UAE announces January 1, 2026, as official New Years holiday for public-sector employees

The UAE federal authority has announced that Thursday, January 1, 2026, will be an official paid New Year’s holiday for public-sector employees. Friday, January 2, 2026, will be a remote-work day, helping staff balance duties and family time, while on-site roles must report as usual. 

Expats and visitors can expect major celebrations, especially in Ras Al Khaimah, which is planning a 15-minute fireworks show over 6 km using 2,300+ drones, pyrotechnics, and lasers, with an attempt to set a Guinness World Record.