Astronomical projections indicate that Eid-ul-Fitr in 2026, the holiday marking the end of the Islamic month of fasting, Ramadan, is expected to fall on Friday, 20 March, according to Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Emirates Astronomical Society.

Al Jarwan said the crescent marking the start of Ramadan 1447 AH is expected to fall on Tuesday, 17 February, 2026, though sighting conditions that evening may be challenging. 

Based on these calculations, Ramadan is likely to begin on Thursday, 19 February, and run for 30 days.

If Ramadan completes 30 days, as the projections suggest, the UAE’s approved holiday calendar indicates that Day 30 will be added to the Eid break.

This means residents are likely to receive a four-day weekend, from Thursday, 19 March, to Sunday, 22 March, with work resuming on Monday.

Eid-ul-Fitr marks one of the most significant celebrations in the Islamic calendar, beginning with the Eid prayer at dawn, followed by family gatherings, charitable giving, and community festivities across the country.

If observations align with forecasts, the first day of Shawwal, and therefore Eid-ul-Fitr, will fall on Friday, 20 March, 2026. However, the final confirmation will be issued by the UAE Moon-Sighting Committee closer to the date.