Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan orders early salary payment for government employees ahead of Eid Al Fitr

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has directed the early disbursement of March salaries for Dubai government employees ahead of Eid al-Fitr. The Crown Prince ordered that salaries be paid on March 17, allowing employees to better prepare for the upcoming holiday and support their families during the festive period.The directive comes as the United Arab Emirates announced official holiday arrangements for both public and private sector workers to mark the celebration. The move highlights the government's continued efforts to foster a positive and supportive work environment for employees, particularly during culturally significant occasions.

Federal holidays for Eid Al Fitr

The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources confirmed that all federal ministries, institutions and public sector entities will observe a holiday from 19 to 22 March, with the official working hours resuming from March 23rd.

For private sector employees, the holiday period will be from 19 to 21 March. However, if Ramadan lasts for 30 days, authorities added that the private sector holiday will be extended to include 22nd March.

When is Eid Al Fitr?

Eid Al Fitr is observed from Shawwal 1 to 3, and is classified as a non-transferrable public holiday, as per the UAE's official public holiday calendar. Dubai's Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) has indicated that Eid Al Fitr is expected to fall on March 20, 2026 and will continue till March 22.

The moon sighting committees will convene on the 29th day of Ramadan to determine the official start of Shawwal. If the crescent is sighted on March 18, Eid would begin on March 19, potentially resulting in a four-day break from 19 to 22 March, with Sunday aligning with the usual weekend.