Qatar Public Holidays 2025-2026: Your Complete Planning Guide

Planning your year in Qatar? Whether you’re an expat settling into life in Doha, a long-time resident coordinating family visits, or a business owner scheduling projects, knowing Qatar’s public holiday calendar is essential.

Here’s the thing about Qatar’s holidays—they’re straightforward compared to some other Gulf countries. Qatar has four official public holidays: National Sports Day, Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and National Day. But understanding when they fall, how they affect daily life, and how to plan around them makes all the difference.

We’re in November 2025 now, so this guide covers what’s left in 2025 and gives you the complete 2026 calendar so you can plan ahead.

How Many Public Holidays Does Qatar Have?

Qatar has four official public holidays, but the total number of days off varies each year. Here’s why:

Fixed Holidays (2):

• National Sports Day (always second Tuesday of February)
• Qatar National Day (always December 18)

Islamic Holidays (2 occasions, multiple days):

• Eid Al Fitr (typically 3-4 days)
• Eid Al Adha (typically 3-5 days)

Total Annual Days Off: Usually 8-11 days, depending on how Islamic holidays fall and official government announcements.

Islamic holidays shift about 10-11 days earlier each year because they follow the lunar Hijri calendar, not the regular Gregorian calendar.

Qatar Public Holidays 2025 (Remaining)

Most of 2025’s holidays have passed, but here’s what we’ve already celebrated for reference:

National Sports Day – February 11, 2025 (Already observed)
Eid Al Fitr – March 20-22, 2025 (Already observed)
Eid Al Adha – May 28-June 1, 2025 (Already observed)

Qatar National Day 2025

Date: December 18, 2025 (Thursday)
Status: Upcoming (about 5 weeks away)

Qatar National Day commemorates December 18, 1878, when Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani succeeded his father as the ruler, establishing Qatar as a unified entity.

What Happens: This is Qatar’s biggest national celebration. Think fireworks, parades, concerts, and the whole country decked out in maroon and white (Qatar’s national colors).

Where to Experience It:

• Doha Corniche: Massive fireworks display over the bay
• Katara Cultural Village: Traditional performances, heritage exhibits
• Souq Waqif: Special cultural events and traditional celebrations
• The Pearl-Qatar: Entertainment and festivities
• Aspire Zone: Family-friendly events and activities

What’s Open/Closed:

• Government offices: Closed
• Private sector: Most businesses closed or half-day
• Malls and restaurants: Usually open with special promotions
• Tourist attractions: Open with extended hours

Pro Tip: This is the perfect time to experience Qatari culture if you’re new to the country. The atmosphere is welcoming, and everyone—Qataris and expats alike—joins the celebration.

Qatar Public Holidays 2026: Complete Calendar

Now let’s look at what really matters—planning your 2026.

1. National Sports Day 2026

Date: February 10, 2026 (Tuesday)
Duration: 1 day
Who Gets Off: Everyone (Government, Private Sector, Schools)

National Sports Day is celebrated annually on the second Tuesday in February. It’s Qatar’s way of promoting sports, health, and active lifestyles among residents.

What Actually Happens: Unlike traditional holidays where you relax at home, this day encourages everyone to get active. Companies, schools, and communities organize sports events.

Popular Activities:

• Company-organized sports tournaments
• Community fun runs and cycling events
• Beach sports at Katara or Fuwairit
• Free gym access promotions
• Sports clubs offering trial sessions
• Family-friendly activities at parks

For Expats: Many companies use this as a team-building day. If your workplace doesn’t organize anything, it’s a great excuse to explore Qatar’s outdoor spaces—try desert camping, beach volleyball, or simply walk the Corniche.

Weather: February in Qatar is perfect—comfortable temperatures around 15-25°C (59-77°F), ideal for outdoor activities.

2. Ramadan 2026

Expected Start: Late February/Early March 2026
Duration: 29-30 days
Not a public holiday, but significantly affects daily life

Ramadan is the Islamic holy month of fasting. While not officially a holiday, it transforms Qatar’s daily rhythm.

Working Hours During Ramadan: By Qatari law, working hours reduce to 6 hours per day for all employees (government and private sector). Most workplaces operate from 9 AM to 3 PM or 10 AM to 4 PM.

What Changes:

Daytime:

• No eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours (applies to everyone, including non-Muslims)
• Restaurants and cafes closed until sunset
• Slower pace of business and government services
• Quieter streets and malls

After Sunset (Iftar time):

• Everything comes alive
• Restaurants packed
• Malls extend hours until midnight or later
• Special Ramadan tents and buffets
• Social gatherings increase

For Non-Muslims: You’re not required to fast, but you must respect those who are. Eat and drink discreetly—in your office with the door closed, in hotel restaurants (most hotels have screened dining areas), or at home. Don’t eat or drink visibly in public spaces or in front of fasting colleagues.

Business Impact:

• Slower decision-making processes
• Project timelines may extend
• Government approvals take longer
• Schedule important meetings earlier in the day
• Avoid planning major launches or events during Ramadan

Cultural Experience: If invited to an Iftar (the meal breaking the fast), accept! It’s a beautiful cultural experience and shows respect for Qatari customs. Many hotels and restaurants also offer Iftar buffets that are open to everyone.

3. Eid Al Fitr 2026

Expected Dates: From the 28th day of Ramadan to the end of the 4th day of Shawwal (approximately late February/early March)
Duration: 3-4 days
Who Gets Off: Everyone

Eid al-Fitr, the Festival of Fast Breaking, marks the end of Ramadan. It’s one of Islam’s two major celebrations and the most celebrated holiday in Qatar.

Moon Sighting Note: Islamic holiday exact dates are subject to moon sightings and may differ from the date given. Official announcements typically come 1-2 days before Eid begins.

Official Holidays: Usually includes 3-4 consecutive days. The government announces the exact duration based on moon sighting confirmation.

What to Expect:

Celebrations:

• Special Eid prayers, fireworks displays, circuses, and discount sales
• Families gathering for elaborate meals
• New clothes (especially for children)
• Eidiya—money gifts given to children
• House visits between relatives and friends

Around Doha:

• Fireworks displays at major locations
• Shopping malls with massive Eid sales
• Restaurants fully booked (especially on first day)
• Tourist attractions busy with families
• Corniche and parks packed with celebrations

Travel Impact: Eid Al Fitr is THE busiest travel period in Qatar:

• Hamad International Airport extremely crowded
• Flights to South Asian destinations (Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka) fully booked and expensive
• Regional flights to other Gulf countries, Egypt, Jordan, Turkey surge in price
• Hotels in Qatar fill up with visitors coming to see family
• Book everything 2-3 months ahead minimum

What’s Open/Closed:

• Government offices: Closed for full duration
• Banks: Closed
• Most businesses: Closed for first 2-3 days, then gradually reopen
• Malls: Closed on day 1, then open with extended hours and sales
• Restaurants: Many closed on day 1, then busy
• Essential services (hospitals, pharmacies, petrol stations): Open

For Expats: This is a wonderful time to experience Qatari hospitality. If you have Qatari friends or colleagues, you might receive Eid greetings or even invitations to family gatherings. Small gifts or dates/sweets are appropriate if you’re invited to someone’s home.

4. Eid Al Adha 2026

Expected Dates: June 2026 (exact dates subject to moon sighting)
Duration: 3-5 days
Who Gets Off: Everyone

Eid al-Adha, the Feast of Sacrifice, is the most important feast in the Muslim calendar. It coincides with the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca and commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God.

Official Holidays: Typically 4-5 days, including the Day of Arafah (day before Eid). The government announces the exact duration closer to the date based on Hijri calendar calculations and moon sighting.

The Sacrifice Tradition: Families who can afford it sacrifice a sheep, goat, or cow (Qurbani/Udhiya). The meat is divided:

• One-third for the family
• One-third for friends and neighbors
• One-third for those in need

Many people now use organized services through mosques or charities that handle the sacrifice and distribute meat to the needy on their behalf, including internationally.

What Happens:

• Special Eid prayers at mosques
• Family gatherings and large meals
• New clothes and celebrations
• Visiting relatives and friends
• Charitable giving increases

Travel Situation: Similar to Eid Al Fitr but with some differences:

• Many Qatari families travel during this Eid
• International flights expensive and busy
• Domestic tourism (within Qatar) also picks up
• Hotels in Qatar slightly less busy than during Eid Al Fitr

Weather Warning: June in Qatar means summer heat has arrived. Daytime temperatures can reach 40-45°C (104-113°F). If staying in Qatar:

• Plan indoor activities during midday
• Beach and water activities early morning or evening
• Desert camping not comfortable (too hot)
• Malls and indoor entertainment venues are packed

What’s Open/Closed: Similar to Eid Al Fitr:

• Government and most businesses closed for first 2-3 days
• Gradual reopening after initial celebrations
• Essential services remain operational
• Shopping and entertainment venues reopen quickly with sales

5. Qatar National Day 2026

Date: December 18, 2026 (Friday)
Duration: 1 day
Who Gets Off: Everyone

Since December 18, 2026, falls on a Friday (already a weekend day in Qatar), watch for official announcements about potential compensation or extension of the holiday.

The Celebration: Qatar’s biggest patriotic event, marking the country’s founding and unity.

What to Expect:

• Massive fireworks over Doha Bay
• Parades featuring military, police, and cultural groups
• Free concerts with Arab and international performers
• Traditional dance and music performances
• Historical exhibitions and heritage displays
• Streets decorated in maroon and white

Where to Be:

• Corniche: Front-row view of fireworks
• Souq Waqif: Traditional celebrations
• Katara Cultural Village: Cultural performances
• Education City: Family events
• Lusail Boulevard: Modern celebrations

Participatory Culture: Qataris and expats alike participate enthusiastically:

• Cars decorated with Qatari flags
• People wearing traditional dress or maroon/white clothing
• Face painting with Qatar flag colors
• Social media flooded with celebrations

Shopping: Major sales across all sectors—electronics, fashion, dining, entertainment. It’s one of the best shopping weekends of the year.

Understanding Qatar’s Weekend

Important: Qatar’s official weekend is Friday and Saturday.

This is crucial for planning because:

• When a public holiday falls on Friday, there may or may not be a compensation day
• Government offices are already closed on weekends
• Thursday is the last working day of the week

How This Affects Holidays: If National Day or any other holiday falls on Friday or Saturday, the government usually announces whether Sunday will be given as a compensatory day off. Watch official announcements from the Cabinet.

Private vs. Government Sector: Your Rights

The Law is Clear: All employees in Qatar—government or private sector—are entitled to the same public holidays with full pay. This is mandated by Qatar Labor Law.

Your Rights as an Employee:

• Same public holidays as government employees
• Full salary during holidays
• If required to work on a public holiday, you must receive either:
  • A compensatory day off
  • OR overtime pay (typically time-and-a-half or double time)

Exceptions—Essential Services: Some sectors must operate during holidays:

• Healthcare (hospitals, clinics)
• Hospitality (hotels, restaurants)
• Transportation (airport, airlines)
• Security and emergency services
• Some retail operations

If you work in essential services and must work during holidays, your employer MUST compensate you appropriately—either with replacement days off or premium pay. If they don’t, you can file a complaint with the Ministry of Labour.

Filing a Complaint: If your employer violates your holiday rights:

• Contact Ministry of Labour
• File complaint through Hukoomi (government services portal)
• Call Labour Relations Department: +974 4406 9666
• Keep documentation (contracts, pay slips, communications)

School Holidays in Qatar

For parents coordinating family plans, here are typical school holiday periods:

Mid-Year Break (Winter):

• Usually late December to early January
• Coincides with National Day and New Year
• About 2 weeks

Spring Break:

• Often coincides with or is near Eid Al Fitr
• About 1-2 weeks
• Varies by school curriculum type

Summer Holidays:

• Late June to late August/early September
• Longest break: 8-10 weeks
• Coincides with Qatar’s hottest months

Important Note: School calendars vary significantly:

• Qatar Foundation schools
• Independent schools (Ministry of Education)
• International schools (British, American, IB, Indian, etc.)

Always confirm with your specific school. International schools often follow their home country’s academic calendar.

Planning Your Year: Smart Strategies

Maximizing Long Weekends

Bridge Holiday Strategy: Use annual leave strategically to create extended breaks.

Example for 2026:

• National Sports Day (February 10, Tuesday): Take Monday off = 4-day weekend
• If National Day gets a compensatory day = potential 3-4 day weekend in December

Travel Planning Timeline

For Eid Holidays:

• Book 3-4 months ahead: Flights and hotels
• 2 months ahead: Rental cars, tours, activities
• 1 month ahead: Restaurant reservations, event tickets

For Regular Long Weekends:

• 6-8 weeks ahead: International travel
• 2-4 weeks ahead: Regional trips (Oman, UAE, Bahrain)
• 1-2 weeks ahead: Local staycations

Budget Planning

Expected Holiday Expenses:

Eid Celebrations (per Eid):

• New clothes for family: QAR 1,000-3,000
• Eidiya for children: QAR 500-1,500
• Special meals and sweets: QAR 600-1,200
• Social obligations: QAR 300-800

International Travel (Family of 4):

• Flights during Eid: QAR 12,000-25,000
• Accommodation: QAR 4,000-8,000
• Activities and meals: QAR 3,000-6,000

Money-Saving Tips:

• Book flights on Tuesday/Wednesday (cheaper than weekends)
• Travel 2-3 days before or after exact Eid dates for better prices
• Use credit card points accumulated throughout the year
• Consider alternative destinations (less popular = cheaper)
• Set up monthly “holiday fund” savings

Tips for Expats Living in Qatar

During Ramadan

Do’s:

• Eat and drink only in private spaces
• Dress more conservatively than usual
• Show respect during prayer times
• Wish colleagues “Ramadan Kareem” or “Ramadan Mubarak”
• Accept Iftar invitations—they’re wonderful experiences

Don’ts:

• Don’t eat, drink, or smoke in public during daylight
• Don’t play loud music in public spaces
• Don’t show frustration with slower service
• Don’t schedule demanding meetings late in the day

During Eid Holidays

Cultural Participation:

• Exchange Eid greetings with Muslim colleagues
• Small gifts appropriate if invited to homes (dates, sweets, chocolates)
• Children can receive Eidiya from Qatari friends
• Dress modestly if attending any gatherings

What’s Acceptable: You don’t need to be Muslim to join celebrations. Qataris appreciate when expats show interest in their culture and traditions.

During National Day

Get Involved:

• Decorate your car with Qatar flags (sold everywhere in December)
• Wear maroon or white, or traditional Qatari dress if you have it
• Attend public celebrations and fireworks
• Take photos at decorated landmarks
• Share positive experiences on social media

It shows respect for your host country and helps you feel more integrated into Qatari society.

Staying Updated: Official Resources

Government Sources:

• Hukoomi: The official Qatar government portal (hukoomi.gov.qa)
• Ministry of Interior: Official announcements
• Qatar News Agency (QNA): Primary news source
• Cabinet Affairs: Holiday announcements

Apps:

• Hukoomi app: Government services and announcements
• Metrash2: Ministry of Interior services
• Qatar Red Crescent: Ramadan and Eid-related services

News Outlets:

• The Peninsula Qatar
• Gulf Times
• Doha News
• Qatar Tribune

Social Media: Follow official government accounts on Twitter/X and Instagram for real-time holiday announcements, especially for moon sighting confirmations.

Travel Tips During Qatar Holidays

Hamad International Airport

During Eid Holidays:

• Arrive 4 hours before international flights
• Check-in counters get extremely long queues
• Immigration can take 1-2 hours during peak times
• Family sections available but still crowded

Tips:

• Online check-in whenever possible
• Fast-track services available for premium travelers
• Lounge access helps avoid crowds
• Download airline apps for real-time updates

Driving and Transportation

During Ramadan:

• Traffic lighter during the day
• Extremely heavy just before Iftar (everyone rushing home)
• Roads nearly empty for 30 minutes after Iftar
• Late-night traffic increases

During Eid:

• Lighter traffic (many people traveling or at home)
• Corniche and tourist areas busy
• Parking difficult at malls and attractions

Border Crossings

To Saudi Arabia (Abu Samra):

• Can be congested during Eid
• Ensure all documents ready
• Consider travel insurance

You can check Saudi Arabia public holidays calender.

To UAE (via Oman):

• Popular route during long weekends
• Book hotels in advance
• Check visa requirements for all countries

You can check UAE public holidays calender.

Quick Reference: 2026 Holiday Summary

Total Public Holiday Days: Approximately 8-11 days

Fixed Holidays:

• February 10: National Sports Day
• December 18: Qatar National Day

Islamic Holidays (subject to moon sighting):

• Late February/Early March: Eid Al Fitr (3-4 days)
• June: Eid Al Adha (4-5 days)

Key Planning Dates:

• Book Eid Al Fitr travel: By December 2025
• Book Eid Al Adha travel: By March 2026
• Submit annual leave requests: Early January 2026

Final Thoughts

Qatar’s public holiday calendar is straightforward but requires planning—especially for the Islamic holidays that depend on moon sighting. With only 4-5 official holiday occasions, making the most of them means thinking ahead.