Saudi Arabia’s public holiday calendar in 2026 includes a mix of national days, religious festivals, and cultural observances. Religious festival dates are tentative and will be confirmed closer to the actual sighting of the moon, per Islamic tradition.
Note: This article was originally published in January 2026 with estimated dates. Eid al-Fitr dates have since been officially confirmed and updated below. Eid al-Adha dates remain tentative pending moon sighting confirmation.
1. Saudi Founding Day — 22 February 2026 (Sunday)
Saudi Founding Day commemorates the establishment of the First Saudi State by Imam Muhammad bin Saud in 1727. This holiday celebrates national heritage and cultural identity.
2. Saudi Flag Day — 11 March 2026 (Wednesday) (National Observance)
Saudi Flag Day marks the adoption of the Kingdom’s national flag and is observed across government and educational institutions as a day of national pride. It is not a public holiday, and normal working hours apply.
3. Eid al-Fitr — 19 to 22 March 2026 (Confirmed)
Confirmed dates:
- 19 March (Thursday) – Holiday
- 20 March (Friday) – Holiday
- 21 March (Saturday) – Holiday
- 22 March (Sunday) – Holiday
Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is celebrated with prayers, family gatherings, and charity. Dates are based on official announcements following the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon.
4. Eid al-Adha & Arafat Day — 26 to 29 May 2026 (Tentative)
Expected (subject to moon sighting):
- 26 May (Tuesday) – Arafat Day
- 27 May (Wednesday) – Eid al-Adha (First Day)
- 28 May (Thursday) – Eid al-Adha Holiday
- 29 May (Friday) – Eid al-Adha Holiday
Arafat Day comes just before Eid al-Adha and is one of the most important days in Islam, especially for Hajj pilgrims. Eid al-Adha commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son and is marked by prayers and Qurbani (animal sacrifice).
5. Saudi National Day — 23 September 2026 (Wednesday)
Saudi National Day celebrates the formal unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 1932. Public celebrations, flag displays, parades, and cultural events mark this annual occasion.
Follow official Saudi announcements for final Eid dates, as they depend on moon sightings. Plan ahead to make the most of these holidays.
