on Tuesday, June 16 for both private and public sector workers in the UAE.
As the official and foundational religion of Dubai, Islam shapes the law and governance system on a broad scale. While Dubai is a prime location for thousands of expats and tourists each year, it follows the Islamic calendar and honors important holidays and memorials within a 365-day period.
This can be said about the upcoming Hijri New Year Long Weekend UAE 2026. The UAE government has officially announced Monday, June 15, 2026, as a public holiday for all public and private sector employees, creating a three-day weekend for many residents.
This blog piece contains detailed information about several luxury experiences, including yacht rides, helicopter sightseeing, and so much more.
Is the Hijri New Year Off in the UAE?
If "is Hijri New Year a holiday in the UAE?" is on your mind, the short answer is yes.
According to a report by Khaleejtimes, the UAE's Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) have officially confirmed Monday, June 15, 2026, as a public holiday to mark the beginning of the Islamic New Year (1448 AH). The holiday applies to both federal government entities and private sector establishments across the country.
The Hijri New Year marks the beginning of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, and is observed throughout the Islamic world as a significant religious occasion.

How Can You Spend the Hijri New Year Long Weekend in Dubai?
The Hijri New Year Long Weekend UAE 2026 can be spent in a lot of ways. It is no news that Dubai is home to some of the most enthralling, fun-filled adventures on the planet. Holidays like this contribute to the essentials of work-life balance that is being implemented across many sectors in the UAE.
Popular options include:
- Private yacht charters
- Helicopter sightseeing tours
- Luxury hotel staycations
- Fine dining experiences
- Beach clubs
- Desert adventures
- Supercar driving experiences
- Waterfront leisure activities
Upon observation, we have discovered that hospitality and lifestyle businesses within the UAE, including ours, see an increase in demand during public holidays because most people are trying to take advantage of the break to get away from Dubai’s daily hustle and bustle.
Why is a Private Yacht Rental Dubai Experience Perfect for a Long Weekend
A private yacht rental Dubai experience gives room for entertainment that goes beyond casual exploration. It enables extreme immersion and quietude, especially if you’re going with a group or with your significant other.
The golden silhouette cast by Dubai’s evening sun makes for the perfect cinematic experience whilst cruising aboard Dubai’s turquoise waters.
Popular yacht routes often showcase:
- Palm Jumeirah
- Dubai Marina
- Bluewaters Island
- Ain Dubai
- Burj Al Arab

Is a Helicopter Tour Dubai Worth It During the Hijri New Year Break?
Yes. A helicopter tour Dubai experience offers an extremely unique point of view from a vantage point in Dubai. Get up close and personal with the ingenuity of Emirati excellence and engineering that has birthed one of the most iconic skylines in the world.
From the air, you can admire the beautiful skyline and top destinations like:
- Burj Khalifa
- Palm Jumeirah
- Atlantis The Palm
- Dubai Marina
- The World Islands
- Jumeirah coastline
Can a Daily Car Rental Dubai Help You Explore More During the Holiday?
Absolutely. A daily car rental Dubai service gives visitors and residents the flexibility to create their own itinerary and explore the city at their preferred pace.
Benefits include:
- Flexible travel schedules
- Convenient access to attractions
- Enhanced comfort
- Premium driving experiences
- Easy inter-emirate travel
Luxury vehicle rentals often become especially popular during UAE public holidays, as residents seek memorable experiences that blend convenience with lifestyle appeal.
For those planning multiple activities across the city, a daily rental can significantly improve the overall holiday experience.

The Holiday Itinerary: What to do on a long weekend in Dubai
To make the most of the Hijri New Year Long Weekend UAE 2026, consider combining several premium experiences into a single itinerary.
Day One
- Private yacht cruise
- Marina dining experience
- Sunset photography session
Day Two
- Helicopter sightseeing tour
- Downtown Dubai exploration
- Luxury shopping experience
Day Three
- Premium vehicle rental
- Scenic coastal drive
- Fine dining experience
This balanced approach allows visitors to experience Dubai from the road, the sea, and the air while maximizing a short holiday.
You can plan a beautiful and breathtaking holiday itinerary with your partner and family through Beno. Beno is the #1 luxury and hopsitality provider offering diverse perfectly curated experiences including yacht cruises, helicopter rides, luxury supercar and SUV rental with chauffeur services, desert safaris and much more. There's also a team of professionals waiting to cater to your every need.

Make the Most of the Hijri New Year Long Weekend UAE 2026
The Hijri New Year Long Weekend UAE 2026 presents the perfect opportunity to enjoy a luxury escape without leaving the country. Whether you're interested in a private yacht rental Dubai experience, an unforgettable helicopter tour Dubai, or the flexibility of a daily car rental Dubai, planning can help you secure the best experiences before demand peaks.
With the holiday officially confirmed for June 15, 2026, now is the ideal time to start planning your long weekend itinerary.
Save the date, check our website, and book a luxurious experience to maximise your holiday in Dubai today.
FAQs
- Is June 15 a Holiday in the UAE?
Yes. Monday, June 15, 2026, has officially been declared a paid public holiday in the UAE.
- What are the upcoming holidays in the UAE?
The upcoming holidays in the UAE after June 15 are August 24, 2026, December 1, 2026, December 2, 2026, and December 3, 2026.
- Is the Islamic New Year a public holiday in the UAE?
Yes, the Islamic New Year is a public holiday in the UAE and is supported by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).
- What is a Hijri New Year?
The Hijri New Year (also known as the Islamic or Arabic New Year) marks the first day of Muharram, the opening month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The calendar is called the Hijri calendar because it begins its year count from the Hijrah, the historic migration of the Prophet Muhammad and his followers from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE.