UAE public sector employees are expected to receive at least four paid days off for Eid Al Adha 2027, with Arafat Day likely falling on Saturday, May 15, and Eid running through Tuesday, May 18. The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) has not yet issued the official circular, but based on past years, an extended break is possible.
Expected Public Sector Holiday Dates
FAHR typically confirms public sector holiday dates 2–4 weeks before Eid, after the Dhul Hijjah crescent moon is sighted. The dates below are based on astronomical predictions for Dhul Hijjah 1448 AH and remain subject to the official moon sighting.
Expected Holiday Schedule
| Date | Day | Occasion |
|---|---|---|
| May 15, 2027 | Saturday | Arafat Day (9 Dhul Hijjah) |
| May 16, 2027 | Sunday | Eid Al Adha — Day 1 (10 Dhul Hijjah) |
| May 17, 2027 | Monday | Eid Al Adha — Day 2 (11 Dhul Hijjah) |
| May 18, 2027 | Tuesday | Eid Al Adha — Day 3 (12 Dhul Hijjah) |
Public sector employees would return to work on Wednesday, May 19. Since Arafat Day and Eid Day 1 fall on the regular weekend (Saturday–Sunday), the actual extra working days off are Monday and Tuesday.
Could FAHR Extend the Break?
For 2027, FAHR could add Friday, May 14, or Wednesday, May 19, to create a five-day paid break. The announcement is expected once the Dhul Hijjah moon sighting is confirmed.
Your Legal Entitlements as a Public Sector Employee
Under Cabinet Resolution No. 27 of 2024, all UAE employees — public and private sector — are legally entitled to four paid days off for Eid Al Adha.
Key Rights at a Glance
- One paid day off for Arafat Day (9 Dhul Hijjah)
- Three paid days off for Eid Al Adha (10–12 Dhul Hijjah)
- Eid holidays cannot be deducted from your annual leave balance
- These holidays cannot be transferred to the beginning or end of the work week
FAHR issues the official circular to all federal ministries and entities, while local government authorities in each emirate typically follow suit with matching dates.
If You’re Asked to Work During Eid Al Adha
The Executive Regulations of the Federal Decree-Law No. 49 of 2022 on Human Resources in the Federal Government protect you if your employer requires you to work during the Eid holiday. Your employer must offer one of two options.
Option 1: Substitute Day Off
Your employer grants you a replacement day off on another date, equal to the number of holiday days worked.
Option 2: Overtime Compensation
You receive payment for the actual overtime work performed during the holiday.
If neither option is provided, you can raise the matter with your organization’s HR department or contact FAHR. For a detailed breakdown of private sector Eid holiday rights, see our dedicated guide.
How the Break Compares: Public vs. Private Sector
| Sector | Expected Dates | Paid Days Off | Total Break |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public sector | May 15–18 (may be extended by FAHR) | 4+ days | 4+ consecutive days |
| Private sector | May 15–18 | 4 days | 4 consecutive days |
With Eid overlapping the weekend in 2027, the total time off may be shorter than last year. Book your hotels in Dubai or Abu Dhabi early to lock in the best rates.
For a complete list of UAE public holidays in 2027, including Eid Al Fitr and National Day, check our comprehensive calendar.
Where to Escape This Eid Al Adha
Even a four-day break opens up plenty of visa-free getaway options from the UAE. Short-haul favorites like Amman, Bangkok, and Colombo are all under five hours away.
If FAHR extends the break, longer trips to London or Kuala Lumpur become viable. Compare fares on Wego across Emirates, Etihad Airways, flydubai, and Air Arabia.
Prefer to stay local? Check out the best things to do in the UAE during Eid or browse quick beach trips from Dubai. For destination ideas across the GCC, see our Eid Al Adha travel guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will FAHR announce the Eid Al Adha 2027 holiday dates?
FAHR typically announces public sector holidays 2–4 weeks before the break, once the Dhul Hijjah crescent moon is sighted. For 2027, expect the announcement in late April or early May.
Can my employer deduct Eid Al Adha days from my annual leave?
No. Eid Al Adha is a public holiday under UAE law and cannot be counted as part of your annual leave entitlement.
Are these dates final?
No. The dates above are astronomical predictions. Final dates depend on the official Dhul Hijjah crescent moon sighting by the UAE Council for Fatwa, which typically takes place in the days leading up to the holiday.
Sources
- Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) — Official Website
- UAE Legislation — Cabinet Resolution No. 27 of 2024 on Public Holidays
- UAE Legislation — Federal Decree-Law No. 49 of 2022 on Human Resources in the Federal Government
- UAE Government Portal — Public Holidays
- Time Out Dubai — UAE Public Holidays 2027
Disclaimer: Wego strives to ensure all information presented in this article is accurate and up to date at the time of publication. Travel policies, prices, visa requirements, and conditions can change rapidly. We strongly recommend verifying critical details with official sources before making travel decisions. Wego does not accept liability for any inaccuracies, oversights, or changes that may occur after publication.
