The sighting of the Dhul Hijjah crescent moon in the UAE this past Sunday, May 17, 2026, has officially signaled the start of the final month in the Islamic lunar calendar. With Monday, May 18, marked as the first day of Dhul Hijjah, the schedule for major religious observances is now confirmed. The Day of Arafah is set to take place on Tuesday, May 26, followed immediately by the first day of Eid Al Adha on Wednesday, May 27, aligning perfectly with earlier astronomical projections.

In preparation for the festivities, authorities have already confirmed a five-day public holiday for government staff. Spanning from Monday, May 25, through Friday, May 29, the break connects with the preceding weekend to offer a potential nine-day respite for most employees. For workers in Sharjah, who enjoy a standard three-day weekend, this holiday window creates an even longer ten-day break. Following these celebrations, regular work schedules for the public sector are expected to resume on Monday, June 1.