Planning your vacations ahead? Here is the complete list of Saudi Arabia public holidays 2026, including Eid holidays, Saudi National Day, and Founding Day. Employees in Saudi Arabia can expect at least 10 official public holidays in 2026, while government staff usually enjoy extended breaks during Eid seasons.
Overview of Saudi Arabia Public Holidays 2026
Public holidays in Saudi Arabia are observed on four major occasions every year:
- Saudi Founding Day
- Eid al-Fitr
- Eid al-Adha
- Saudi National Day
List of Public Holidays in Saudi Arabia – 2026
- 22 February (Sunday): Saudi Founding Day – 1 day holiday
- 20 to 23 March (Friday to Monday): Eid al-Fitr Holidays – 4 days (dates may change based on moon sighting)
- 26 to 29 May (Tuesday to Friday): Eid al-Adha Holidays – 4 days (dates may change based on crescent sighting)
- 23 September (Wednesday): Saudi National Day – 1 day holiday
Employees required to work on official holidays may receive overtime compensation or an alternative paid day off, depending on company policy.
Government vs Private Sector Holidays in Saudi Arabia
Government employees usually receive longer Eid holidays—often 7 or more days for both Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha—along with one-day holidays for Saudi Founding Day and Saudi National Day.
Private sector employees generally receive the officially declared public holidays only.
Weekend Holidays in Saudi Arabia
Most businesses in Saudi Arabia observe Friday and Saturday as weekly holidays. Some organizations may observe Friday only, depending on internal policy.
Other Types of Leave in Saudi Arabia
Annual Vacation Leave
All employees are entitled to 21 days of paid annual leave after completing one year of service. Employees with over five years of service are entitled to 30 days of paid leave annually.
Hajj Leave
Employees performing Hajj for the first time are entitled to 10 days of paid leave.
Marriage Leave
Employees are entitled to 5 days of paid leave upon marriage.
Paternity Leave
Fathers are entitled to 3 days of paid leave following childbirth.
Bereavement Leave
- 5 days paid leave for the death of a spouse or direct family member
- Women receive iddah leave (about 4 months and 10 days) if their husband passes away
- 3 days paid leave for the death of a sibling
Maternity Leave
Expecting women are entitled to 12 weeks of paid maternity leave, including 6 mandatory weeks after childbirth.
Exam Leave
Employees enrolled in educational institutions may receive paid exam leave.
Sick Leave
Employees are entitled to sick leave as per Saudi labor law and company policy.
