Pick a year to see holidays
Fixed holidays
| Date | Holiday | What closes |
|---|---|---|
| Feb 22 | Founding Day | Government offices; partial retail; tourist sites open |
| Sep 23 | National Day | Government offices; all schools; big events nationwide |
Lunar (Hijri) holidays — dates shift each year
| Holiday | Approximate date (lunar) | What closes |
|---|---|---|
| Eid al-Fitr (3–4 days) | 1–4 Shawwal | All government, most retail; tourist sites open |
| Eid al-Adha (3–4 days) | 10–13 Dhu al-Hijjah | All government; Hajj season peak |
| Arafat Day | 9 Dhu al-Hijjah | Some government |
| Hijra New Year (1 Muharram) | 1 Muharram | Government; some private |
How to read
- Eid al-Fitr: 3–4 day celebration. Hotel prices +50–200%. Restaurants packed.
- Eid al-Adha: coincides with Hajj season. Mecca + Medina are restricted; tourist spots elsewhere are full.
- National Day: biggest non-religious holiday. Fireworks, concerts, free events.
- Founding Day: newer (since 2022), celebrates Diriyah. Some government closures.
Limitations
• Hijri dates depend on moon confirmation. They may shift ±1–2 days.
• Private companies can choose to give or skip some; the calendar shows the minimum.
FAQ
Are museums closed on holidays?
Generally no. Most tourist sites stay open.
Is the airport closed?
No. Airports run 24/7.
Sources
- Public holidays — Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development.
- Umm al-Qura calendar — Saudi government.