How long is the Eid Al Adha holiday in the UAE?

The UAE usually gives about 4 days off for Eid Al Adha, covering Arafat Day plus the Eid days. In 2026, both public and private workers are expected to get 4 days off. But the exact dates depend on moon sightings and official announcements, so they might shift a bit.

Is Eid-al-Adha 3 days or 4 days?

Eid Al-Adha lasts 3 days. But in the UAE, the holiday often includes Arafat Day too, making it 4 days off officially. So, the festival itself is 3 days, but most people get 4 days to celebrate and relax.

Celebrating Eid Al-Adha in Dubai

Pray for wellness and sacrifice and enjoy the festival!

18 May 2026

5 min read

Author: Kajal Sharma

Celebrating Eid Al-Adha in Dubai

Whether you are a Dubai resident or someone planning your long Eid break or a visitor looking to experience the old Emirati traditions, then this complete 2026 guide will be perfect for you. It will include the official holiday dates, the best things to do, travel tips, staycation hotels, traditional food, and prayer timings.

Well, a leading travel agency in Dubai, is also ready to help you in planning the Eid trip for you.

Eid Al-Adha Dates in Dubai 2026

Eid Al-Adha 2026 in Dubai is expected to begin on Wednesday, 27 May 2026, following Arafat Day on Tuesday, 26 May 2026. The exact date is subject to the official crescent moon sighting by the UAE moon-sighting committee, scheduled for 17 May 2026.

Arafat Day (Day of Arafah): Tuesday, 26 May 2026
Eid Al-Adha Day 1: Wednesday, 27 May 2026
Eid Al-Adha Day 2: Thursday, 28 May 2026
Eid Al-Adha Day 3: Friday, 29 May 2026
The weekend: Saturday, 30, and Sunday 31 May 2026

Important Note: The exact dates will be based on the crescent moon.

Eid Al-Adha Prayer Time in Dubai 2026

Eid al Adha or the festival of sacrifice is one of the most famous occasions in the Islamic calendar, which is celebrated across the UAE and Dubai marks it with a stunning mix of traditions and world-class festivities. From Eid prayers at the most famous Jumeirah Mosque to spectacular fireworks over the Burj Khalifa. Dubai is the only nation that is a city loaded with community reforms, celebrations, and culture during the Eid holidays.

Eid Al-Adha begins with the morning congregation prayer, held at mosques across Dubai shortly after sunrise. Here are the key prayer locations and timings:

Jumeirah Mosque – 5:45 am
Other general Dubai mosques: 6:15 am to 7 am

Tip: It will be best if you arrive at these mosques at least 30 minutes early for the special Eid Al-Adha prayers.

Best Things to do During Eid Al-Adha in Dubai 2026

Dubai will give you the mix of experiences like fireworks at Burj Khalifa, and the Eid markets. If you want to make memories in Eid style, then do plan your visit now. Also, here are some of the best things to do in Dubai 2026 during Eid Al-Adha.

Best things to do During Eid 2026	Details
Dubai beach and JBR walk	Enjoy the Eid atmosphere along Jumeirah Beach, JBR, and The Walk — packed with pop-up stalls, entertainment, and family fun.
Al-Fahidi Historical neighbourhood	Explore Dubai's heritage and culture at the Al Fahidi Fort, traditional wind-tower houses, and local souks decorated beautifully for Eid.
Dubai fountain show	Watch the world's largest choreographed fountain dance against the backdrop of the Burj Khalifa. Free to watch from the Boardwalk
Rooftop dining at CE LA VI Dubai	Celebrate Eid with panoramic Burj Khalifa views on the 54th floor of Address Sky View. Open daily noon–3 AM.
IMG Worlds of Adventure Dubai	The world's largest indoor theme park — perfect for family thrills during the Eid long weekend.
Global Village (Special Eid market)	A vibrant multicultural festival with 90+ countries, traditional food, games, live shows, and special Eid fireworks. Open 4 PM – 1 AM.
Eid Prayer at Jumeirah Mosque	One of Dubai's most iconic mosques, holding over 1,200 worshippers. Prayer begins at 5:45 AM. Arrive 30 minutes early.
Fireworks at Burj Khalifa	The most spectacular Eid display in Dubai lights up the Downtown Dubai skyline at approximately 9:00–9:30 PM each evening of Eid. Location: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai.

Eid Al-Adha Staycation in Dubai 2026

Dubai's top hotels offer exclusive Eid packages and experiences. Book at least 2–3 weeks in advance as demand spikes during the long Eid break and prices rise significantly.

Hotels	Hotel Details
Sofitel Dubai The Palm	French luxury beachfront resort with a private beach, pools, a kids' club, and stunning Palm Jumeirah views.
Burj Al-Arab Jumeirah	The world's most iconic hotel —an unforgettable Eid experience with butler service and exclusive Eid menus.
Atlantis The Palm	Iconic Palm Jumeirah resort with Aqua venture Waterpark access, private beach, and world-class Eid dining.

Traditional Eid Al-Adha Food in Dubai

Food is at the heart of every Eid Al-Adha celebration. These are the must-try traditional dishes you will find in Dubai homes and restaurants during Eid:

Ouzi: Slow-cooked lamb or goat gently braised and served over spiced rice, garnished with fried pine nuts. A centerpiece of UAE Eid celebrations.
Machboos: Fragrant spiced rice with tender chicken or lamb. The UAE's answer to biryani, made distinct by its special spice blend and dried lime.
Mutton Korma: Rich, creamy curry with tender mutton in a spiced yogurt gravy. Best served with freshly baked bread or rice.
Harees: Slow-cooked wheat blended with lamb — a classic Emirati dish served throughout the Gulf during Eid and Ramadan.
Baklava & Luqaimat: Traditional Arabic sweets made with honey, phyllo pastry, and dough balls drizzled with date syrup. No Eid is complete without them.

Travel Tips for Eid Al-Adha in Dubai

1. Book hotels and tours early: Prices surge by 30–50% during Eid. Book at least 2-3 weeks in advance.

2. Arrive at Dubai International Airport early: Allow at least 3 hours before departure. The airport is significantly busier during public holidays.

3. Visit attractions in the morning or late evening: Malls, beaches, and tourist spots are extremely crowded midday during Eid.

4. Respect the dress code: While Dubai is more relaxed than Sharjah, cover shoulders and knees in all malls, mosques, and public areas.

5. Follow mosque social media: Eid prayer timings and fireworks schedules are often confirmed just 24–48 hours before the event.

6. Use the Dubai Metro: Roads around Downtown Dubai and Burj Khalifa will be heavily congested during fireworks nights. Take the Metro to Union or Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station.

For a hassle-free holiday experience, consider booking Dubai Tour Packages in advance to secure the best rates and availability during Eid.

Eid Mubarak Everyone!

Dubai is the place to be this Eid al-Adha, no matter what you're into! Want to learn more about Islam? Visit the Jumeirah Mosque. Want some thrills? Check out the Global Village Dubai! This Eid, skip the boring stuff and make it amazing in Dubai with Next Holidays. Book your hotel, explore cool places, enjoy yummy food, and most importantly, celebrate with your family and friends at the best places to visit in Dubai.

Let us make this Eid Mubarak with sweets and a feast.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Alright, so Eid al-Adha is a big deal in Dubai. Like, one of the main Islamic festivals everyone celebrates. In 2026, Muslims there will do the special prayers and Qurbani and spend time with family. The whole city lights up with decorations, sales, events, and stuff for families to do.

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