BREAKING: Saudi Arabia has officially announced that Eid Al Fitr 2026 will be celebrated on Friday, March 20, 2026 after the Shawwal crescent moon was sighted on Thursday evening. The UAE is expected to make its official announcement shortly, with most GCC countries likely to follow suit.
Saudi Arabia Confirms Eid Al Fitr on Friday March 20
The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia confirmed the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon on Thursday evening, March 19, 2026, marking the end of Ramadan 1447 AH. This means Eid Al Fitr prayers will be held on Friday, March 20, 2026 across the Kingdom.
The announcement was made through the official Saudi Press Agency (SPA) following moon sighting reports from multiple locations across Saudi Arabia.
Will UAE Follow Saudi Arabia?
The UAE Moon Sighting Committee typically makes its own independent observation. However, in recent years, the UAE has aligned with Saudi Arabia on Eid dates in most cases. The official UAE announcement is expected through WAM (Emirates News Agency) on Thursday evening.
Update: Keep checking WAM and official UAE government channels for the confirmed UAE announcement.
Eid Al Fitr 2026 Official Holiday
- Public Sector: Expected 3-4 days off starting Friday March 20
- Private Sector: MOHRE will announce official dates, usually 2-3 paid holidays
- Schools: Eid break in effect across all emirates
Eid Prayer Times and Locations
Eid prayers on Friday March 20 are expected between 6:00 AM and 7:30 AM across the UAE:
- Eid Musallah: Large open-air prayer grounds in every emirate
- Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque in Dubai
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi
- Community Areas: Residential parks designated for Eid prayers
Best Places to Celebrate Eid in Dubai
- Global Village: Special Eid events, fireworks, and entertainment
- Dubai Mall: Eid decorations, sales, and family entertainment
- Dubai Parks and Resorts: Eid-themed activities and discounted tickets
- Al Seef and Dubai Creek: Traditional heritage celebrations
- Expo City Dubai: Cultural events and family programs
Eid Shopping Deals in UAE
- Dubai Malls: Up to 75% off across major brands
- Online: Amazon.ae, Noon, Namshi special Eid collections
- Gold Souk: Competitive prices at Deira Gold Souk
- Electronics: Major retailers offering bundle deals
Eid Traditions in the UAE
- Eidiya: Money gifts to children and younger family members
- Family Gatherings: Large brunches and lunches
- New Clothes: Traditional Emirati dress is customary
- Zakat Al Fitr: AED 20-25 per person before Eid prayer
- Visiting: Relatives, neighbors, and friends throughout Eid days
Travel During Eid 2026
- Flights and hotels are at peak prices during Eid weekend
- Popular destinations: Turkey, Malaysia, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Maldives
- Arrive 3 hours early at Dubai airports for international flights
- Staycation deals available at UAE hotels
Eid Mubarak! Whether celebrating with family in the UAE or planning a holiday getaway, Eid Al Fitr brings communities together across the Emirates. May this Eid bring joy, peace, and blessings to all.