Public Holidays in Bahrain 2026 – Islamic, National & Public Holidays
Bahrain observes a variety of public holidays throughout the year that reflect its Islamic faith, cultural heritage, and national pride. These holidays include major Islamic festivals based on the lunar calendar, as well as national celebrations marking independence and unity.
Overview of Public Holidays in Bahrain
Public holidays in Bahrain are a mix of religious and national occasions. Islamic holidays such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are determined by the Hijri calendar, so their dates vary each year. The country also observes key national holidays like National Day and Accession Day, celebrated with parades, fireworks, and cultural events. During these holidays, schools, government offices, and banks typically close, while malls and entertainment venues remain open.
List of Public Holidays in Bahrain (2026)
| Holiday | Date (2026) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Thursday | Marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year. |
| Eid al-Fitr | March 20–22* | Friday–Sunday* | Celebrates the end of Ramadan with prayers, family gatherings, and charity. |
| Labour Day | May 1 | Friday | Recognizes workers’ contributions across Bahrain. |
| Eid al-Adha | May 27–30* | Wednesday–Saturday* | Commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion and sacrifice. |
| Islamic New Year (Hijri 1448) | June 16* | Tuesday* | Marks the start of the new Islamic lunar year. |
| Ashura | June 25–26* | Thursday–Friday* | Commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, significant in Shia Islam. |
| Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (Mawlid al-Nabi) | September 26* | Saturday* | Celebrates the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). |
| National Day | December 16 | Tuesday | Celebrates Bahrain’s independence and nationhood (1971). |
| Accession Day | December 17 | Wednesday | Honors the accession of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. |
*Islamic holidays follow moon sightings; exact dates may vary.
List of Public Holidays in Bahrain (2025)
| Holiday | Date (2025) | Day | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Wednesday | Marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year. |
| Eid al-Fitr | March 30 – April 1* | Sunday – Tuesday* | Celebrates the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. |
| Labour Day | May 1 | Thursday | Recognizes the contributions of workers across Bahrain. |
| Eid al-Adha | June 7 – 10* | Saturday – Tuesday* | Commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. |
| Islamic New Year (Hijri 1447) | June 26* | Thursday* | Marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar year. |
| Ashura | July 5 – 6* | Saturday – Sunday* | Commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, an important event in Shia Islam. |
| Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (Mawlid al-Nabi) | September 6* | Saturday* | Celebrates the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). |
| National Day | December 16 | Tuesday | Commemorates Bahrain’s independence and nationhood (1971). |
| Accession Day | December 17 | Wednesday | Honors the accession of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa to the throne. |
*Islamic holidays are based on the lunar calendar and subject to moon sightings; actual dates may vary.
Religious and Cultural Significance
Bahrain’s holidays highlight its deep Islamic values and national pride. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are the most significant religious events, celebrated with prayers, family gatherings, and acts of charity. Ashura holds profound spiritual importance for Bahrain’s Shia Muslim community, observed with processions and communal remembrance. Meanwhile, National Day and Accession Day are marked by patriotic parades, fireworks, and cultural performances across the kingdom.
Public Observances and Closures
During official public holidays, government offices, banks, and schools are closed. Businesses in commercial hubs like Manama and Muharraq may operate on reduced hours, while shopping malls, hotels, and restaurants remain open to serve both locals and tourists. Public transportation continues but may follow limited schedules during major Islamic celebrations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Bahrain have?
Bahrain observes around 10 to 12 official public holidays each year, depending on the Islamic lunar calendar.
What is Bahrain’s National Day?
National Day on December 16 celebrates Bahrain’s independence from British rule in 1971 and is one of the most important national holidays.
Does Bahrain celebrate both Sunni and Shia Islamic holidays?
Yes. Bahrain recognizes Islamic holidays observed by both Sunni and Shia communities, including Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and Ashura.
Are businesses closed during Eid in Bahrain?
Most government offices and many private businesses close for the first two days of Eid, but shopping malls and restaurants usually remain open.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Bahrain blend faith, history, and cultural unity. From the joy of Eid to the pride of National Day, these holidays reflect the Bahraini people’s devotion, resilience, and celebration of national identity.
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