Eid Al Adha 2026 in the UAE: Official Dates, Festivities, and the Best Offers
Ramadan might still be fresh in our memories, but enthusiasts of Islamic occasions in the UAE have already started the countdown to the biggest religious event in the second half of the year: Eid Al Adha 2026. The question on everyone's mind now is: When will the Day of Arafah fall? And when will we celebrate Eid? As always, the answer depends on the moon.
Eid Al Adha 2026 Date: United or Divided?
Astronomically, it's established that Eid Al Adha falls on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah. But here in the UAE, we all await the announcement from the Moon Sighting Committee. This year, it's anticipated that the Day of Arafah will be on Thursday, 16th July 2026, making the first day of Eid Friday, 17th July. However, this remains subject to the official sighting.
What's interesting this year is that a number of countries will experience what's known as a "difference in confirming Eid." While countries like Mauritius will rely on astronomical calculations, others such as Libya will adhere strictly to physical sighting. This means Libyans might observe the Day of Arafah a day after us. The same scenario plays out in Jordan, where local sighting is the deciding factor, and similarly in Nepal, whose unique geographical position makes moon sighting a particular challenge.
Eid Differences Within a Single Country: The Malaysia Story
Even within one country, we can see variations. In Malaysia, each state will announce its own date separately. This year, it's expected that the states of Kelantan (KTN) and Terengganu (TRG) will differ from the rest of the Malaysian states in determining Eid, a situation Malaysians have been accustomed to for decades. For those travelling from the UAE to these destinations during Eid Al Adha 2026, my advice is to keep an eye on local announcements as soon as you arrive.
The UAE is Set for an Exceptional Eid
In our country, Eid Al Adha means one thing: family time and generosity. But this year, get ready for even bigger surprises. The major shopping centres in Dubai and Abu Dhabi have already started preparing for massive promotional campaigns. Remember the last Eid sales? Some shops offered discounts of up to 90%, and this year will be no different. Whether you're after the latest fashion trends or electronics deals, the period from now until Eid is the perfect time to plan your purchases.
5 Unmissable Events for Eid Al Adha 2026
- Fireworks at Dubai Festival City: An annual tradition that brings thousands together under the Dubai sky.
- The Traditional Eid Tent in Abu Dhabi: An ideal spot to taste authentic Emirati dishes amidst heritage activities.
- Eid Sales at The Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates: An unmissable opportunity to buy your Eid essentials with prices starting from just 20 dirhams.
- Children's Activities at Khor Park: Fireworks, drawing workshops, and free swings throughout the Eid holidays.
- Special Hotel Offers: Eid lunch at hotels on the Palm Jumeirah is being offered this year with discounts of up to 50% for early bookings.
Expert Tip: Plan Your Holiday Now
Whether you're a travel enthusiast or prefer to spend Eid in the UAE, pay close attention to the dates. If you're travelling to Jordan or Libya, calculate the Day of Arafah based on the country you're going to, not according to the UAE's announcement. And if you're spending Eid here, don't miss the offers that are released at least two weeks before the big day. Eid Mubarak to you and your family.