2026 Holidays - United Arab Emirates

United Arab Emirates Public Holiday Observance Rules

1. Entitlement to Public Holidays

- The United Arab Emirates (UAE) observes several public holidays each year, including national and religious celebrations. Employees are entitled to a day off with full pay on public holidays as stipulated in the UAE Labor Law. Source

2. Substitution of Holidays Falling on a Weekend

- If a public holiday falls on a weekend (Friday or Saturday), it is not typically moved to another weekday unless officially declared by the government. Employers and employees should follow official announcements for any changes. Source

3. Working on Public Holidays

- Employees required to work on public holidays are entitled to additional compensation, typically equivalent to their regular pay plus 50% or a compensatory day off, as specified in the UAE Labor Law. Source

4. Public Holidays During Paid Leave

- Public holidays occurring during an employee’s paid leave are not deducted from their total annual leave entitlement. Employees retain their full vacation allowance. Source

5. Additional Notes

- The UAE’s public holiday calendar includes both fixed holidays, like National Day, and movable Islamic holidays such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, which follow the Islamic lunar calendar. Employers and employees should monitor government announcements for the exact dates each year. Source