Perhaps you’re a tourist or resident looking to strategize and plan your entire vacation or gateways in 2026. An overview of UAE public holidays in 2026 gets you ahead of the strategy curve. This is why we have carefully curated a comprehensive list of the UAE’s full holiday schedule.
For the vast majority of locals or tourists in the UAE, staying up-to-date with full information on holidays, planning around Ramadan 2026 in UAE, while combining that with an ongoing routine or job, can be overwhelming. Without further delay, let’s plunge head long into the details.
UAE Public Holidays 2026: Why Awareness is Paramount
In the UAE, there is a huge tilt towards a harmonious relationship between work and life. This is because the work culture is heavily sensitized to take advantage of breaks and cultural celebrations to enable vibrant communities and individual festivities.
While some Islamic UAE holidays depend on moon sightings and may shift slightly, advance awareness allows you to:
- Get the best rental service for mobility.
- Strategize around peak or off seasons for affordability.
- Plan multi-Emirate road trips with ease
For visitors swooping into the Middle East landscape, having a proper guide on public holidays in UAE sets the tone for adequate planning around fireworks, hospitality, and ultimate yacht experiences.
A Quick Rundown of UAE Public Holidays in 2026
In this part, you will find all the dates for UAE public holidays in 2026 listed briefly. The goal is simple: To craft an assistive pathway to organizing your time and availability throughout 2026.
- Eid Al Fitr – Expected Friday to Sunday, March 20–22
Marking the end of Ramadan, this is one of the most festive times in the UAE.
- Arafat Day – Expected Tuesday, May 26
A significant religious observance that precedes Eid Al Adha.
- Eid Al Adha – Expected Wednesday to Friday, May 27–29
When combined with the weekend, this could offer one of the longest breaks of the year.
- Islamic New Year – Expected June
Often moved to create a long weekend where possible.
- Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (PBUH) – Expected August
Another potential long weekend is ideal for short trips.
- UAE National Day (Eid Al Etihad) – Wednesday and Thursday, December 2–3
A patriotic celebration filled with fireworks, parades, and city-wide events.
Turning Long Weekends into Memorable Road Trips
Eid Al Fitr: March Escapes Made Easy
Eid Al Fitr is a favorite among families and tourists alike during Eid holidays. With pleasant spring weather, it is the perfect time to explore beyond the city.
Popular ideas include:
Booking your BENO vehicle early during Eid ensures you have access to the model that fits your travel style, whether that is a compact sedan for city cruising or a spacious SUV for family comfort.
Eid Al Adha: The Ultimate 2026 Break
Eid Al Adha in May could offer up to six days off when paired with the weekend. This makes it ideal for longer adventures.
Recommended experiences:
- Desert road trips to Liwa for a true Emirati escape
- Scenic drives to Ras Al Khaimah for mountains and beaches
- Group travel with friends in premium SUVs or luxury vans
Demand during this period is traditionally high, so early reservations with BENO help you avoid last-minute price increases and limited availability.
Summer Holidays: Short Breaks, Big Experiences
While summer temperatures rise, holidays such as the Islamic New Year and Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday are perfect for shorter, well-planned trips.
Think:
- Early-morning drives to Jebel Jais
- Luxury mall hopping and fine dining in Dubai
- Quick overnight stays with comfortable highway cruising
With air-conditioned vehicles and optional add-ons, BENO ensures summer travel remains comfortable and stress-free.
UAE National Day: Celebrate on the Road
UAE National Day in December brings cooler weather and a festive spirit across the country. Fireworks, cultural shows, and events take place in multiple Emirates.
A rental car allows you to:
- Attend celebrations across Dubai and Abu Dhabi
- Explore decorated landmarks at your own pace
- Travel comfortably with family or visiting friends
This period is especially popular among tourists, making advance booking essential.
Why Choose BENO for UAE Public Holidays 2026
At BENO, we understand that travel for long weekends in UAE 2026 demands reliability, comfort, and flexibility.
What sets BENO apart:
- A diverse fleet ranging from economy cars to luxury and performance vehicles
- Flexible daily, weekly, and long-term rental options
- Well-maintained vehicles checked and prepared for long drives
- Convenient pickup and drop-off locations across Dubai
Whether you are a resident planning multiple breaks throughout the year or a visitor looking to explore beyond city limits, BENO offers a solution tailored to your needs.
Pricing & Availability: What to Know Before You Book
2026 public holidays in UAE naturally see an upward surge in demand for rental vehicles. Planning ahead can help you secure better value and peace of mind.
General guidelines:
- Economy and sedan rentals are ideal for city travel and short breaks
- SUVs are highly recommended for families and road trips
- Luxury vehicles are popular during festive periods and special occasions
Prices typically vary based on demand, duration, and vehicle category. Booking in advance often unlocks better rates and ensures availability, especially during major holidays like Eid and National Day.
Practical Holiday Travel Tips
To make the most of your 2026 breaks:
- Book your rental at least 4–8 weeks ahead for major holidays
- Plan routes and accommodation early for long weekends
- Check weather conditions, especially for desert or mountain drives
- Take advantage of optional features such as GPS or additional drivers
A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable holiday.
Make 2026 Your Best Year on the Road
With multiple opportunities to pause, celebrate, and explore, UAE public holidays 2026 offer the perfect chance to experience more of what the Emirates has to offer. From cultural celebrations to scenic escapes, every break becomes more enjoyable when you travel on your own terms.
At BENO, we are here to help you unlock every moment with confidence, comfort, and style. Start planning early, book smart, and turn your 2026 holidays into journeys worth remembering.
FAQs
- What is the biggest holiday in the UAE?
The biggest holiday in the UAE is the UAE National Day.
- How many public holidays are there in the UAE in 2026?
A total of eight public holidays will be celebrated in the UAE in 2026.
- What are the working hours for Ramadan in UAE 2026?
For the private sector, workers are allowed to work a maximum of 6 hours per day or 36 hours per week for daytime employees.
- What is the overtime pay in UAE?
Employees will receive compensation that is equivalent to a full day’s pay plus an extra 25% for overtime.
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