Public Holidays in Saudi Arabia 2026 – Islamic, National & Royal Holidays
Saudi Arabia observes both secular and religious public holidays. The religious ones — especially the Eids and Day of Arafat — follow the Islamic lunar (Hijri) calendar and may shift by one day depending on moon sighting.
Explore more: Public Holidays in Sao Tome and Principe
Public Holidays in Saudi Arabia 2026
| Date(s) | Weekday(s) | Holiday | Notes / Observance |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1 | Thursday | New Year’s Day | Observed by some institutions; not a core Islamic holiday |
| February 22 | Sunday | Founding Day | Commemorates the foundation of the first Saudi state in 1727 |
| March 11 | Wednesday | Flag Day | Marks the adoption of the national flag |
| March 20 – March 23 | Friday – Monday | Eid al-Fitr | End of Ramadan; public holiday over multiple days (subject to moon sighting) |
| May 26 | Tuesday | Day of Arafat | Observed during Hajj, one day before Eid al-Adha |
| May 27 – May 31 | Wednesday – Sunday | Eid al-Adha | Feast of Sacrifice; extended national holiday period |
| September 23 | Wednesday | National Day | Marks the unification of the Kingdom in 1932 |
| — | — | Islamic New Year (Hijri 1 Muharram) | Date varies annually based on the lunar calendar |
Travel Ideas for Public Holidays in 2026
Long public holidays in Saudi Arabia are a great time to plan short trips or family breaks. You can explore cultural landmarks, deserts, and coastal destinations via
Places to Visit in Saudi Arabia.
If you are planning an extended stay, browse recommended accommodations through
Best Hotels in Saudi Arabia.
Public Holidays in Saudi Arabia 2025
| Date(s) | Weekday(s) | Holiday | Notes / Observance |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1 | Wednesday | New Year’s Day | Often observed though not strictly Islamic holiday |
| February 22 | Saturday | Founding Day | Commemorates the foundation of the first Saudi state in 1727 |
| March 11 | Tuesday | Flag Day | Commemorates the formal adoption of the Saudi national flag |
| March 30 – April 2 | Sunday – Wednesday | Eid al-Fitr | End of Ramadan; multi-day public holiday period |
| June 5 | Thursday | Day of Arafat | Occurs during Hajj, day before Eid al-Adha |
| June 6 – June 10 | Friday – Tuesday | Eid al-Adha | Feast of Sacrifice; public holiday over several days |
| September 23 | Tuesday | National Day | Marks the unification of the Kingdom in 1932 |
| — | — | Islamic New Year (Hijri 1 Muharram) | Observed in many calendars; date shifts annually |
Observance Notes & Key Details
- Islamic holidays shift approximately 11 days earlier each year in the Gregorian calendar.
- Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are the longest public holiday periods nationwide.
- Founding Day (February 22) and Flag Day (March 11) are relatively recent additions.
- National Day on September 23 is the main secular celebration across the Kingdom.
- Official holiday dates for Islamic events are confirmed close to the occasion due to moon sighting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays are there in Saudi Arabia in 2026?
Saudi Arabia observes several public holidays in 2026, including major Islamic festivals and national commemorations. The total number of non-working days increases during Eid periods.
Do Eid holidays have fixed dates in Saudi Arabia?
No. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha follow the Islamic lunar calendar and their Gregorian dates depend on official moon sighting.
What is the significance of Founding Day in Saudi Arabia?
Founding Day on February 22 commemorates the establishment of the first Saudi state in 1727 and celebrates Saudi heritage and identity.
Is Saudi National Day a public holiday?
Yes. Saudi National Day on September 23 is an official public holiday marking the unification of the Kingdom under King Abdulaziz in 1932.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Saudi Arabia include a blend of religious observances and national celebrations. Because Islamic holiday dates depend on lunar sighting, travelers and residents should always confirm official announcements when planning work schedules or travel.
