Eid al-Adha is one of the most significant dates in the Islamic calendar, and for many workers in the UK, it is a key time for family gatherings, prayer, and celebration. Because the date is based on the lunar calendar, it shifts every year, making forward planning essential for those who need to book annual leave.
When is Eid al-Adha 2026?
In 2026, Eid al-Adha is expected to begin on the evening of Tuesday, 26 May and end on the evening of Wednesday, 27 May.
The main day of celebration, known as the 10th of Dhul Hijjah, is expected to fall on Wednesday, 27 May 2026.
It is important to remember that these dates are tentative. The actual start of Eid al-Adha depends on the sighting of the new moon, which means the date can vary by a day or two depending on your location and the religious authority you follow.
Why does the date change?
Unlike the Gregorian calendar, which is based on the sun, the Islamic (Hijri) calendar is lunar. This means it is about 10 to 11 days shorter than the solar year. As a result, Islamic holidays like Eid al-Adha and Eid al-Fitr move “backwards” through the seasons over time.
In 2026, Eid al-Adha falls shortly after the Spring Bank Holiday (Monday, 25 May), which creates a unique opportunity for those looking to maximise their time off.
Planning your leave for Eid
Because Eid al-Adha is not a statutory bank holiday in the UK, most workers will need to use their annual leave entitlement to take the day off.
If you are planning to celebrate, it is a good idea to book your leave as early as possible. Many workplaces operate on a “first-come, first-served” basis for popular dates. Using a tool like Offdays can help you visualize how your Eid leave fits into the rest of your year, ensuring you have enough days left for other important events.
Tips for booking Eid leave:
- Check the Spring Bank Holiday: Since the bank holiday is on Monday, 25 May, booking Tuesday and Wednesday off would give you a five-day break while only using two days of annual leave.
- Add a buffer day: Because the exact date of Eid depends on a moon sighting, some people choose to book an extra day before or after the expected date to ensure they are covered.
- Communicate early: Let your manager know that your requested dates are for a religious festival; most employers are supportive of religious observations when given enough notice.
Staying organised
Keeping track of shifting dates like Eid al-Adha alongside fixed bank holidays can be tricky. Offdays makes it easier by letting you map out your entire leave year in one place. By seeing the whole year at a glance, you can spot these “leave-stacking” opportunities early and make sure you’re always ready for the celebrations that matter most.