Bahrain

About Bahrain

History & background of Bahrain public holidays

Bahrain’s public holidays reflect the country’s constitutional history, national milestones, and Islamic heritage. National Day (16 December) commemorates Bahrain’s independence in 1971, while Accession Day (17 December) marks the accession of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa to the throne. These two days are observed consecutively and form Bahrain’s primary national holiday period.

Alongside national observances, Bahrain’s holiday calendar includes several Islamic religious holidays, such as Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, Islamic New Year, Ashura, and Prophet’s Birthday (Mawlid). These holidays play a key role in shaping annual work schedules, public observance, and business planning across the country.

New Year’s Day – January 1

New Year’s Day is observed as a one-day public holiday in Bahrain, marking the start of the calendar year. While not tied to local tradition, it is recognised nationwide and commonly observed across government offices, private organisations, and educational institutions.

Eid Holidays in Bahrain 2026

Eid holidays are among the most widely observed public holidays in Bahrain, with significant cultural and religious importance. These holidays often result in reduced business activity and extended closures, making them key periods for leave and workforce planning.

Eid al-Fitr Holidays

March 20–22, 2026

Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting (Ramadan is the 9th month of the lunar calendar). In Bahrain, Eid al-Fitr is observed as a three-day public holiday, celebrated with family gatherings, charitable giving, and nationwide observance across sectors.

Arafat Day and Eid al-Adha Holidays

Arafat Day: May 26, 2026

Eid al-Adha: May 27–29, 2026

Arafat Day precedes Eid al-Adha, one of the most important Islamic festivals. Eid al-Adha commemorates the values of sacrifice and devotion and is observed in Bahrain as a three-day public holiday, following Arafat Day. This period often has a noticeable impact on work schedules and business operations.

Labour Day – May 1

Labour Day, observed on May 1, recognises the contributions of workers and labour movements. It is observed as a public holiday in Bahrain and is commonly marked by closures across government offices and many private sector organisations.

Islamic New Year – June 16

The Islamic New Year marks the beginning of a new year in the Hijri calendar. It is observed as a religious public holiday in Bahrain and generally involves reduced working hours or closures across institutions.

Ashura – June 25 & 26

Ashura is observed over two days in Bahrain, marking the 9th and 10th days of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar. The occasion holds deep religious significance, particularly within the Shia Muslim community.

Prophet Muhammad’s (saws) Birthday (Mawlid) – August 25

Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (Mawlid) is observed as a religious public holiday in Bahrain. The day holds cultural and spiritual importance for Muslims and is marked through religious gatherings, sermons, and community observances across the country.

Bahrain National Day – December 16

Bahrain National Day, observed on December 16, commemorates Bahrain’s independence in 1971. It is one of the most important national holidays in the country and is marked by official ceremonies, public celebrations, and nationwide observance.

Accession Day – December 17

Accession Day, observed on December 17, marks the accession of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa (the day His Majesty assumed the throne of Bahrain). Observed immediately after National Day, it forms a two-day national holiday period, making mid-December a significant break in Bahrain’s public holiday calendar.