Saudi Arabia announces four-day Eid Al-Fitr 2026 holiday
It’s almost here
If you’re already thinking about Eid plans, here’s some good news. Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has announced the holiday dates for Eid Al-Fitr 2026 for private and government-sector employees.
According to a statement posted on X, this year, the holiday will begin at the end of the working day on Wednesday March 18 (Ramadan 29, 1447 AH), and will run for four days.
🗓️ || موعد إجازة #عيد_الفطر المبارك للقطاعين الخاص وغير الربحي لعام 1447هـ.
وكل عام وأنتم بخير. pic.twitter.com/XRMiTGAYBo
— المتحدث الرسمي للموارد البشرية والتنمية الاجتماعية (@HRSD_SP) March 3, 2026
This means it’s shaping up to be a proper long weekend for many, especially those already off on Fridays and Saturdays.
The holiday will run through Tuesday March 24, with everyone returning to work on Wednesday March 25.
This gives residents across Saudi Arabia time to pause, gather with loved ones, and make the most of the festive period to enjoy the atmosphere that marks the end of the Holy Month.
What is Eid Al-Fitr?
Eid Al-Fitr marks the end of the month-long dawn-to-sunset fasting of Ramadan, and is one of the most important Islamic celebrations.
The day typically begins with a special communal Eid prayer, followed by family gatherings, generous feasts, and plenty of sweet treats shared among relatives, friends, and neighbours. Children often receive Eidiya (small gifts or money), homes are filled with the aroma of traditional desserts, and cities across the Kingdom become lively and festive.
Based on current estimates, Eid Al-Fitr is expected to occur on Thursday March 19, although the final date will be confirmed by the traditional sighting of the crescent moon that marks the beginning of Shawwal, the next month in the Islamic calendar.
The final confirmation will be announced by the relevant authorities closer to the date, so watch this space for updates.
If you’re already planning your next escape, here are the 2026 public holiday dates in Saudi Arabia you’ll want to mark on your calendar.
Images: Unsplash
