The UAE Council for Fatwa has confirmed that Eid Al Fitr 2026 will begin on Friday, March 20
After the Shawwal crescent moon was not sighted on Wednesday, March 18. This means Ramadan will last a full 30 days this year, with Thursday, March 19 marking the final day of the holy month, according to the findings of the Shawwal Moon Sighting Committee.
Thursday completes Ramadan; Friday marks first day of Eid Al-Fitr in UAE: Presidential Court#WamNews https://t.co/ZOICswpjxS pic.twitter.com/DdPnRxlPN8
— WAM English (@WAMNEWS_ENG) March 18, 2026
What is Eid Al Fitr?
Eid al Fitr is also known as the ‘Festival of Breaking of the Fast’ and is one of two official holidays celebrated in Islam. It is celebrated by Muslims worldwide and marks the end of Ramadan.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam, which is the foundation of the religion. The pillars are the framework by which Muslims everywhere live, and Ramadan is considered the holiest time in the Islamic calendar. It is a time for prayer, reflection, and religious devotion, to cleanse past sins and to focus on Allah through good deeds.
You can learn more about Ramadan here.
When is the Eid break in 2026?
Employees across the UAE will begin their Eid holiday tomorrow on Thursday, March 19, 2026.
Both the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation have confirmed the following dates:
• Public sector: Thursday, March 19 to Sunday, March 22
• Private sector: Thursday, March 19 to Sunday, March 22
That means many residents can look forward to a four-day break, and resume work on Monday, March 23
Looking for things to do this Eid Al Fitr 2026?
We’ve rounded up 20 free things to do and 8 fun family-friendly activities to enjoy this weekend.
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