UAE residents eagerly anticipate an incredible long weekend this May. Arafah Day and Eid Al Adha provide a massive public holiday.

Astronomers expect the Islamic month of Dhu Al Hijjah to begin on May 18. This timing means Arafah Day likely falls on Tuesday, May 26.

The Longest Break of the Year

The official Eid Al Adha break follows Arafah Day immediately. The UAE Cabinet approved public holidays from Wednesday through Friday.

These four official days merge with the regular weekend seamlessly. Most workers will enjoy a wonderful six-day extended holiday.

How to Get Nine Days Off

Smart planners can easily stretch this break much further. You only need to take one single day of annual leave. Simply request Monday, May 25, off from your employer.

This simple trick links the two weekends perfectly together. You will unlock nine consecutive days of pure relaxation. This creates the perfect window for international travel or family gatherings.

Remember that official moon sightings ultimately confirm these exact dates. You should check the final government announcements closer to May.

Understanding Hajj and Arafah Day

The sacred Hajj pilgrimage represents a crucial pillar of Islam. Millions of devoted Muslims gather in Makkah every single year. The 2026 Hajj season kicks off around May 25.

Pilgrims enter a deep state of purity called ihram. They walk around the Kaaba and pray passionately.

Arafah Day marks the spiritual peak of this holy journey. Pilgrims stand on the plains of Arafat in intense prayer. Prophet Muhammad emphasized that Hajj absolutely requires this exact moment.

GCC Holiday Schedules

Neighboring Gulf countries also celebrate this major religious occasion. Here are the expected holiday schedules across the region:

Saudi Arabia

• Arafat Day begins the official holiday on Tuesday, May 26.

• Eid Al Adha holidays continue through Friday, May 29.

Oman

• Omani citizens start their Eid celebrations on Wednesday, May 27.

• The official public break concludes on Friday, May 29.

Qatar

• Qatar combines Arafat Day and Eid into one long break.

• The official holiday runs from Tuesday, May 26, through Friday.

Bahrain

• Bahrain observes Arafat Day on Tuesday, May 26.

• Festivities and public holidays continue until Friday, May 29.

Kuwait

• Kuwait honors Arafat Day starting Tuesday, May 26.

• The religious holiday lasts until Friday, May 29.

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