Three-Day Eid 2026 Holiday Expected in Egypt as Cabinet Prepares Decree

Egyptian public- and private-sector workers should adjust leave plans for a three-day Eid 2026 break this spring. 9: 00 a. m. ET — based on astronomical calculations, the lunar calendar is expected to set the festival’s start and prompt formal holiday decrees in the weeks ahead.

Eid 2026 dates and duration for Egypt

Based on astronomical calculations, the first day of Shawwal 1447 AH will astronomically fall on Friday, March 20, 2026, which coincides with the start of Eid al-Fitr. The Eid al-Fitr 2026 holiday for both the public and private sectors is expected to be three days long, running from Friday, March 20 through Sunday, March 22, giving employees a clear window to plan short trips or family gatherings.

Cabinet and Ministry of Labor to formalize government and private-sector days

The Cabinet will issue a decree shortly before the holiday that will specify the number of official days off for government offices. A separate decree from the Ministry of Labor will determine the holiday schedule for the private sector. Employees are awaiting the Cabinet’s official announcement, which is expected to be published on the official website at the end of Ramadan.

Saudi Arabia’s 2026 calendar highlights: February, May and September planning

Saudi Arabia’s 2026 public-holiday framework offers multiple opportunities to extend time off with minimal annual-leave use. Founding Day is observed on Sunday, February 22, and by taking Monday, February 23 as annual leave workers can convert that into a four-day break. In May, Arafat Day is expected to fall on Tuesday, May 26; taking Sunday and Monday (May 24–25) ahead of anticipated Eid al-Adha holidays can yield a minimum of nine consecutive days out of the office. For National Day on Wednesday, September 23, booking leave on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday (September 20–22 and 24) can also unlock nine consecutive days. Across those opportunities, the guidance shows a potential of 22 days out of the office while using just seven days of annual leave.

If the Cabinet confirms the astronomical calculation in its decree at the end of Ramadan, the three-day Eid 2026 holiday for public and private sectors will be formalized and published; if that confirmation holds, employees can expect the official government schedule to appear on the government website before the festival begins.