Qatar public holidays to come in 2026

Qatar has three public holidays remaining in 2026, creating opportunities for travel agents to drive bookings. 

 

Qatar’s residents will have time off in May for Islamic holidays of Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha, as well as in December for Qatar National Day, amounting to a total of six days. Travellers can maximise existing holidays by combining them with annual leave to create extended breaks. 

 

The country recently reopened its airspace to foreign airlines following a temporary closure that began on 28 February 2026 amid regional conflict. The move restores international connectivity through Doha’s Hamad International Airport (DOH) and comes ahead of the Eid holidays, offering increased travel options during the peak period. 

 

RELATED:

Qatar Airways extends complimentary flight change

Qatar Airways to rebuild schedule from mid-May

Etihad and Qatar Airways ease loyalty programme requirements 

 

Qatar National Day: Friday 18 December 

Qatar’s final holiday of the 2026 calendar will its National Day, held annually on 18 December. The public holiday is likely to be observed on Thursday 17 December to create a three-day weekend.

 

The occasion also coincides with the start of winter break for many Qatari schools, offering a key opportunity for family travel, ahead of the peak Christmas and New Year’s holiday traffic. 

 

Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha: Tuesday 26 to Saturday 30 May 

Final dates are subject to moon sighting, but it is likely that Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha will take place consecutively from Tuesday 26 to Saturday 30 May. By suggesting travellers take additional leave on Sunday 24 and Monday 25 May, agents can book nine-day holidays for their clients. 

 

The late May window also offers shoulder season travel opportunities in Europe ahead of the school holidays and higher temperatures between June and August.