GCC country guides

Holiday calendar

Public Holidays in the GCC (2026 & 2027): UAE, Saudi, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman

Official public holidays for every Gulf country - the next holiday, Eid dates, National Days and long weekends for 2026 & 2027.

Quick answer

Every GCC country sets its own public holiday list: Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha everywhere, plus National Day and other national or religious days. Pick a country for its next holiday and the full 2026 & 2027 lists.

Next public holiday in each country

Frequently asked questions

Why do Eid dates change every year?

Islamic holidays follow the lunar Hijri calendar, about 11 days shorter than the Gregorian year, and the final day is set by the moon sighting - so they move earlier each year and can shift by a day.

What is the weekend in the GCC?

Friday-Saturday in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Oman; Saturday-Sunday for most employers in the UAE.

Are public holidays paid for private-sector workers?

Yes. Every GCC labour law makes official holidays paid, and anyone who has to work one is owed extra pay or a replacement day off.

Working in the Gulf?

Calculate your end-of-service gratuity and know your rights in every GCC country.

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