The UAE observes seven official public holidays as defined in Cabinet Resolution No. (27) of 2024. The Islamic holiday dates listed below are based on forecasts from Dubai’s Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD). Here’s how residents can maximise their annual leave for longer breaks:
1. New Year
Holiday: January 1
Take off: Friday, January 2
Break: One day of leave gives you a four-day weekend.
2. Eid Al Fitr
Holiday: Expected from March 20–22
Take off: March 16–19
Break: Use five leave days to enjoy a full seven-day holiday.
3. Arafat Day & Eid Al Adha
Holiday: Arafat Day on May 26; Eid Al Adha from May 27–29
Take off: Monday, May 25
Break: One leave day can turn this into a nine-day holiday with the weekends.
4. Islamic New Year
Holiday: June 17
Take off: June 18–19
Break: A five-day holiday with the weekend.
5. Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Birthday
Holiday: Expected on August 25
Take off: August 24
Break: One leave day creates a four-day long weekend.
6. UAE National Day
Holiday: December 2–3
Take off: November 30, December 1, and December 4
Break: Three leave days give you a nine-day holiday when weekends are included.
