Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has directed the early release of March salaries to Dubai government employees ahead of Eid al-Fitr. The crown prince ordered wages to be paid on March 17 so that employees can better prepare for the upcoming holidays and support their families during the holidays.The directive comes as the United Arab Emirates declares a legal holiday for public and private sector workers to mark the celebrations. The move highlights the government’s ongoing efforts to create a positive and supportive working environment for employees, particularly at culturally significant occasions.
Eid al-Fitr federal holiday
The Federal Government Human Resources Agency confirmed that all federal ministries, agencies and public sector entities will be on holiday from March 19 to 22 and will resume official working hours from March 23. For private sector employees, the holiday is from March 19 to 21. However, if Ramadan The 30-day private sector holiday will be extended to March 22, the authorities added.
When is Eid al-Fitr?
Eid al-Fitr is held from the 1st to the 3rd of Eid al-Fitr, and according to the UAE’s official public holiday calendar, Eid al-Fitr is listed as a non-transferable public holiday. Dubai’s Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) said Eid al-Fitr is expected to be held on March 20, 2026, and will last until March 22. The Moon Viewing Committee will meet on the 29th of Ramadan to decide on the official start of Shawal Festival. If the new moon is seen on March 18, Eid al-Fitr will begin on March 19, possibly resulting in a four-day holiday from March 19 to 22, with Sunday falling in line with the usual weekend.
