Bahrain’s Islamic New Year holiday in 2026 is expected to fall on Tuesday, 16 June, a one-day public holiday. As of 9 June 2026, the government has not yet issued its official circular confirming the date.
Here’s the date, what closes, and how to stretch it into a long weekend getaway.
When Is the Holiday?
The Islamic New Year is expected on Tuesday, 16 June 2026, though the date remains tentative until an official moon sighting confirms it. It marks the first day of Muharram, the opening month of the Islamic lunar (Hijri) calendar, which this year begins year 1448.
Astronomical calculations under the Umm al-Qura calendar place 1 Muharram 1448 on 16 June, but the date depends on the official moon sighting and may shift by a day. Some calendars list it as 17 June for this reason.
Bahrain’s government confirms the exact day shortly before the holiday. Treat 16 June as the expected date and check for the official circular closer to the time.
Is It a Day Off?
Yes. The Hijri New Year is a one-day public holiday in Bahrain, observed across both the public and private sectors.
On the day itself, expect the following:
- Closed: government offices, schools, and banks
- Usually open: malls, supermarkets, restaurants, and public transport, though hours may vary
Under Bahrain’s Labour Law, private sector staff get a substitute day off if a public holiday falls on the weekend, which runs Friday to Saturday. In 2026 the holiday falls on a Tuesday, so that rule doesn’t apply this year.
Turn It Into a Long Weekend
Two days of annual leave can stretch the Tuesday holiday into a five-day break. Bahrain’s weekend runs Friday to Saturday, so the days line up neatly.
Book Wednesday, 17 June and Thursday, 18 June off and the days line up like this:
| Day | Status |
|---|---|
| Tue, 16 June | Public holiday |
| Wed, 17 June | Annual leave |
| Thu, 18 June | Annual leave |
| Fri, 19 June | Weekend |
| Sat, 20 June | Weekend |
That’s enough time for a short trip out of Bahrain. Quick hops from Manama include Dubai, Doha, and Riyadh.
For a slower pace, Salalah is an easy regional escape. Compare hotels in Manama if you’d rather stay home and enjoy a relaxed long weekend.
Frequently Asked Questions
What date is the Islamic New Year in Bahrain in 2026?
It is expected on Tuesday, 16 June 2026. The date is tentative and confirmed by official moon sighting, so it may shift by a day. As of 9 June 2026, no official government circular has confirmed it.
Is it a paid public holiday?
Yes. It is a one-day public holiday across the public and private sectors. Government offices, schools, and banks close, while many retail and transport services usually remain available, though hours may vary.
How can I make it a long weekend?
Take Wednesday, 17 June and Thursday, 18 June as annual leave. Combined with the Tuesday holiday and the Friday–Saturday weekend, that gives you a five-day break.
Sources
- Bahrain AIM — Public Holidays 2026
- Central Bank of Bahrain — Official Bank Holidays
- Bahrain Labour Law for the Private Sector — Article 64
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