Best Things to Do in Dubai This Eid Al Adha 2026 Long Weekend
Eid Al Adha 2026 begins on Wednesday May 27 and the long weekend runs through Sunday May 31 — giving UAE residents a 6-day break, and up to 9 days for those taking Monday May 25 as annual leave. That is a lot of free time to fill. Whether you are staying in Dubai, exploring the UAE, or entertaining visiting family, here are the best experiences to book over the Eid break.
1. Evening desert safari with BBQ dinner — from AED 89
Nothing captures the spirit of the UAE during Eid like the desert. The evening desert safari with BBQ dinner is the perfect Eid evening activity — hotel pickup, dune bashing across the Lahbab Red Dunes, sunset on the sand, camel riding, and a full BBQ dinner at a traditional desert camp with live entertainment. From AED 89 per person including hotel pickup. Book as early as possible for Eid dates — these tours sell out quickly during long weekends.
2. Private desert safari — perfect for Eid family gatherings
Eid is a time for family. The private desert safari with premium camp dinner gives your whole family an exclusive vehicle and a private experience away from the shared tourist camps. Perfect for groups of 4-8 people who want to celebrate Eid with something special and memorable.
3. Dhow dinner cruise through Dubai Marina
The Marina dhow dinner cruise is a beautiful evening during Eid — the city lights reflect on the water, the buffet dinner is generous, and the traditional wooden boat adds a cultural touch. A great option for families who prefer a city-based experience over the desert. From AED 90 per person.
4. Quad biking and dune adventures
For the adrenaline seekers in your family, quad biking in the Dubai desert is a thrilling Eid morning activity. Back at your hotel by lunchtime, leaving the afternoon free for Eid family visits. Alternatively, the self-drive dune buggy experience puts you behind the wheel for a full dune-bashing adventure.
5. Dubai city sightseeing tour
If you have family visiting Dubai for the first time during Eid, a Dubai half-day city tour covers Old Dubai, the Gold Souk, Spice Souk, Creek, and heritage sites. A meaningful cultural experience that also connects to UAE history — fitting for Eid.
6. Jebel Jais mountain day trip
The Jebel Jais tour from Dubai is one of the best day trip options for the Eid weekend. The UAE's highest peak (1,934 metres) in Ras Al Khaimah — cool mountain air, dramatic canyon views, and a complete change of scenery from the city. A perfect full-day outing for families with children.
7. Sunrise desert safari — best for Eid morning
Start Eid morning in the most memorable way possible — watching the sunrise over empty dunes in complete silence. The Dubai sunrise desert safari picks up at 5:30 AM and has you back at your hotel by 10 AM — leaving the rest of Eid day free for family gatherings and celebrations.
Eid Al Adha 2026 dates — what you need to know
- Arafat Day (public holiday): Tuesday May 26
- Eid Al Adha: Wednesday May 27 — Friday May 29
- Weekend: Saturday May 30 — Sunday May 31
- Total break for private sector: 6 days (Tue 26 — Sun 31)
- Total break for public sector/schools: 9 days (Sat 23 — Sun 31 with Mon 25 leave)
- Work resumes: Monday June 1, 2026
Tips for the Eid long weekend in Dubai
- Book activities in advance — Eid long weekends are peak booking periods. Evening desert safaris and dhow cruises fill up fast. Book at least 2-3 days before your preferred date.
- Expect higher traffic on Eid day itself — Dubai roads and malls are busy on the morning of Eid Al Adha. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
- Many attractions have special Eid offers — check websites and social media for promotions running over the Eid break.
- Summer heat applies — late May in Dubai is warm (35-40°C in the afternoon). For outdoor activities, morning time slots are more comfortable.
Browse all Dubai Eid activities and tours. WhatsApp +971 55 534 6567 to check Eid availability and book instantly. Eid Mubarak from the Dunes to Downtown team! 🌙
