Qatar’s 2026 public holiday calendar offers several long weekends that are ideal for planning short getaways or extended vacations. Whether you’re an expat looking to fly home or a resident eyeing a beach break, knowing these dates early helps you lock in the best fares and hotel rates.
Here’s every official public holiday in Qatar for 2026, along with long-weekend strategies and travel ideas.
Qatar public holidays 2026 at a glance
| Holiday | Date(s) | Day(s) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Sports Day | 10 February | Tuesday | Fixed — second Tuesday of February |
| Eid al-Fitr | 17 – 23 March (gov’t); varies (private) | Tue – Mon | 7 days (gov’t); min. 3 days (private). Subject to moon sighting |
| Eid al-Adha | 26 – 30 May (gov’t); varies (private) | Tue – Sat | 5 days (gov’t); min. 3 days (private). Subject to moon sighting |
| Qatar National Day | 18 December | Friday | Fixed date every year |
Islamic holidays (Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha) are determined by the lunar calendar. The dates above are based on astronomical projections — official confirmation comes a day or two before each holiday based on the moon sighting announcement.
National Sports Day — 10 February 2026
Celebrated every year on the second Tuesday of February, Qatar’s National Sports Day promotes physical activity and wellbeing across the nation. Sports clubs, parks, and community hubs host public events including fitness sessions, football matches, cycling activities, and family-friendly competitions.
Government offices and many private companies organize team activities to encourage a healthier lifestyle. Since it falls on a Tuesday, taking Monday off gives you a four-day weekend (Saturday through Tuesday).
Eid al-Fitr — 17 to 23 March 2026
Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, a sacred month of fasting and reflection. In Qatar, the holiday is celebrated with communal prayers, family gatherings, festive meals, and acts of charity.
In 2026, the government sector holiday runs from Tuesday, 17 March to Monday, 23 March — a full seven days off. Private-sector employees are entitled to a minimum of three paid days. The first day of Eid is expected to fall on Friday, 20 March.
This is one of the longest holiday windows of the year — ideal for an international trip. Compare flights from Doha and hotels on Wego to lock in early rates.
Eid al-Adha — 26 to 30 May 2026
One of the most significant celebrations in the Islamic calendar, Eid al-Adha honors the devotion and sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim. The holiday is observed with morning prayers, animal sacrifices, charitable acts, and family reunions.
For 2026, the government sector holiday runs from Tuesday, 26 May (Arafat Day) to Saturday, 30 May, with work resuming Sunday, 31 May. Private-sector employees are entitled to a minimum of three paid days.
Since the holiday runs into the weekend, you effectively get a week off without using any annual leave. This is a popular window for longer trips — book early.
Qatar National Day — 18 December 2026
Qatar National Day commemorates the unification of the country in 1878. Celebrated every 18 December, it is one of the most anticipated events of the year.
Doha‘s Corniche hosts dazzling parades, fireworks, aerial displays, and traditional performances. Cultural exhibitions across the city highlight the nation’s heritage and enduring pride.
In 2026, National Day falls on a Friday — giving you a natural three-day weekend (Thursday through Saturday). Take Thursday off and you get a four-day break.
Long-weekend planning tips
- Eid al-Fitr (March) — Government employees already get 7 days. Private-sector workers can extend their 3-day minimum by taking 2 leave days on either side.
- Eid al-Adha (May) — The Tuesday-to-Saturday window means taking Sunday and Monday off creates a 9-day break.
- National Day (December) — Falls on Friday, so pair with Thursday leave for a 4-day weekend heading into the New Year period.
- National Sports Day (February) — Take Monday off for a 4-day weekend; a Tuesday holiday is otherwise an awkward midweek break.
Related guides
- Qatar Eid Al Adha 2026 Holiday: Public Sector Dates and Private Sector Rules
- Eid ul-Fitr 2026: Dates, Traditions, and Global Celebrations
- Dhul Hijjah 2026: Dates, Moon Sighting, Fasting and What the First 10 Days Mean
- Find cheap flights from Doha on Wego
- Find hotels in Doha on Wego
Sources
- Qatar Council of Ministers — Official Holidays
- Qatar Alive — Qatar Public Holidays 2026
- Time Out Doha — Qatar Public Holidays 2026
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.
