According to the official statement, the crescent moon was sighted on the evening of Sunday, May 17, 2026, through a coordinated observation process involving advanced astronomical observatories and traditional Sharia-compliant moon sighting methods.

Based on the announcement:

📅 Monday, May 18, 2026, will be the first day of Dhul Hijjah 1447 AH

🕋 Wednesday, May 27, 2026, will be the first day of Eid Al Adha in the UAE

The statement was issued in coordination with specialised moon-sighting committees and astronomical experts across the country.

The council also extended congratulations to the UAE leadership, residents, and the wider Muslim community on the occasion of Eid Al Adha 2026, praying for peace, prosperity, and blessings for the nation.

Eid Al Adha is one of the most significant festivals in the Islamic calendar and typically brings extended public holidays and celebrations across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other emirates.

When will Eid Al Adha begin?

Eid Al Adha 2026 in the UAE will begin on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, following the official sighting of the Dhul Hijjah crescent moon. The Day of Arafah is expected to fall on Tuesday, May 26, 2026.

Eid Holidays for Public Sector in UAE

The UAE government is expected to announce official Eid Al Adha holidays for public sector employees in the coming days. Based on the Islamic calendar, public holidays are likely to begin from the Day of Arafah and continue through the Eid celebrations.

Eid Holidays for Private sector in UAE

Private sector employees across the UAE are also expected to receive multiple days off for Eid Al Adha 2026. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation is expected to release an official holiday circular closer to the festival dates.

Eid Al Adha holiday for Dubai private schools

Many private schools in Dubai are expected to close during the Eid Al Adha holidays, allowing students and staff to celebrate the occasion with their families. Exact holiday schedules may vary depending on the school calendar and KHDA guidelines.

Also Read: How to Check Visa Fine in Dubai UAE

For residents, visitors, and businesses, Ramadan also brings changes to daily routines, working hours, and dining schedules. Here is a complete and accurate guide based on UAE authorities and established regulations.

Ramadan 2026 Start and End Date in the UAE

According to astronomical calculations and the UAE’s moon-sighting system:

• Expected start of Ramadan 2026: Thursday, 19 February 2026
• Expected end of Ramadan: Thursday, 19 March 2026
• Eid Al Fitr: Expected to begin on Friday, 20 March 2026

As per UAE practice, the official start and end dates will be confirmed by the UAE Moon-Sighting Committee after the sighting of the crescent moon. Dates may shift by one day depending on moon visibility.

Daily Fasting Timings in Dubai (Suhoor & Iftar)

Fasting during Ramadan takes place from dawn (Fajr) to sunset (Maghrib). Timings change slightly each day.

Expected Dubai Timings (Approximate)

• Suhoor (pre-dawn meal): Ends between 5:05 AM – 5:40 AM
• Iftar (breaking fast): Between 6:15 PM – 6:30 PM

Because Ramadan 2026 falls during late winter and early spring, fasting hours will be relatively shorter compared to summer months.

➡️ Exact daily prayer and fasting times are officially issued by UAE mosques and Islamic authorities during Ramadan.

Official Working Hours During Ramadan in the UAE

Private Sector (All Emirates)

Under UAE Labour Law, all private-sector employees are entitled to:

• A reduction of two working hours per day during Ramadan
• This applies to all employees, regardless of religion

Actual start and end times are set by employers, provided the total daily working hours are reduced.

Public Sector (Federal & Local Government)

UAE government entities operate on reduced working hours during Ramadan, as announced by the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR).

• Working days are shortened
• Flexible and remote work arrangements may be applied where operationally possible

Exact schedules are officially announced closer to Ramadan and may vary slightly by emirate and department.

Restaurants, Malls, and Daily Life

• Eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours should be avoided
• Many restaurants remain closed during the day and open after sunset
• Hotels and malls usually provide designated dining areas for non-fasting guests
• Shopping malls stay open late into the night, especially after iftar

After sunset, cities across the UAE come alive with iftar gatherings, Ramadan tents, and night shopping.

Iftar, Suhoor, and Ramadan Traditions

• Iftar is traditionally opened with dates and water, followed by evening prayer
• Suhoor is taken before dawn and helps sustain fasting throughout the day
• Mosques host Taraweeh prayers every night
• The last ten nights include Laylat Al Qadr (Night of Power), the most sacred night of Ramadan

Charity and community initiatives play a major role, with widespread iftar distribution and donation drives across the UAE.

What Visitors Should Know

• Dress modestly in public areas
• Respect prayer times and mosque surroundings
• Entertainment continues but in a calmer, respectful manner
• Alcohol is served only in licensed venues, mainly after sunset

Ramadan is widely regarded as one of the best times to experience Emirati culture, hospitality, and community values.

Ramadan 2026 at a Glance (UAE)

Final Note

All timings and schedules are subject to official UAE authority confirmation. Residents and visitors are advised to follow announcements from local mosques, government channels, and official media.

The weekly draw, conducted under the Dh30 million jackpot format, continues to attract strong participation from residents across the Emirates.

According to the official results of Lucky Day Draw No. 260117, the winning numbers in the “Days” category were 14, 22, 11, 10, 24, and 26, while the “Month” number was 8. The three winners were selected from the Lucky Chance ID category, which guarantees cash prizes in every draw.

Lottery officials also confirmed that no winners were declared for the Dh30 million grand prize or the Dh5 million second prize, resulting in both amounts rolling over to the next draw.

The Lucky Day draw has seen growing participation since its launch, offering multiple prize tiers and guaranteed rewards. The next draw is scheduled for Saturday, with the jackpot remaining active.

With gold trading near record highs internationally, even a 1–2% move in global markets can translate into a noticeable increase on Dubai jewellers’ rate boards within minutes, affecting both jewellery shoppers and bullion investors across the UAE.

Dubai Gold Rate Today (Per Gram, AED)

Dubai gold rate today per gram in AED reflects real-time movements in the international spot gold market, with local prices updating several times a day across the UAE. Rates for 24K, 22K, and 18K gold are calculated based on the global gold price in US dollars, converted into dirhams, and adjusted with a small local premium. As a result, even minor changes in global markets can quickly impact the today gold rate in Dubai shown on jewellers’ rate boards at the Gold Souk and major malls, before making charges are added.

📌 For intraday updates and city-wide comparisons, view the full today gold rate in Dubai price sheet.

Reason 1: Global Gold Price Spike

The primary reason behind today’s increase in Dubai gold prices is a sharp rise in international gold prices in US dollars. When spot gold or futures move higher — often following key economic data or central-bank signals — UAE prices reprice almost instantly.

Markets have recently become more sensitive to any indication of lower future interest rates, which reduces the appeal of bonds and boosts demand for non-yielding assets like gold. This keeps traders quick to buy, amplifying daily price swings.

Reason 2: Geopolitical Tensions and Safe-Haven Buying

Gold also climbed today as investors reacted to renewed geopolitical and financial uncertainty. During periods of global stress — such as conflict escalation, trade tensions, or banking concerns — gold demand typically rises as investors seek safety.

“Whenever global risk increases, we see immediate buying interest, and Dubai prices adjust the same day,” said a senior trader at a Deira-based bullion dealer.

Large institutional flows can tighten supply quickly, pushing international prices — and Dubai retail rates — higher within hours.

Reason 3: Currency Moves and Central-Bank Demand

Although the UAE dirham is pegged to the US dollar, currency dynamics still play a role. A weaker dollar often pushes gold higher, as it becomes cheaper for buyers using other currencies.

In addition, continued central-bank gold purchases, including from the Gulf region, support long-term demand.

“Central-bank buying has changed the floor for gold prices,” noted a Dubai-based market analyst. “Even on pullbacks, buyers tend to step in quickly.”

What Today’s Gold Price Means for UAE Buyers

For jewellery shoppers:
Higher gold prices mean a more expensive base rate before making charges. Many buyers respond by choosing lighter designs, opting for 18K gold, or delaying purchases in anticipation of short-term dips.

For investors:
Today’s jump is a reminder that gold can move sharply in both directions. Some UAE investors use rallies to book partial profits, while others accumulate gradually during pullbacks rather than chasing spikes.

If you’re wondering about the outlook, read our detailed analysis:
👉 Will Gold Rate Decrease in Coming Days in Dubai 2026?

Key Takeaway

Today’s rise in Dubai gold prices is being driven by global market forces, not local shortages. With volatility expected to remain high, UAE buyers should track daily rate updates, watch broader price trends, and plan purchases strategically rather than reacting to single-day moves.

The victims have been identified as Ashaz, 14, Ammaar, 12, and Ayyash, 5, who died when their vehicle crashed in the early hours of Sunday while returning to Dubai from the Liwa Festival. The family’s domestic worker, Bushra Fayaz Yahu, 49, also lost her life in the accident.

The incident has been described by parents and educators as one of the most distressing Arab Unity School death cases in recent years, with students and teachers struggling to come to terms with the sudden loss of their classmates.

Funeral Held in Dubai as Community Pays Final Respects

Funeral prayers were held in Dubai, where large numbers of relatives, friends and community members gathered to offer condolences. Emotional scenes were witnessed as the brothers were laid to rest side by side, marking a heartbreaking moment for the grieving family.

Sister Discharged From Hospital

The siblings’ sister, who sustained injuries in the crash, has since been discharged from hospital and is continuing her recovery at home. Sources close to the family said she is receiving both medical and emotional care as she copes with the loss.

Schools Provide Support to Grieving Students

The tragedy has also deeply affected classmates and teachers. Schools attended by the children have introduced counselling sessions and support measures to help students process the sudden loss of their peers. Teachers reported a somber atmosphere in classrooms, with empty desks serving as a stark reminder of the lives cut short.

Renewed Focus on Road Safety

The fatal accident has renewed calls from residents and safety advocates for increased caution on long-distance journeys, particularly during busy festival periods. Community leaders emphasized the importance of adherence to traffic laws and responsible driving to prevent similar tragedies.

As condolences continue to pour in from across the UAE, the family has thanked the public for their prayers and support, requesting privacy during this time of mourning.

When Does Global Village Close This Year?

For those still asking when does Global Village close, the answer is May 10, 2026. The venue typically shuts down ahead of the peak summer months and will reopen later in the year for its next season, with dates to be announced.

What Visitors Can Expect Before Closing

Plan Ahead Before the Season Ends

Reference: https://x.com/MohamedBinZayed

In a post shared on social media, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed emphasized the importance of coming together at the start of the New Year while continuing efforts toward development, progress, and prosperity for the UAE.

The UAE President also expressed hope that 2026 would be a year of الخير والتنمية (goodness and development) for the nation, along with peace, stability, and cooperation across the world.

The message quickly gained widespread engagement online, with users responding positively to the leadership’s call for unity and forward-looking ambition.