as Ramadan With 2026 in full swing and Shawwal ever closer, millions of residents and workers across the UAE are preparing for Eid al-Fitr, one of the most important religious and cultural celebrations in the Muslim world. In addition to the fun and celebration, residents also need to know their legal rights as employees, especially if they are asked to work during this official public holiday holiday Or want to make the most of your vacation.The UAE observes Eid al-Fitr as a paid public holiday every year, marking the end of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. The exact start date depends on lunar sightings after Ramadan, but authorities have announced that the Eid al-Fitr holiday in 2026 may run from Thursday, March 19 to Sunday, March 22, giving many workers four days off. Government employees will enjoy the entire holiday, while private sector workers will definitely take a break from March 19 to 21, with the possibility of extending the break if Ramadan lasts for 30 days.
Eid al-Fitr 2026: Can your employer let you work? This is what the law stipulates
While most employees look forward to reuniting with their families and traveling, the UAE’s labor laws protect workers’ rights during public holidays, including Eid al-Fitr, and set out clear compensation rules for workers required to work during these days.
What are the labor laws in the UAE? Employed It’s Eid al-Fitr
According to Federal Decree No. 33 of 2021 (UAE Labor Law), workers are entitled to official leave with full pay on public holidays established by the Cabinet, such as Eid al-Fitr. These leaves are part of standard benefits that protect employees’ time and income.However, in certain industries, notably hospitality, retail, healthcare and essential services, employers may require employees to work on public holidays due to operational needs. If work is required during Eid, the law provides for two legal compensation options that employers must offer:
- Alternative Paid Time Off: The employee receives compensatory leave with full pay at a future date;
- Premium payment: Employees receive regular daily wages plus at least 50% of basic wages
salary Holiday working hours.
In practice, this means that you cannot work during Eid without receiving appropriate compensation (leave or extra pay), and if your employer asks you to work during the holiday, you must respect one of these options.
What to do if your UAE employer doesn’t compensate you correctly for Eid work
If you believe your employer requires you to work during Eid but does not provide you with the compensation required by law:
- Start by asking the question internally: Speak with your Human Resources department or direct supervisor and explain your rights under the law.
- Keep records: Save payslips, emails or timesheets showing that you worked on the Eid public holiday but were not properly paid.
- To file a complaint with MoHRE: If internal resolution fails, you can file a formal complaint with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), which handles industrial disputes in the UAE’s private sector.
- Mediation by the Ministry of Health: The Department will review your complaint and attempt to mediate between you and your employer to ensure compliance with labor laws.
The role of MoHRE is crucial as it ensures that employers comply with the law and protect the rights of workers without discrimination, regardless of their nationality or sector of work.
Eid Al Fitr in the UAE: More than just a public holiday
While Eid al-Fitr has important legal implications for work rights, it is primarily a day of celebration, reflection and family reunion across the UAE. Muslims across the country gather to perform Eid prayers, share food, visit relatives and exchange “Eid Mubarak” greetings. The holiday also provides many expats and residents with the opportunity to travel, relax or explore the rich culture of the UAE.
Warning for UAE workers: Don’t work during Eid without reading this article first
The aftermath of Ramadan, and especially Eid al-Fitr, is also a time when many people take annual leave to extend their downtime. With Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr approaching in March 2026, strategic planning of annual leave around these public holidays may lead to longer breaks, travel opportunities and family time.
UAE holiday dates and Eid planning tips
Here are the possible Eid al-Fitr holidays in the UAE in 2026:
- Public sector – Thursday, March 19, through Sunday, March 22; government and federal entities closed for four days; resumes Monday, March 23.
- Private sector – Thursday, March 19 to Saturday, March 21; three days of rest guaranteed. If Ramadan is 30 days, it is extended to Sunday, March 22nd.
The exact date depends on confirmation of official lunar sightings on the 29th of Ramadan. Eid al-Fitr is not just an official day of rest, it is part of the UAE’s cultural calendar and touches every resident’s life, from school schedules to workplace planning and tourism markets. Knowing your rights can help you:
- Plan your vacation strategically
- Make sure you are legally compensated for working on holiday
- Avoid misunderstandings with employers
- Enjoy your vacation without violating labor regulations
With the holiday dates widely announced and the law clear on compensation requirements, both workers and employers can prepare for Eid al-Fitr 2026 with confidence and clarity. For most workers, the Eid al-Fitr 2026 holiday in the UAE is expected to be from March 19 to March 22, depending on moon viewing conditions. UAE labor laws provide for compensation for employees working on public holidays, either in the form of additional wages (minimum 50% of premium) or in the form of days off. If workers’ rights are not respected, they can lodge a complaint with the MoHRE. Eid al-Fitr is both a festive holiday on the UAE’s employment calendar and a milestone for labor rights.
