CultureTraditionsMarch 17, 2026
Eid in UAE: Your Complete Guide to 2026 Festivities
Eid in UAE is a special experience. There are lights in every street, the smell of special foods is in every home, and there is a sense of happiness in every place. Whether you are a long-term resident or it's your first time in the UAE, you would agree that Eid in UAE is certainly a wonderful time of the year.
Eid Al Fitr and Eid ul Adha in UAE celebrations begin with Eid prayers, followed by family gatherings and practices that have been around for a long time. From the loud streets of Dubai and Abu Dhabi to the peaceful environments of Sharjah, Fujairah, and Ras Al Khaimah, the UAE is a country that is alive and vibrant.
This blog covers everything you need to know, from Eid prayer timings and Emirati customs to the best activities to enjoy in Dubai during the celebrations. We will also guide you to the best places to visit across the UAE during the Eid holidays and offer tips to make the most of your time.
Mosques and open prayer grounds across the UAE fill with worshippers from early morning. The vibe during Eid prayers is unlike any other time of the year. Some of the most well-known mosques include:
Eid in the UAE is not just a public holiday; it is a deeply rooted cultural experience. Here are some of the Eid celebrations Dubai and traditions you’ll see across the country:
Following prayer and family gatherings, many activities can be enjoyed during Eid in UAE, including the top places to visit during Eid holidays in UAE, which are suitable for all ages, such as
When Eid arrives, the entire country transforms. Cities are filled with lights and festive decorations, shopping malls host special events and promotions, and the skies light up with fireworks. Many tourist spots extend their hours during the Eid holiday to welcome visitors, offering a wide range of Eid activities in Dubai.
Eid in the UAE is a mix of deeply personal experiences, prayers, family meals, giving, and publicly joyful celebrations such as concerts, street performances, live shows in malls, and fireworks lighting up the sky. Many residents also take advantage of the holiday to travel, explore other Emirates, or go on short trips, making it the perfect long Eid to enjoy a variety of things to do in Dubai during Eid and discover even more of what this country has to offer.
When is Eid in UAE in 2026?
Eid al-Fitr 2026 in UAE
Eid Al Fitr UAE, which marks the end of Ramadan, is expected to fall in the UAE in 2026 around March 20 or 21, depending on the sighting of the moon. The exact date depends on the moon’s appearance. The UAE Moon Sighting Committee makes the official announcement after observing the crescent moon on the 29th night of Ramadan. Once confirmed, UAE residents can expect an official public holiday of approximately 3 days during the UAE Eid holidays, providing everyone with sufficient time to celebrate with family, take short trips, and enjoy the festive vibes across the Emirates.Eid Al Adha 2026 in UAE
Eid Al Adha UAE in 2026 is expected around May 27–28, subject to the official moon sighting. The UAE has 4 days of official public holidays during Eid Al Adha. Many families also get together and participate in this sacrifice ritual and distribute the meat among their families, friends, and those in need. It is an occasion of giving, thanks, and bonding.Eid Prayer in UAE
Eid Prayer Time in Dubai
The Eid prayer is performed in congregation, 30 to 45 minutes after sunrise. The time of prayer in Dubai varies from 6:15 AM to 7:00 AM, depending on the time of year. The General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments announces the timing of the Eid prayer closer to the date. It is recommended to get your news from local sources. Prayer times may vary slightly in other Emirates. Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah may differ by a few minutes, so it’s always wise to check with your local mosque beforehand.Famous Mosques for Eid Prayer in UAE
Mosques and open prayer grounds across the UAE fill with worshippers from early morning. The vibe during Eid prayers is unlike any other time of the year. Some of the most well-known mosques include:
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi One of the most breathtaking mosques in the world. During Eid, it welcomes large crowds, and the vibes are deeply moving.
- Jumeirah Mosque, Dubai A beautiful city landmark, open to Muslim worshippers and visitors eager to learn more about Islamic culture.
- Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque, Dubai One of the most striking mosques in Dubai, inspired by Hagia Sophia, attracts large congregations during both Eids.
- Grand Mosque Dubai (Diwan Mosque) One of the oldest mosques in the city, located in Bur Dubai, holds a special place in the hearts of long-time residents.
Eid Traditions in Emirates
Eid in the UAE is not just a public holiday; it is a deeply rooted cultural experience. Here are some of the Eid celebrations Dubai and traditions you’ll see across the country:
Family Gatherings
The center of any Eid celebration in UAE is a family. Everyone travels from different places, sometimes even from different countries, to meet and spend quality time with their loved ones. The day begins with prayer, then visiting grandparents, aunts, and uncles. Homes are filled with the sound of laughter and warmth.Eidiya for Children
Children across the UAE look forward to Eid for one reason: Eidiya. Elders give children money and sometimes gifts as a gesture of love and celebration. It is one of the happiest aspects of Eid for younger generations, a tradition that families maintain year after year.Traditional Emirati Food
No Eid table is complete without traditional food. Some of the most popular dishes during Eid in the UAE include:- Harees: A slow-cooked dish of wheat and meat, rich in flavor and deeply connected to Emirati culture, a staple on Eid tables.
- Machboos: Spiced rice with meat or chicken, warm and aromatic. Every family has its own recipe, always a highlight of the meal.
- Luqaimat: Golden, crispy dumplings drizzled with date syrup or honey, freshly made at homes and Eid events.
Traditional Dances and Cultural Performances
Eid celebrations in the UAE are made more vibrant with cultural shows and dances. Yowlah is a traditional dance of Emiratis, which is performed during cultural and national events and is based on traditional drum beats and poetry.Wearing Traditional Clothes
Dressing up for Eid is part of the celebration and one of the most visible Eid traditions Emirates are known for. Emirati men wear crisp white kanduras, often with a bisht for special occasions, and women wear stunning abayas with intricate embroidery, at times in bright colors, and proudly flaunt their Emirati identities.Activities to Enjoy During Eid in UAE
Following prayer and family gatherings, many activities can be enjoyed during Eid in UAE, including the top places to visit during Eid holidays in UAE, which are suitable for all ages, such as
Parks and Outdoor Spaces
The families can enjoy a picnic in parks such as Dubai Miracle Garden or Mushrif Park in Abu Dhabi, where children can also enjoy playing in designated areas and the fresh air, making it one of the best things to do on Eid in Dubai.Theme Parks
Eid is also the best time to visit theme parks in the UAE, and these are IMG Worlds of Adventure, Ferrari World, and Motiongate Dubai. These theme parks are fun and entertaining for all ages.Boat Trips and Cruises
For an unusual experience and to enjoy a wonderful view of Dubai and Abu Dhabi city skylines, you can take a boat tour or a yacht cruise.Dining Experiences
People can enjoy special meals in various restaurants in UAE that offer special Eid meals, ranging from festive meals to traditional Emirati cuisine.Cultural and Heritage Experiences
Another form of experience is available in UAE in terms of cultural and heritage tours, and this can be availed in Abu Dhabi Heritage Village and Dubai Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, where one can have a traditional dance called Yowlah.Family and Kids’ Events
Some malls and entertainment hubs also arrange special events for kids during Eid holidays like theater shows, art and craft activities, cooking classes, and games, so it becomes a fun-filled experience for all. By selecting activities of your own interest, families and friends can enjoy a blend of old and new with a memorable and joyful celebration of Eid.What to Expect During Eid in UAE?
When Eid arrives, the entire country transforms. Cities are filled with lights and festive decorations, shopping malls host special events and promotions, and the skies light up with fireworks. Many tourist spots extend their hours during the Eid holiday to welcome visitors, offering a wide range of Eid activities in Dubai.
Eid in the UAE is a mix of deeply personal experiences, prayers, family meals, giving, and publicly joyful celebrations such as concerts, street performances, live shows in malls, and fireworks lighting up the sky. Many residents also take advantage of the holiday to travel, explore other Emirates, or go on short trips, making it the perfect long Eid to enjoy a variety of things to do in Dubai during Eid and discover even more of what this country has to offer.
