UAE National Day: 3-day Eid Al Etihad break announced for public sector

UAE employees can now start planning their final long weekend of the year as the government has announced a three-day paid holiday for the public sector to mark the country's 55th National Day, also known as Eid Al Etihad.

December 2, 3 and 4, falling on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, have been declared official holidays for ministries and federal government entities. Regular working hours will resume on Monday, December 7.

This means employees who usually enjoy Saturday and Sunday as their weekly weekend will get a five-day break from December 2 to 6 without using an annual leave day.

The Eid Al Etihad holidays traditionally fall on December 2 and 3. By including December 4 in this year's official holiday schedule, the government has created an extended break for public sector employees.

UAE's Public Holiday Transfer Rule Explained

The UAE introduced a public holiday transfer rule in 2025, allowing certain official holidays falling in the middle of the week to be moved to the beginning or end of the week.

The measure aims to create longer consecutive breaks by connecting public holidays with regular weekends.

Last year, UAE residents were initially scheduled to receive National Day holidays on December 2 and 3, which fell on Tuesday and Wednesday. However, under the holiday transfer arrangement, the dates were moved to December 1 and 2, Monday and Tuesday.

This gave residents a four-day break, allowing them to enjoy more time away from work.

The extended National Day holiday also gives residents an opportunity to plan short trips, staycations, family gatherings and leisure activities as the UAE enters its cooler winter season.

UAE Celebrates 55 Years of the Union

The UAE's National Day commemorates the unification of the seven emirates in 1971 and the formation of the United Arab Emirates.

In 2026, the country will celebrate 55 years of the Union, marking more than five decades of national development, shared achievements and cultural heritage.

Eid Al Etihad is an important occasion that brings families and communities together to celebrate the country's identity, traditions and progress.

The celebrations honour the UAE's journey, recognise its achievements and highlight the shared values that connect citizens and residents across the seven emirates.

55th Eid Al Etihad to Celebrate Families and Communities

This year's National Day celebrations will focus on the families, generations and communities that have contributed to shaping the UAE over the past 55 years.

The theme highlights the traditions, shared experiences and values that bring people together across the Emirates.

Coinciding with the UAE's Year of Family 2026, the 55th Eid Al Etihad will celebrate the nation as a "family of families", reflecting the sense of belonging, unity and togetherness shared by citizens and residents.

The initiative will recognise the importance of family connections in strengthening communities and preserving the country's cultural identity.

National Day Celebrations Across the UAE

Abu Dhabi, Dubai and the other emirates are expected to host a variety of activities and entertainment during the National Day holiday.

Residents and visitors can look forward to celebrations featuring:

Cultural performances and traditional shows.
Heritage parades highlighting Emirati traditions.
Family-friendly entertainment and activities.
Diverse food offerings and special dining experiences.
Festive events and attractions at popular destinations.

With a five-day break for public sector employees, the 55th Eid Al Etihad holiday offers residents more time to participate in celebrations, explore destinations and spend quality time with their families.

As the UAE marks 55 years of unity and progress, the extended holiday will provide an opportunity for communities across the country to come together and celebrate the nation's heritage and achievements