Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum directed the early disbursement of March salaries to Dubai government employees before Eid Al Fitr. The Crown Prince ordered the salaries to be paid on March 17, allowing employees to better prepare for the upcoming vacation and support their families during the holiday period.This directive comes at a time when the UAE announced official holiday arrangements for workers in the public and private sectors to celebrate the celebration. This move highlights the government’s ongoing efforts to promote a positive and supportive work environment for employees, especially during events of cultural significance.
Federal holiday for Eid al-Fitr
The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources confirmed that all ministries, federal institutions, and public sector bodies will be on vacation from March 19 to 22, with official working hours resuming as of March 23.
As for private sector employees, the vacation period will be from March 19 to 21. However, if Ramadan continues for 30 days, the authorities added that the private sector holiday will be extended to include March 22.
When is Eid al-Fitr?
Eid al-Fitr is celebrated from Shawwal 1 to 3, and is classified as a non-transferable public holiday, according to the UAE public holiday calendar. The Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai (IACAD) indicated that Eid Al Fitr is expected to fall on March 20, 2026 and continue until March 22.
Crescent sighting committees will meet on the 29th of Ramadan to officially determine the beginning of Shawwal. If the crescent moon is sighted on March 18, Eid will begin on March 19, which could lead to a four-day break from March 19 to 22, with Sunday coinciding with the usual weekend.
