UAE Announces 4-Day Weekend for Eid Al Etihad Celebrations
The United Arab Emirates has announced a four-day weekend for public sector workers to celebrate Eid Al Etihad, the country’s National Day holiday.
The UAE government confirmed on Monday that December 1 and 2 will be paid holidays for all government employees. Federal ministries and offices will reopen on Wednesday, December 3. When combined with the regular weekend on Saturday and Sunday, workers will get four consecutive days off.
Holiday Schedule Adjusted
Originally, the government had planned to give holidays on Tuesday, December 2, and Wednesday, December 3. However, these dates have now been moved to Monday, December 1, and Tuesday, December 2.
This change follows a Cabinet decision that came into effect in January 2025. The new rule allows public holidays to be shifted to the beginning or end of the week if they fall on weekdays. This helps create longer weekends for workers.
The adjustment does not apply to Eid holidays and requires a special Cabinet decision each time.
Equal Breaks for All Workers
The UAE has a unified holiday policy that applies to both government and private sector employees. This ensures that all workers across the country receive the same number of holidays throughout the year.
What is Eid Al Etihad?
Eid Al Etihad is the official name for the UAE’s National Day. It celebrates December 2, 1971, when seven emirates came together to form the United Arab Emirates. The occasion brings families and communities together to honor the country’s history and look forward to its future.
Celebrations Across the Emirates
Cities across the UAE will host special events throughout the long weekend. Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and other emirates have planned various activities for residents and visitors.
In Dubai, celebrations will include live concerts featuring popular artists like Emirati singer Balqees at Festival Bay. Families can enjoy comedy shows, theater performances, and sporting events. The weekend will conclude with fireworks displays lighting up the sky across the city.
Cultural events, heritage parades, food festivals, and entertainment programs will take place at popular destinations throughout the emirates.
