Qatar Public Holidays 2026

2026 Holiday Summary

About Public Holidays in Qatar

Qatar's public holiday calendar is concise, focusing on the country's most significant national and Islamic occasions. Qatar National Day on 18 December is the premier celebration, marking the unification of Qatar under Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani in 1878 and observed with major public events and fireworks. Qatar occasionally adds Sport Day as a public holiday in certain years. Islamic religious holidays include Eid Al-Fitr, Eid Al-Adha, and the Prophet's Birthday, confirmed through official moon sighting. Qatar has invested significantly in workers rights protections in recent years, and private sector employees are entitled to full paid leave on all public holidays under Qatari Labour Law. Liquefied natural gas and oil form the foundation of Qatar's economy, alongside finance, tourism, and sports sectors. The standard work week runs Sunday through Thursday with the weekend on Friday and Saturday. Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha dates change each year according to the lunar Hijri calendar, with official authorities announcing final dates based on confirmed moon sightings.

Practical Information for Residents and Visitors

• Government ministries and official bodies close on all officially declared public holidays.
• Qatari Labour Law ensures private sector employees receive paid leave on public holidays.
• Qatar National Day is celebrated extensively with public events, fireworks, and street decorations.
• Islamic holiday dates are announced by Qatar's official religious authorities following moon sighting.

Gulf States