Private-sector employees in the UAE will receive two paid holidays for the country’s 55th Eid Al Etihad celebrations on December 2 and 3, 2026.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) confirmed the dates for Wednesday and Thursday. Employees who normally work on Fridays will return to work on December 4.
The announcement confirms the private-sector holiday arrangements for this year’s National Day celebrations. It follows an earlier announcement covering federal government employees.
UAE private-sector holiday dates for 2026
The two-day holiday applies to private-sector employees across the UAE.
The schedule is as follows:
- Wednesday, December 2: Paid National Day holiday
- Thursday, December 3: Paid National Day holiday
- Friday, December 4: Normal working day for employees scheduled to work
The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) had earlier announced a three-day paid holiday for federal government employees.
Federal employees will have leave from December 2 to December 4. Combined with the regular Saturday and Sunday weekend, this creates a five-day break.
Private-sector employees, however, will receive two official holiday days under MoHRE’s announcement. Their Friday work schedule remains unchanged.
UAE marks its 55th Eid Al Etihad
The UAE will celebrate its 55th Eid Al Etihad in 2026. The celebrations also coincide with the country’s Year of Family.
This year’s theme recognises the generations and communities that have contributed to the UAE’s development. It presents the country as a connected community built on shared values and experiences.
Eid Al Etihad, formerly known as National Day, marks the UAE’s unification on December 2, 1971.
Six emirates initially formed the federation under the leadership of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Ras Al Khaimah joined in early 1972.
The country traditionally marks the occasion with nationwide celebrations and an official ceremony attended by its rulers.
What employers and employees need to know
For private-sector employers, the confirmed dates provide clarity for December workforce planning.
Businesses can now plan staffing, shift schedules and operational coverage around the two-day holiday.
Employees should also note that December 4 remains a working day for those whose normal schedules include Fridays.
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