Federal government employees will enjoy a five-day break, including the weekend, while private sector workers receive two paid holidays in December
Dubai, UAE: The UAE has officially announced the Eid Al Etihad holidays for public and private sector employees to mark the country’s 55th National Day. Federal government workers will receive three days off, while private sector employees will enjoy a two-day paid holiday in December 2026.
The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) confirmed the holiday schedules on Friday, November 13.
Eid Al Etihad Holiday Dates Confirmed
Federal government employees will have holidays from Wednesday, December 2, to Friday, December 4. With the regular Saturday and Sunday weekend, many government workers will enjoy five consecutive days off. Official working hours will resume on Monday, December 7.
Meanwhile, private sector employees will receive paid holidays on Wednesday, December 2, and Thursday, December 3. The announcement applies to employees across private sector establishments in the UAE.
UAE Eid Al Etihad 2026 Holiday Schedule
| Federal government | December 2–4 (3 days) |
| Private sector | December 2–3 (2 paid days) |
| Federal work resumes | Monday, December 7 |
UAE Celebrates 55 Years of Unity
Eid Al Etihad marks the formation of the United Arab Emirates on December 2, 1971. Six emirates initially formed the federation under the leadership of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Ras Al Khaimah joined in February 1972.
This year’s celebrations also coincide with the UAE’s Year of Family, highlighting the importance of families, communities and shared national values.
Impact to Expect
The confirmed holidays give residents an opportunity to plan travel, family gatherings and National Day celebrations.
Private sector employees who normally have Saturday and Sunday off could enjoy a five-day break by securing annual leave approval for Friday, December 4. Federal government employees will already have five consecutive days off without using additional annual leave
