Ramadan 2026 in the UAE: Expected Start, Eid Al Fitr Dates, and Long Weekend Predictions

Dubai: The holy month of Ramadan 2026 is approaching sooner than you might think, bringing with it a season of fasting, reflection, and spiritual renewal across the UAE. While the official start date depends on the sighting of the crescent moon, early astronomical forecasts already provide a clear indication of when the sacred month will begin, along with expected dates for Eid Al Fitr and the country’s first long weekend of the year.

When Will Ramadan 2026 Begin?

According to Dubai’s Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) Hijri to Gregorian date conversion tool, Ramadan is expected to begin between February 17 and 19, 2026, with the first day of fasting likely falling on Thursday, February 19.

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a period of fasting from dawn to sunset, acts of charity, and spiritual reflection. As always, the precise start will be confirmed after the official moon-sighting committee observes the new crescent moon.

Laylat al-Qadr: The Holiest Night

One of the most significant nights during Ramadan is Laylat al-Qadr, the Night of Power, which marks the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). For 2026, this sacred night is expected to fall on Tuesday, March 17, during the last ten days of Ramadan.

Muslims consider Laylat al-Qadr a time for intense prayer, forgiveness, and reflection, as worship on this night is believed to be equivalent to that of a thousand months.

When Will Ramadan End?

Based on IACAD’s 2026 calendar, Ramadan is expected to conclude on Thursday, March 19, 2026. However, like all Islamic months, it could last 29 or 30 days, depending on the sighting of the crescent moon marking the beginning of the next month, Shawwal.

Eid Al Fitr 2026: The First Long Weekend of the Year

The joyous festival of Eid Al Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, is expected to fall on Friday, March 20, 2026. This would likely result in a three-day public holiday in the UAE, covering the first three days of Shawwal,  and potentially creating an extended long weekend if the holiday overlaps with a Friday or Saturday.

Eid Al Fitr is a time of family gatherings, festive meals, and charitable giving, celebrating the completion of fasting and the spiritual growth achieved during Ramadan.

Ramadan and School Holidays in the UAE

For families, Ramadan 2026 conveniently aligns with school spring breaks, giving students and parents more time to spend together during the holy month.

• Private schools in Dubai that follow the September-to-June academic calendar will observe spring break from March 16 to March 30, 2026.

• Ministry of Education (MOE) curriculum schools will have their spring break from March 16 to March 29, 2026.

This overlap means families can enjoy the final days of Ramadan and Eid celebrations together, extending the festive period into a memorable family holiday.

In summary:

• Expected start of Ramadan 2026: Thursday, February 19

• Laylat al-Qadr: Tuesday, March 17

• Expected end of Ramadan: Thursday, March 19

• Expected Eid Al Fitr: Friday, March 20

• Possible long weekend: March 20–22, 2026

As the UAE prepares for the holy month, residents can look forward to a spiritually uplifting Ramadan, filled with reflection, community, and celebration.