Find out Eid al-Fitr 2026 dates across the Gulf – Possible 5-day Oman holiday / Image: File
As Ramadan 2026 progresses across the Gulf, attention is now turning to the expected dates for Eid al-Fitr. In Oman, early astronomical calculations indicate a strong possibility that residents will be able to enjoy a five-day public holiday in March.
However, as always, final confirmation will depend on the official sighting of the crescent.
Eid al-Fitr 2026 in Amman
Eid al-Fitr falls at the beginning of Shawwal, the tenth month of the Islamic Hijri calendar. Since the Islamic calendar follows lunar cycles, the exact date of Eid changes every year and can only be confirmed after the crescent is sighted.Astronomers in Oman expect the possibility of seeing the Shawwal crescent on the evening of March 19, 2026 AD.
If this is confirmed, the first day of Eid al-Fitr in Amman will be Friday, March 20, 2026.If the crescent moon is not sighted on March 19, Ramadan will complete 30 days, and Eid will begin on March 21 instead. Official confirmation will come from the Omani authorities after the Maghrib prayer on the twenty-ninth day of Ramadan.
Oman Eid al-Fitr holiday for 5 days
Based on the expected dates and typical holiday structure in Oman, residents can take a five-day break. If the holiday falls on Friday, March 20, the holiday period is expected to start from Thursday, March 19 until Monday, March 23.
The additional Monday holiday compensates for the coincidence of the holiday with the weekend.This would provide one of the region’s longest Eid holidays in 2026, giving families more time for travel, gatherings and celebrations. As is the case with all Islamic holidays, the official announcement will come after the crescent sighting is confirmed.
How does Ramadan timing affect Eid dates?
Ramadan 2026 began on February 19 in many Gulf countries after the sighting of the crescent moon was confirmed.
Because Ramadan lasts either 29 or 30 days, the end date directly determines the start date of Eid.The main factor is seeing the Shawwal crescent. Although astronomical data can predict high chances of sighting, religious authorities must officially verify the sighting before declaring the holiday. This is why residents usually receive confirmation only one day before the holiday begins.
What about the Emirates?
In the United Arab Emirates, it was decided to set the Eid al-Fitr holiday for 2026 from March 19 to 22 for the public sector, with work to resume on March 23.
Private sector employees will get leave from March 19 to March 21, with the possibility of extending to March 22 if Ramadan completes 30 days.Regulated holiday advertising in the UAE guarantees at least four days’ holiday for many residents, regardless of whether Ramadan lasts 29 or 30 days.
Looking forward
For Oman, strong astrological indicators indicate that Friday, March 20, 2026 is Eid al-Fitr, and it will likely be a five-day holiday. For UAE residents, a four-day national holiday has already been included in the calendar, with minor adjustments depending on the sighting of the moon. Final confirmation across the region will depend on official announcements closer to the date.
