Public Holidays in Somalia 2026 – Islamic & National Holidays
Somalia observes a combination of Gregorian and Islamic holidays, reflecting its national history and Islamic heritage. Some holidays are observed nationwide, while others apply regionally (particularly in Somaliland), depending on local authority and religious observance.
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Somalia Public Holidays in 2026
| Date | Weekday | Holiday | Remarks / Observance |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1 | Thursday | New Year’s Day | Nationwide holiday. |
| January 16 | Friday | Isra and Mi’raj (Miraj Nabi) | Observed in many areas; regional observance. |
| March 20 | Friday | Eid al-Fitr | End of Ramadan (subject to moon sighting). |
| May 1 | Friday | Labour Day | International Workers’ Day. |
| May 27 | Wednesday | Eid al-Adha | Feast of Sacrifice (Islamic holiday). |
| June 26 | Friday | Independence Day | Marks independence from colonial rule. |
| June 16 | Tuesday | Islamic New Year (Muharram) | Beginning of the Islamic lunar year (regional). |
| July 1 | Wednesday | Republic Day | Formation of the Somali Republic. |
| June 25 | Thursday | Ashura | Observed in many Muslim communities. |
| August 25 | Tuesday | The Prophet’s Birthday (Mawlid) | Religious observance (regional). |
| December 25 | Friday | Christmas Day | Observed by Christian communities. |
Public holidays are commonly used for family gatherings, religious observance, and domestic travel. During longer breaks, residents and visitors often explore destinations highlighted in places to visit in Somalia or plan short stays using recommendations from best hotels in Somalia.
Somalia Public Holidays in 2025
| Date | Weekday | Holiday | Remarks / Observance |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 1 | Wednesday | New Year’s Day | Nationwide holiday. |
| January 27 | Monday | Isra and Mi’raj (Miraj Nabi) | Observed in many areas; regional observance. |
| March 31 | Monday | Eid al-Fitr | End of Ramadan (Muslim holiday). |
| May 1 | Thursday | Labour Day | International Workers’ Day. |
| June 7 | Saturday | Eid al-Adha | Feast of Sacrifice. |
| June 26 | Thursday | Independence Day | Marks independence from colonial rule. |
| June 27 | Friday | Islamic New Year (Muharram) | Beginning of the Islamic lunar year (regional). |
| July 1 | Tuesday | Republic Day | Commemorates formation of Somali Republic. |
| July 6 | Sunday | Ashura | Observed in many Muslim communities. |
| September 5 | Friday | The Prophet’s Birthday (Mawlid) | Annual religious observance. |
| December 25 | Thursday | Christmas Day | Christian religious holiday. |
Notes & Observance Details
- Somalia observes both fixed Gregorian holidays and movable Islamic holidays.
- Islamic holidays depend on moon sighting and may vary slightly by region.
- Some observances, including Mawlid, Ashura, and Miraj Nabi, are not uniformly observed nationwide.
- Somaliland may observe additional regional holidays not applicable across Somalia.
- Official holiday dates may be adjusted by government or religious authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many public holidays does Somalia have in 2026?
Somalia observes approximately 11–12 major public and religious holidays in 2026, depending on regional recognition.
Are all Islamic holidays observed nationwide in Somalia?
No. Some Islamic holidays are observed regionally, particularly in Somaliland, and may not apply nationwide.
Do Islamic holiday dates change every year?
Yes. Islamic holidays follow the lunar Hijri calendar, so their Gregorian dates shift annually.
What does Republic Day signify in Somalia?
Republic Day on July 1 commemorates the unification of British and Italian Somaliland in 1960.
Conclusion
Public holidays in Somalia for 2026 and 2025 reflect the country’s blend of national milestones and Islamic traditions. Because many holidays are lunar-based and some vary regionally, travelers, businesses, and residents should confirm dates with local authorities before making plans.
