Eid Holidays in the Middle East: How Many Days Off Each Country Gets
Eid al-Fitr breaks are among the most anticipated holidays in the Middle East, offering a chance to celebrate with family, travel, or simply unwind.
But not every country gives the same amount of time off. Some offer nearly a full week, while others keep it brief. With 2025’s Eid al-Fitr break approaching, here’s how different countries are handling it!
1. Kuwait: Up to 6 Days Off
Kuwait might have one of the longest Eid breaks this year. If Eid falls on Monday, the holiday runs from Sunday to Thursday—six full days off. That’s plenty of time for travel or extended family gatherings, a luxury not everyone gets.
However, if Eid starts on Sunday, the break shrinks to just three days. Since the exact start of Eid depends on moon sighting, workers and students will have to wait for the official confirmation of their break length.
2. Oman: 5 Days Off
Oman has taken a middle-ground approach, granting a five-day break from March 29 (Saturday) to April 2 (Wednesday). The break gives people enough time to celebrate without being too disruptive for work and school.
This schedule aligns with previous years, providing consistency for businesses and institutions to plan ahead.
3. Saudi Arabia: 4 to 10 Days Off (Varies by Sector)
Saudi Arabia tailors its Eid break based on sector. Students get the most time off, starting on March 20, for a full ten-day holiday.
As for government employees, they receive six days, from March 27 to April 2. Banks have the shortest break, from March 30 to April 2, ensuring financial services remain available. This staggered approach balances extended holidays with keeping essential services running.
4. Egypt: 4 Days Off
Egypt has set a four-day break for both government and private sector employees from March 29 to April 1.
If Ramadan lasts 30 days, the break extends to April 2. Both government and private sector employees will receive paid leave, ensuring they can fully participate in the celebrations without worrying about breaking the bank!
5. UAE: 3 to 4 Days Off
The UAE has announced a three-day Eid break for both public and private sectors, running from March 30 to April 1. If Ramadan extends to 30 days, the holiday will be extended by one more day to April 2. Unfortunately, this marks the shortest break in the region.
A Time For Celebration
From Kuwait’s potential six-day holiday to Egypt’s structured four-day plan, each country takes a different approach. Some prioritize long breaks, while others focus on maintaining productivity. While a longer holiday might seem ideal, it’s all about finding the right balance between celebration and practicality!
WE ALSO SAID: Don’t Miss…It’s Not Eid Without Kahk: The Story Behind This Iconic Treat
