Start planning your long weekend.

UAE residents: Ramadan is currently underway, which means it’s only a matter of time before we celebrate Eid al-Fitr. And if you haven’t planned your holidays yet, there’s still time, because the UAE government has announced a holiday date for public and private sector employees.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has confirmed that private sector employees in the UAE will receive a paid Eid al-Fitr holiday from Thursday, 19 March to Saturday, 21 March 2026. If Ramadan lasts 30 days, the holiday will be extended to Sunday, 22 March 2026. Employees will return to work on Monday, 22 March, resulting in a four-day weekend.

If four days off isn’t enough, a little forward planning can stretch the break even further. By booking annual leave from Monday to Thursday, 16 to 19 March 2026, you can turn the Eid holidays into nine consecutive days away from work, running from Saturday 14 March through Sunday 22 March 2026, including weekends and the public holiday.

Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and the start of Shawwal. It’s a celebratory period for Muslims around the world as they gather with their loved ones to exchange pleasantries, gifts, and indulge in a selection of desserts. The UAE lights up during this festive period with plenty on offer across the emirates. Expect a variety of cultural shows, musical performances, and more across the country.

So what are you waiting for? If you haven’t booked your flights or those staycations, now’s the time.

GO: Visit https://u.ae for more information.