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Saudi Arabia (SA)

Saudi Arabia is the largest country in the Middle East and the world's leading oil producer — a rapidly transforming absolute monarchy embarking on an ambitious Vision 2030 diversification agenda that has already delivered entertainment venues, mixed-gender events, a booming tourism sector, and the Riyadh Metro.

Capital: Riyadh
Region: Middle East
Language: Arabic
Currency: SAR (ر.س)
Cost of living: Moderate (index 60)
Emergency: 911

Public Holidays 2026

11 holidays in Saudi Arabia. Some may vary by region.

February 2026

Sun 22
Founding Day Public Holiday
يوم التأسيس
Established in 2022 to mark the 1727 founding of the first Saudi state by Imam Muhammad bin Saud. Major national celebration with fireworks, cultural events, and green illuminations across cities.
Wed 18
Ramadan (begins) Optional
شهر رمضان
Ramadan 2026 is estimated to begin around February 18–19 (subject to moon sighting). During Ramadan, working hours are reduced by 2 hours for all employees (both Muslim and non-Muslim). Eating, drinking, and smoking in public during daylight hours is prohibited by law — fines and detention apply to non-Muslims too. Business hours shift significantly; restaurants open only after iftar (sunset).

March 2026

Wed 18
Eid al-Fitr (Day 1) Public Holiday
عيد الفطر
Marks the end of Ramadan. Saudi Arabia typically announces Eid 1–2 days earlier than other countries based on its official moon sighting committee. 2026 estimated start: March 18. Exact date subject to official announcement. Government offices closed; private sector follows ministry guidelines.
Thu 19
Eid al-Fitr (Day 2) Public Holiday
عيد الفطر
Second day of Eid al-Fitr holiday. Families gather, children receive Eidiyya (cash gifts). Malls and shopping centres are very busy.
Fri 20
Eid al-Fitr (Day 3) Public Holiday
عيد الفطر
Third day of Eid al-Fitr holiday.
Sat 21
Eid al-Fitr (Day 4) Public Holiday
عيد الفطر
Fourth day of Eid al-Fitr holiday. Saudi Arabia typically observes 4 days of Eid al-Fitr.

May 2026

Wed 27
Eid al-Adha (Day 1) Public Holiday
عيد الأضحى
Feast of Sacrifice, the larger of the two Eid celebrations. Pilgrims complete Hajj in Mecca. Typically 4 official holidays (Eid al-Adha 1–4). 2026 estimated date — exact date subject to moon sighting. Non-Muslims not permitted in Mecca and Medina.
Thu 28
Eid al-Adha (Day 2) Public Holiday
عيد الأضحى
Second day of Eid al-Adha. Major family celebrations, livestock slaughter, meat distribution to the poor.
Fri 29
Eid al-Adha (Day 3) Public Holiday
عيد الأضحى
Third day of Eid al-Adha holiday.
Sat 30
Eid al-Adha (Day 4) Public Holiday
عيد الأضحى
Fourth day of Eid al-Adha holiday. Extended holiday common in government sector.

September 2026

Wed 23
National Day Public Holiday
اليوم الوطني
Saudi Arabia's National Day marks the unification of the kingdom on September 23, 1932, by King Abdulaziz ibn Saud. Major celebrations with fireworks, concerts, drone shows, and national pride events. Green and white decorations appear across cities weeks in advance.
Note: Some holidays in Saudi Arabia apply only to specific regions or states. Check local regulations for your area.