The UAE has confirmed a four-day long weekend for government employees as the nation prepares to celebrate Eid Al Etihad, the new name for National Day.
Public sector workers will receive paid holidays on Monday, December 1, and Tuesday, December 2. Regular working hours will resume on Wednesday, December 3. When combined with the weekend, residents can look forward to an extended four-day break.
The announcement follows a Cabinet resolution that came into effect on January 1, 2025, allowing certain national holidays to be moved to the beginning or end of the week if they fall midweek. An earlier schedule had placed the Eid Al Etihad holidays on December 2 and 3, but this year the dates were shifted following a Cabinet decision. The rule does not apply to Eid holidays and can only be activated when officially approved.
The UAE’s unified holiday policy ensures both public and private sector employees receive equal time off throughout the year, supporting work-life balance across the nation.
Eid Al Etihad commemorates the historic union of the seven emirates on December 2, 1971. The occasion brings together citizens and residents in a nationwide celebration of heritage, unity and progress.
Across Abu Dhabi, Dubai and the other emirates, major destinations will host cultural performances, heritage parades, family-friendly entertainment, culinary events and new experiences throughout the long weekend.
Dubai’s line-up includes concerts, comedy shows, theatre productions and sporting events, with highlights such as Emirati star Balqees performing live at Festival Bay. Spectacular fireworks displays will also light up the city’s skyline as part of the festivities.
