Saudi Arabia Holidays 2026
Public, National & Eid Holidays
Saudi Arabia Holidays 2026
Public, National & Eid Holidays
Next Public Holiday in Saudi Arabia 2026
National Day expected on (23 September 2026)If the official dates change due to moon sighting confirmations or government announcements, we’ll update this section promptly.
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The Saudi Arabia holidays in 2026 include a combination of national holidays, Islamic holidays, and government-declared public holidays observed across all seven emirates. These holidays apply to both public and private sector employees, making them essential for planning leave, travel, payroll cycles, and business operations.
Whether you’re searching for the Saudi Arabia public holidays 2026, Eid holidays in Saudi Arabia, Saudi Arabia National Day holidays, or quick answers like “is today a holiday in Saudi Arabia?” or “next public holiday in Saudi Arabia”, this page provides a complete, up-to-date holiday list in one place.
All dates are aligned with official Saudi Arabia government announcements, with Islamic holidays subject to moon sighting confirmations. Bookmark this page to stay informed about upcoming holidays in Saudi Arabia 2026 and any last-minute updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday | Holiday Type |
| Feb 22 | Sunday | Founding Day | National Holiday |
| Mar 20 | Friday | Eid Al Fitr (Start)* | Religious Holiday |
| Mar 21 | Saturday | Eid Al Fitr Holiday (Day 2)* | Religious Holiday |
| Mar 22 | Sunday | Eid Al Fitr Holiday (Day 3)* | Religious Holiday |
| May 26 | Tuesday | Arafat Day (Waqfat)* | Religious Holiday |
| May 27 | Wednesday | Eid Al Adha (Start)* | Religious Holiday |
| May 28 | Thursday | Eid Al Adha Holiday (Day 2)* | Religious Holiday |
| May 29 | Friday | Eid Al Adha Holiday (Day 3)* | Religious Holiday |
| Sep 23 | Wednesday | National Day | National Holiday |
History & background of Saudi Arabi public holidays
Saudi Arabia’s public holidays reflect key moments in the Kingdom’s national history as well as its Islamic heritage. The holiday calendar includes national observances such as Founding Day and Saudi National Day, alongside major Islamic holidays including Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.
Founding Day, observed on 22 February, was introduced to mark the establishment of the first Saudi state in 1727, highlighting the historical roots of the modern Kingdom. Saudi National Day, observed on 23 September, commemorates the unification of Saudi Arabia in 1932.
Together with the Eid holidays, these public holidays shape annual work patterns, leave planning, and nationwide observance across Saudi Arabia.
Founding Day – February 22
Founding Day is a national public holiday observed on 22 February. It marks the establishment of the first Saudi state in 1727, highlighting the historical foundations of modern Saudi Arabia. Introduced as an official holiday in recent years, Founding Day has become an important part of the Kingdom’s national calendar.
Eid Holidays in Saudi Arabia 2026
Eid holidays are the most significant public holidays in Saudi Arabia and account for the longest breaks in the year. These holidays are central to searches related to Eid holidays in Saudi Arabia and Saudi Arabia Eid holidays 2026.
Eid al-Fitr Holidays in Saudi Arabia 2026
March 20–22 (Friday to Sunday)
Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting (Ramadan is the 9th month of the lunar calendar). It is observed in Saudi Arabia as a three-day religious public holiday. It is one of the most important festive periods of the year, commonly associated with family gatherings, community visits, and celebrations.
Arafat Day and Eid al-Adha Holidays in Saudi Arabia 2026
Arafat Day: May 26, 2026 (Tuesday)
Eid al-Adha: May 27–29, 2026 (Wednesday to Friday)
Arafat Day precedes Eid al-Adha, one of the most important Islamic festivals. Together, they form a four-day public holiday period in Saudi Arabia. Eid al-Adha coincides with the annual Hajj pilgrimage and is observed nationwide.
Saudi National Day – September 23
Saudi National Day is observed annually on 23 September and commemorates the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 1932. It is one of the country’s most important national holidays and is observed across government institutions, private organisations, and communities.
Saudi Arabia Holidays for private sector employees
In Saudi Arabia, public holidays generally apply to private sector employees as well. Most organisations follow the officially announced list of Saudi public holidays, especially for Eid holidays in Saudi Arabia, Founding Day, and the Saudi National Day holiday.
While internal policies may differ for shift-based or essential roles, the official Saudi holidays 2026 calendar remains the primary reference for leave planning and workforce scheduling in the private sector.
Bank & financial sector holidays in Saudi Arabia
Banks and financial institutions in Saudi Arabia generally observe official public holidays, particularly during Eid holidays, Founding Day, and the Saudi National Day holiday. While public holidays apply nationwide, branch-level operations and processing timelines may vary, especially during extended Eid periods.
For organisations, keeping track of bank working days around public holidays in Saudi Arabia helps avoid delays in salary processing, transfers, and settlements.
How HR teams use this Saudi Arabia holiday list?
FAQs on Saudi Arabia Holidays in 2026
What are the main public holidays in Saudi Arabia in 2026?
The main public holidays in Saudi Arabia in 2026 include Founding Day, Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and Saudi National Day. Among these, Eid holidays account for the longest breaks in the year.
Which holidays in Saudi Arabia usually result in the longest time off?
The longest breaks in Saudi Arabia typically occur during Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, as both are observed over multiple days and often coincide with weekends.
What is the difference between Founding Day and Saudi National Day?
Founding Day (22 February) marks the establishment of the first Saudi state in 1727, while Saudi National Day (23 September) commemorates the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 1932. Both are national public holidays but recognise different historical milestones.
Are Eid holidays the same every year in Saudi Arabia?
Eid holidays follow the Islamic lunar calendar, so their dates change each year when viewed on the Gregorian calendar. Official confirmation is typically issued closer to the holiday period.
Do Saudi public holidays apply to private sector employees?
Yes. Official public holidays in Saudi Arabia generally apply to private sector employees as well, although internal working arrangements may vary depending on the organisation or role.
How do public holidays affect business operations in Saudi Arabia?
During major holidays, especially Eid holidays, many organisations operate with reduced staff or adjusted hours. Planning in advance helps businesses manage leave, staffing, and payroll timelines smoothly.
Are banks closed during Saudi public holidays?
Banks in Saudi Arabia observe official public holidays, though branch operations and service hours may vary, particularly during extended Eid holiday periods.