With the UAE public holidays, May 2026 is not far away. Now is the time to start making plans. Here, we have plenty of ideas for activities and staycations in the UAE that rival some of the world’s most exciting and exclusive destinations, all just over an hour from Dubai.
Ras Al Khaimah resorts and hotels can take care of all the little things while you take a moment to spend time with family and friends, or take time out for a brand new adventure here in the UAE.
Key Takeaways
- May 2026 will likely feature a six-day break for Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha.
- Make the most of the extended break with a long weekend in Ras Al Khaimah, just a one-hour drive from Dubai.
- Stunning luxury and family-friendly resorts in Ras Al Khaimah are the perfect base for exploring a range of active or leisurely activities.
UAE Public Holidays May 2026 Dates
Here are the probable dates for May 2026’s public holidays in the UAE. Final dates are calculated based on moon sightings, so exact dates are announced nearer the time.
- Tuesday, May 26: Arafat Day
- Wednesday, May 27 to Friday, May 29: Eid Al Adha.
The Perfect Opportunity for an Extended Break
This year, Eid Al Adha happens from Wednesday to Friday, so it’s adjacent to the weekend. This means that a six-day break is possible without taking any annual leave, and a nine-day vacation is achieved by taking just one day of annual leave before Arafat Day.
Six or nine days is enough time to fully immerse yourself in exploring more of the UAE. Travel to remote beaches, go hiking, take a long spa break, visit some museums; so much is possible.
Things to do During the UAE Public Holidays May 2026
There are plenty of things to do to make the most of your six or nine-day holiday right here in the UAE.
Ras Al Khaimah is just one hour from Dubai and 2.5 hours from Abu Dhabi, making it ideal for a long weekend staycation. The Emirate offers a wealth of experiences not available in the cities.
Tee Off in Ras Al Khaimah
Take a break and hit the golf course.
Being close to both mountains and sea means that Al Hamra Golf Club boasts some of the best views of any golf club in the UAE. The club offers a Par-72 Championship course designed by the renowned Peter Harradine. The elegant clubhouse features excellent restaurants, where outdoor diners can make the most of the sea breeze.
Tower Links Golf Course is another fantastic option. This Par-72 course meanders through a mangrove reserve filled with fascinating bird and aquatic life. The clubhouse can also offer a spa and restaurant.
Immerse Yourself in History
Take a step back in time. Ras Al Khaimah has many fascinating sites that are culturally and historically significant, making it easy to build a UAE heritage itinerary here.
Discover coastal forts, a well=preserved but abandoned village, and Bedouin camps, for example. A visit to Suwaidi Pearls is a must for learning about the history of pearl diving. Ras Al Khaimah National Museum also holds many exquisite local artifacts.
Slow Down for a Moment
There’s a laidback atmosphere in Ras Al Khaimah that’s simply irresistible. With beautiful coastal and desert resorts, two modern malls, countless places to eat, and blissful parks and gardens, you can do as little or as much as you like.
There are many delightful public beaches in Ras Al Khaimah, some buzzing with cafes, watersports and happy families, others secluded and romantic.
UAE Staycation Ideas
The best long weekend trip requires excellent and welcoming accommodation. Settle into one of Ras Al Khaimah’s many resorts and hideaways, with options to suit every type of staycationer.
Beachside Resorts for Family Fun
All these Ras Al Khaimah hotels for families can offer kids’ clubs, a choice of pools and play areas, a safe and beautiful beach, spa facilities, and a variety of family-friendly restaurants.
Blissful Resorts for Adult Travelers
You will be spoiled for choice in this category. While not exclusively for adults, all these luxury resorts offer both privacy and exclusivity in beautiful surroundings. Dine in the resorts’ outstanding restaurants, enjoy a spa treatment, and soak up the atmosphere.
Back to Nature Accommodation
Ras Al Khaimah offers amazing opportunities to get back to basics and enjoy the great outdoors. Take some time out in nature at:
- Longbeach Campground, with beachside tents ready and waiting for you.
- RAK Glamping, a laidback and dog-friendly desert hideaway.
Ras Al Khaimah Long Weekend FAQs
Why is Ras Al Khaimah a good long-weekend base?
Ras Al Khaimah is one of the UAE’s most versatile short-break destinations, sitting just one hour from Dubai. The emirate offers a rare mix of mountain, desert, and coastal experiences.What’s a simple long-weekend itinerary for Ras Al Khaimah?
Here’s a simple three-day Ras Al Khaimah itinerary:
- A morning at Ras Al Khaimah National Museum and an afternoon exploring Suwaidi Pearls.
- A full day at your resort’s beach and spa.
- A day playing golf, shopping or visiting Ras Al Khaimah’s heritage sites.
What booking tips help during peak holiday dates?
Book accommodation and activities as early as possible for the UAE public holidays. Confirm final holiday dates once officially announced, since many UAE public holidays are subject to moon sighting.
More Inspirations for Travel to Ras Al Khaimah
Explore our Ras Al Khaimah travel information page for more tips and ideas for planning your UAE public holidays May 2026 getaway here.
