Government Extends Eid al-Adha Holidays Ahead of June Celebrations
The Maldives government has announced additional public holidays ahead of this year’s Eid al-Adha celebrations, giving many state employees a longer festive break with their families.
According to the The President's Office, President Mohamed Muizzu has declared Sunday, May 24, and Monday, May 25, 2026, as government holidays.
Longer Eid Break for Government Employees
Officials said the move was made to create an extended holiday period before the Eid al-Adha holidays officially begin. The decision is expected to allow government employees more uninterrupted time to travel, reunite with relatives, and prepare for the religious celebration.
With the newly announced holidays included, government offices will remain closed until the end of the Eid break and are scheduled to reopen on Sunday, May 31.
For many families across the Maldives, Eid holidays are often one of the busiest travel periods of the year. Inter-island travel typically increases as people return to their home islands to celebrate with loved ones. Could this extended break also provide a boost for domestic tourism and local businesses? Many are likely hoping so.
Eid al-Adha Holidays Scheduled for Late June
This year, Hajj Day is expected to fall on June 26, while the official Eid al-Adha public holidays are scheduled from June 27 to June 30.
Eid al-Adha, one of the most significant holidays in the Islamic calendar, is widely observed across the Maldives with communal prayers, family gatherings, and charitable activities.
The government occasionally extends holiday periods around major Islamic celebrations to support family time and ease travel arrangements, particularly during peak festive seasons.
Impact on Public Services
While government offices will remain closed during the extended break, essential services are expected to continue operating as usual. Banks, transport services, healthcare facilities, and tourism-related businesses are also likely to maintain operations during the holiday period, though some services may operate on adjusted schedules.
Residents are advised to check with relevant institutions for any temporary changes to operating hours during the extended closure.
