The holiday in UAE, what it represents and when the event falls in 2026
Israa wal Miraj is often referred to as “the Prophet’s Ascension” and marks a significant event in Islamic history. The night of the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH), when he travelled from Masjid Al Haram, Makkah, to Masjid Al Aqsa, Jerusalem and then his ascension into the heavens is commemorated.
In 2026, Israa wal Miraj is observed on the Friday 16th of January. This corresponds to the 27th of Rajab.
Is the UAE observing Isra Wal Miraj as a national holiday?
No. Israa Wal Miraj in UAE is not a public holiday.
The UAE does not include this holiday in its official calendar of public holidays. In 2019, the UAE removed the holiday when it unified the public and private sectors’ holidays in order to streamline its national holiday system.
Israa Wal Miraj is still a holiday for some countries in the region, such as Oman and Kuwait.
What is Isra Wal-Miraj?
Also called the night journey, Israa Wal Miraj commemorates both events.
- Isra The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH’s journey between Makkah and Jerusalem
- His Ascension Through the Heavens
Muslims commemorate the event through prayer, reflection and remembering its spiritual meaning.
What is the next UAE public holiday?
Ramadan will begin sometime between 17 February 2026 and 18 February 2026. the first day is currently on February 18, subject to moon sighting.
The following public holiday is Eid al-Fitr which celebrates the end of Ramadan. Eid Al Fitr is set to start in the UAE on March 20 20.
In the UAE, the first three days of Shawwal are public holidays. However, the holiday period may differ depending on whether Ramadan lasts 29 days or 30.
Remaining UAE Public Holidays in 2026
Later in the year, you can expect to see:
- Shawwal 1-3: Eid Al Fitr (March 20)
- Dhu Al Hijjah 9: Arafat Day (May 26)
- Dhu Al Hijjah 10-12: Eid Al Adha (May 27)
- Muharram 1: Islamic New Year (June 16)
- Rabi Al Awwal 12: Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Birthday (August 19)
- December 2-3: Eid Al Etihad (UAE National Day)
Please note that Islamic holidays are based on the lunar calendar, and can change depending on sightings of the moon. The official dates will be confirmed closer to the event.
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