Public Holidays in UAE 2027: the UAE's vibrant calendar explained
UAE is a vibrant and diverse nation that offers a wealth of experiences for both residents and visitors. With its stunning landscapes, modern cities, rich cultural heritage, and exciting events, there's always something to discover in the Emirates.
With a plethora of planned public holidays in the UAE for 2027, let's dive into all the national holidays in the UAE and see what 2027 has to offer for all UAE residents.
UAE Public Holidays Calendar 2027
Below is the expected calendar for public holidays in 2027, applicable to both the public and private sectors (Islamic holiday dates are expected dates, subject to moon sighting and official announcement):
Public Holiday | Date (Estimated) | Day |
New Year’s Day | 1 January 2027 | Friday |
Eid Al Fitr | 9 - 11 March 2027 (from 8 March if Ramadan has 30 days) | Tuesday - Thursday |
Arafat Day | 15 May 2027 | Saturday |
Eid Al Adha | 16 - 18 May 2027 | Sunday - Tuesday |
Islamic New Year | 6 June 2027 | Sunday |
Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (PBUH) | 14 August 2027 | Saturday |
UAE National Day (Union Day) | 2 - 3 December 2027 | Thursday & Friday |
Public Holidays in UAE 2027
Here is your go-to sheet for all the Emirates public holidays in 2027. This is the expected 2027 official holidays calendar for both public sector holidays and private sector holidays in the UAE; the official 2027 dates for the Islamic holidays will be confirmed by the UAE authorities closer to the time.
New Year's Day 2027
The UAE celebrates New Year’s Day on 1st January, which falls on a Friday in 2027. Together with the Saturday and Sunday weekend, this creates a perfect 3-day long weekend (Friday to Sunday) for families to gather and enjoy the world-class fireworks displays in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Many people choose to experience the magic of New Year's Eve 2027 in Dubai.
This is because Dubai is the primary host of numerous significant events in the United Arab Emirates.
Eid Al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan. Astronomically, it is expected to begin on Tuesday, 9th March 2027, with the official holiday covering 1 to 3 Shawwal (Tuesday to Thursday), plus Monday 8th March if Ramadan lasts 30 days. The exact dates are subject to moon sighting and official announcement. During this time, the streets are beautifully decorated with traditional lanterns, and the country comes alive with major shopping festivals and entertainment events.
Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha 2027
Eid Al Adha is one of the most significant festivals in the Islamic calendar.
Arafat Day: Expected on Saturday, 15th May 2027 (which falls on the weekend).
Eid Al Adha: Expected to begin on Sunday, 16th May, and last until Tuesday, 18th May (3 days), subject to moon sighting and official announcement. Schools and most businesses will be closed, so ensure you complete any urgent tasks before this break.
Also Read :
Prophet Mohammed's birthday (Mawlid Al-Nabi)
Prophet Mohammed's birthday, also known as Mawlid Al-Nabi, is a significant religious holiday observed with deep reverence by Muslims. It falls on 12 Rabi' Al-Awwal and is expected on Saturday, 14th August 2027 (subject to moon sighting and official announcement).
UAE National Day 2027
The UAE National Day holiday is celebrated annually on 2nd and 3rd December, which fall on Thursday and Friday in 2027, giving a 4-day weekend. It is celebrated to remember the history of the UAE and the heritage of this great country.
To learn more, read “UAE National Day 2027: The History Behind the Magic”
From the joyous celebrations of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha to the solemn remembrance of the UAE National Day, each public holiday tells a unique story of the United Arab Emirates’s rich heritage
Also Read :
FAQs about UAE Holidays in 2027
Q: How many public holidays are there in the UAE in 2027?
A: There are approximately 12 to 13 days of public holidays, covering both national and religious occasions; some of them (such as Arafat Day and the Prophet's birthday) fall on weekends in 2027 and are not moved to another day. (Note: Islamic holiday dates are subject to moon sightings.)
Q: When are the long weekends in 2027?
New Year: 3 days (Friday - Sunday).
Eid Al Fitr: Expected Tuesday to Thursday (or Monday to Thursday if Ramadan has 30 days).
Eid Al Adha: A break from Sunday through to Tuesday, preceded by Arafat Day on Saturday.
National Day: A 4-day weekend (Thursday - Sunday).
Q: Are public holiday dates different for the private sector? No. Since 2019, the UAE government has unified public holiday dates for both the public and private sectors to ensure a better work-life balance for everyone.
Also Read :
.png)