United Arab Emirates Public Holidays 2027
The UAE's holidays follow Cabinet Resolution No. 27 of 2024 and apply to both sectors. Fixed dates are New Year's Day and National Day; the Islamic holidays are expected dates that are confirmed after moon sighting.
Last updated: 8 November 2026
| Date (2027) | Holiday | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fri 1 Jan | New Year's Day | |
| Mon 8 – Thu 11 Mar | Eid al-Fitr holiday expected | Expected — depends on moon sighting; may move by a day (29 Ramadan to 3 Shawwal) |
| Sat 15 May | Arafat Day expected | Expected — depends on moon sighting; may move by a day |
| Sun 16 – Tue 18 May | Eid al-Adha expected | Expected — depends on moon sighting; may move by a day |
| Sun 6 Jun | Islamic New Year expected | Expected — depends on moon sighting; may move by a day |
| Sat 14 Aug | Prophet Muhammad's Birthday expected | Expected — depends on moon sighting; may move by a day |
| Thu 2 – Fri 3 Dec | National Day (Eid Al Etihad) |
How UAE holidays work
Since 2024 the same holiday list applies to government and private-sector employees. The Islamic holidays are set by the moon-sighting committee, so the exact days are announced only shortly before. The Cabinet may move some holidays (but not the Eid holidays) to the start or end of the week to create long weekends; holidays that fall on the Saturday–Sunday weekend are not moved. Commemoration Day (1 December) is marked alongside National Day; check the Cabinet announcement for the final days off.
Travel tips for 2027
Ramadan is expected to start around Monday 8 February 2027. During Ramadan many restaurants open later, and eating in public during fasting hours is discouraged. The Eid holidays and National Day are peak times for short breaks, so flights and hotels in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and the northern emirates get busy. See Ramadan 2027.
Frequently asked questions
- When is Eid al-Fitr 2027 in the UAE?
- It is expected around 9–10 March 2027, with the holiday from 29 Ramadan to 3 Shawwal; confirmed after moon sighting.
- Do private-sector employees get the same holidays?
- Yes, under Cabinet Resolution No. 27 of 2024 the list applies to both sectors.
- When is UAE National Day 2027?
- 2–3 December 2027 (Thursday–Friday).
Sources: UAE Government Portal – Public holidays · Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation