Long Break Confirmed as Moon Sighting Event Scheduled for May 17; Students to Enjoy Up to Nine Days Off
DUBAI – The UAE government has officially announced a five-day holiday for the public sector and educational institutions in observance of Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha. According to the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) and Dubai authorities, the break will commence on Monday, May 25, 2026, and conclude on Friday, May 29, 2026.
With the inclusion of the surrounding weekends, many residents and students are set to enjoy a significant nine-day hiatus, with official duties and classes scheduled to resume on Monday, June 1.
Moon Sighting and Astronomical Forecasts
While the holiday dates have been designated based on the academic and civil calendars, the religious commencement of the month depends on the lunar cycle. The Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai has organized a public moon-sighting event at the Jebel Nazwa Trail on May 17.
Astronomical calculations provided by Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Astronomical Society, suggest:
- New Moon Birth: Sunday, May 17, at 12:01 AM UAE time.
- Dhu Al Hijjah Start: Likely Monday, May 18.
- Eid Al Adha (10th Dhu Al Hijjah): Predicted to begin on Wednesday, May 27.
Major Break for Schools Across Emirates
The Ministry of Education has aligned the midterm break for the third academic term with the Eid festivities. This move ensures a synchronized holiday period for students, teachers, and administrative staff across the country.
- Dubai Private Schools: Following the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) guidelines, private schools will remain closed from May 25 to May 29.
- Sharjah Private Schools: The Sharjah Private Education Authority (SPEA) confirmed a similar break, noting that when combined with weekends, students in the emirate will benefit from a 10-day period away from the classroom.
Public Sector and Government Operations
The five-day paid holiday applies to all federal and local government entities. This period covers Arafat Day—the holiest day in Islam and the climax of the Hajj pilgrimage—followed by the three days of Eid Al Adha.
Authorities have extended their well-wishes to the citizens and residents of the UAE, emphasizing that while astronomical data provides a reliable guide, the final dates remain subject to the official announcement by the UAE Moon Sighting Committee.
