As Saudi Arabia continues its rapid transformation under Vision 2030, understanding the national calendar is essential for both residents and businesses. The Saudi holiday calendar is a unique blend of fixed secular dates and shifting religious observances determined by the lunar Hijri calendar.
In 2026, the Kingdom will observe several key public holidays that impact the private sector, government offices, and educational institutions.
Key National Holidays
- Founding Day (February 22): Established by Royal Decree in 2022, this day commemorates the founding of the first Saudi state by Imam Muhammad bin Saud in 1727. It serves as a day of national pride, focusing on the historical and cultural roots of the Kingdom.
- Saudi National Day (September 23): This holiday marks the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by King Abdulaziz Al Saud in 1932. It is characterized by green-and-white festivities, parades, and firework displays across major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam.
- Flag Day (March 11): While a newer addition to the calendar (established in 2023), Flag Day is an observance that celebrates the values of the Saudi flag. In some years, it may be granted as a day off for certain sectors, though it is primarily an official observance.
Religious Observances (Lunar Dependent)
The two most significant religious holidays (Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha) do not have fixed Gregorian dates. Their timing is determined by moon sightings, meaning the dates listed below are estimates.
- Eid Al-Fitr: This “Festival of Breaking the Fast” marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan. In 2026, Ramadan is expected to begin around mid-February, with Eid Al-Fitr festivities likely starting around March 20.
- Eid Al-Adha: Known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” it coincides with the annual Hajj pilgrimage. It is preceded by the Day of Arafat, the holiest day in Islam. These holidays are expected to fall in late May 2026.
Public Holidays in 2026
Note: Religious holiday dates are subject to official moon sightings and may vary by 1–2 days.
| Holiday | Date & Day (Gregorian) | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Founding Day | February 22, 2026 (Sunday) | Public Holiday |
| Ramadan Starts* | February 18, 2026 (Wednesday) | Observance |
| Flag Day | March 11, 2026 (Wednesday) | Observance |
| Eid Al-Fitr Holiday* | March 19 – 23, 2026 (Thu – Mon) | Public Holiday |
| Day of Arafat* | May 26, 2026 (Tuesday) | Public Holiday |
| Eid Al-Adha Holiday* | May 27 – 30, 2026 (Wed – Sat) | Public Holiday |
| Islamic New Year* | June 16, 2026 (Tuesday) | Observance |
| Saudi National Day | September 23, 2026 (Wednesday) | Public Holiday |
*Expected dates based on the lunar Hijri calendar.
Planning Around Holidays in Saudi Arabia
Operating a business in Saudi Arabia requires careful planning around these breaks. Public sector employees typically enjoy longer holiday durations (sometimes up to 10 days for Eids), while the private sector usually follows a standard 4-day break.
If a public holiday falls on a weekend, the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) often grants a compensatory day off. This is typically the Sunday following or the Thursday preceding the holiday.
Our partners from RecruitGo can help ensure compliance with local labor laws, manage GOSI (social insurance) contributions, and handle complex payroll cycles. RecruitGo’s Employer of Record (EOR) and Payroll Management can assist in
- Compliant Payroll: Automated calculations that account for Saudi public holidays, overtime, and bonuses.
- EOR Services: legally employ your staff on your behalf, managing all local tax, insurance, and labor law requirements.
- Seamless Onboarding: Quickly hire and onboard local or expat talent in the Kingdom while staying fully compliant with the Nitaqat (Saudization) requirements.
Fill out the form for a free consultation with RecruitGo’s HR and compliance experts in Saudi Arabia.
