Public Holidays in United Arab Emirates for 2026

New Year’s Day Introduction

New Year’s Day, celebrated on January 1st, marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year and is a time of renewal and reflection for many around the world. With roots tracing back to ancient Babylon, where the new year was celebrated with a festival called Akitu, this holiday has evolved into a global phenomenon characterized by various traditions and festivities. In many cultures, it is customary to make resolutions for self-improvement, a practice that encourages personal growth and goal-setting. Interestingly, some countries, such as China and Vietnam, celebrate their New Year on different dates according to lunar calendars, showcasing the diverse ways people mark this occasion. Fireworks, parades, and family gatherings are common, symbolizing hope and new beginnings. New Year’s Day is not just a celebration; it is a time for people to come together, express gratitude, and set intentions for the year ahead.

Leilat al-Meiraj (The Prophet’s Ascension) Introduction

Leilat al-Meiraj, also known as the Night of Ascension, is a significant Islamic holiday commemorating the miraculous journey of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Jerusalem and his subsequent ascension to the heavens. This event, which took place in the year 621 CE, is marked by deep spiritual significance and is observed on the 27th day of the Islamic month of Rajab. During this night, Muslims believe that the Prophet was taken on a celestial journey, known as Isra and Mi’raj, where he met other prophets and received divine instructions, including the command for the five daily prayers. This holiday emphasizes faith, devotion, and the connection between the earthly and the divine. Celebrations often include prayers, storytelling, and reflections on the importance of prayer in a Muslim’s life. In various cultures, special meals and communal gatherings are also part of the observance, highlighting unity and spiritual growth among the community.

Ramadan Start Introduction

Ramadan Start marks the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan, observed by millions of Muslims worldwide. This significant time is characterized by fasting from dawn until sunset, prayer, reflection, and community. Ramadan commemorates the month in which the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. Interestingly, the exact start date of Ramadan varies each year, depending on the lunar Islamic calendar and the sighting of the moon, making it a time of anticipation for many. Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, symbolizing self-discipline and empathy for the less fortunate. The month culminates in Eid al-Fitr, a joyous celebration that brings families together, marking the end of fasting and offering gratitude for the spiritual growth achieved during this sacred period.

Eid al-Fitr Introduction

Eid al-Fitr, often referred to as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” is one of the most significant religious holidays celebrated by Muslims worldwide. Marking the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, Eid al-Fitr is a joyous occasion that emphasizes gratitude, community, and charity. Traditionally, it begins with a special prayer service at mosques or open fields, where congregants gather to express their appreciation to Allah for the strength to complete the fast. This day is characterized by festive meals, often featuring sweet delicacies, and the giving of Zakat al-Fitr, a form of charity intended to support those in need. Interestingly, Eid al-Fitr doesn’t have a fixed date, as it is determined by the sighting of the moon, resulting in celebrations that may vary by a day or two across different regions. The holiday fosters a sense of unity among Muslims, as families and friends come together, exchange gifts, and enjoy communal feasts.

March Equinox Introduction

The March Equinox, also known as the Vernal Equinox, marks the moment when day and night are approximately equal in length, occurring around March 20 or 21 each year in the Northern Hemisphere. This astronomical event heralds the arrival of spring, symbolizing renewal and rebirth in many cultures. Interestingly, the word “equinox” derives from Latin, meaning “equal night.” Various traditions celebrate this transition; for example, the Persian New Year, Nowruz, falls on the March Equinox, emphasizing themes of regeneration and harmony with nature. Additionally, ancient civilizations, like the Mayans, constructed monuments aligned with celestial events, showcasing their deep connection to the rhythms of the Earth. As nature awakens, the March Equinox serves as a reminder of the cyclical patterns of life, inspiring various festivals and rituals worldwide that honor fertility, growth, and the re-emergence of vibrant life.