Saudi Arabia declares Eid Al Fitr holiday for private, non-profit sector employees

The Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has announced the official Eid Al Fitr holiday for employees in the private and non-profit sectors, with the break set to begin at the end of the working day on Wednesday, March 18, 2026.

According to the ministry, the holiday will start after the close of business on 29 Ramadan 1447 AH and will last for four days, in line with provisions of the Saudi Labour Law.

Announcing the decision, Mohammed Al Ruzaiqi, the ministry’s official spokesperson, said the move is intended to give both employers and employees clarity ahead of the festive period.

“The announcement aims to provide clarity for employers and employees ahead of the holiday period, allowing organisations to organise work schedules and ensure operational continuity in essential sectors while safeguarding workers’ rights to the festive break,” Al Ruzaiqi said.

He also stressed the importance of compliance with Article 24 of the executive regulations of the Saudi Labour Law, which governs official holidays and guarantees workers the right to paid leave during religious and national occasions.

The regulations further stipulate that employees are entitled to compensation if official holidays coincide with weekly rest days, or if operational requirements require them to work during the Eid holiday. In such cases, arrangements must be made in accordance with established labour provisions to ensure employees receive the appropriate compensation. 

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has already declared Eid Al Fitr holidays for both public and private sector employees starting March 19, 2026. “The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has announced that the Eid Al Fitr holiday for the private sector will run from Thursday, March 19 to Saturday, March 21, 2026, and will be a paid holiday for all employees,” the ministry said.