Eid Al Etihad holiday: UAE confirms paid December break
Private-sector employees throughout the UAE, including Dubai, will receive paid time off on December 2 and 3, 2026, for the Eid Al Etihad holiday. Gulf News reports that the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation confirmed the dates on November 13 for the country’s 55th anniversary.
Key facts
Occasion: The UAE’s 55th Eid Al Etihad
Private-sector dates: Wednesday, December 2, and Thursday, December 3, 2026
Coverage: Employees at private-sector establishments throughout the UAE
Entitlement: Two paid holiday days
Federal government dates: December 2 to 4, with work resuming on December 7
How can employees arrange five days off?
Private-sector employees with a Saturday and Sunday weekend can create a five-day break by using annual leave for Friday, December 4.
That arrangement would combine the two public holiday dates, one annual leave day and the usual weekend. Employees following this schedule would return on Monday, December 7.
The distinction matters when arranging a visit with friends or relatives working in Dubai: December 4 is not included in the announced private-sector holiday. Confirm their leave plans before organising activities together.
What is the federal government holiday schedule?
Federal government employees have a three-day holiday covering December 2, 3 and 4. Their official working hours resume on Monday, December 7.
This is a separate schedule from the two paid days announced for private-sector staff. Anyone coordinating plans with people in both sectors should use the relevant dates for each group.
What does Eid Al Etihad commemorate?
Eid Al Etihad marks the UAE’s formation on December 2, 1971, when six emirates established the federation. Ras Al Khaimah became part of it in February 1972, bringing the total to seven emirates.
The 2026 celebration marks 55 years since the country was established. For background while planning a visit, explore Guide of Dubai’s guide to Emirati heritage and traditional crafts.
What does this mean for visitors?
Visitors can use the confirmed holiday dates to coordinate sightseeing with relatives or friends who work in the UAE.
For itinerary planning, browse Dubai city tours or review Dubai Frame tickets. If choosing the latter, consult the Dubai Frame Metro access guide when planning your journey.
The holiday report does not provide celebration venues, admission prices, attraction opening hours or transport arrangements. Check those details separately for each activity before booking.
Details can change; check the official announcement before you travel.
Prepared by Yasin Toktaş with AI assistance for drafting, corrections and proofreading.