The United Arab Emirates has announced that public sector workers will enjoy a four-day holiday in celebration of Eid Al Etihad, providing an extended break for government employees across the nation.
UAE Declares 4-Day Eid Al Etihad Holiday for Government Employees
The UAE government has confirmed a four-day holiday for public sector staff to mark the year’s final official celebration, Eid Al Etihad, coinciding with National Day festivities.
Paid leave has been scheduled for Monday, December 1, and Tuesday, December 2, for government employees, according to an announcement made on Monday. Ministries and federal offices will return to normal operations on Wednesday, December 3. When combined with the weekend of Saturday and Sunday, residents will enjoy an extended four-day break.
Starting from January 1, 2025, a new Cabinet resolution in the UAE introduced flexibility in the scheduling of certain public holidays. According to this regulation, if a public holiday falls on a weekday, it can be shifted to either the beginning or the end of the week, ensuring that employees and residents can enjoy a more convenient and continuous break. This adjustment aims to provide better work-life balance and allow families and communities to make the most of national celebrations.
Previously, the government had announced that Eid Al Etihad would be observed with paid holidays on Tuesday, December 2, and Wednesday, December 3, for public sector employees. However, under the provisions of the new Cabinet decision, this year the holiday schedule has been slightly altered. Instead of midweek, the holidays have been moved forward to Monday, December 1, and Tuesday, December 2. This adjustment means that public sector workers will now have a long weekend when the two official holidays are combined with the preceding weekend, giving them four consecutive days off. The move reflects the UAE government’s ongoing efforts to provide residents and employees with more practical and enjoyable holiday arrangements while maintaining efficient operations across ministries and federal entities.
It is important to note that the Cabinet resolution allowing the adjustment of public holidays does not extend to Eid celebrations. These religious holidays continue to follow the traditional dates and are not subject to rescheduling under the current guidelines. Moreover, the provision to shift other public holidays to the start or end of the week can only be implemented if the Cabinet formally issues a specific decision authorizing such changes. This means that even though the mechanism exists for more flexible holiday planning, it requires explicit approval from the government before it can take effect in any given year.
In addition to this, the UAE has introduced a unified holiday system that applies consistently to both public and private sector employees. The goal of this policy is to ensure fairness and equality in the distribution of annual holidays, so that workers across different sectors enjoy the same number of breaks throughout the year. By standardizing the holiday schedule, the government aims to create consistency for businesses and employees alike, while also promoting work-life balance and family time. This approach guarantees that no group is disadvantaged and that all residents and workers can plan their time off in a predictable and equitable manner.
Eid Al Etihad serves as a significant occasion that unites families and communities across all generations, fostering a sense of togetherness and shared identity throughout the UAE. During this celebration, people come together to reflect on the nation’s remarkable journey, honouring the resilience and determination of past generations who laid the foundation for the country’s growth. At the same time, the festivities highlight the dynamic and thriving present, showcasing the achievements and progress of the UAE in various fields, from economic development to cultural enrichment. The occasion also inspires citizens and residents alike to look forward with optimism, envisioning a promising and prosperous future where unity, innovation, and collaboration continue to drive the nation forward.
As the official commemoration of the UAE’s National Day, Eid Al Etihad carries profound historical significance. It marks December 2, 1971, the day when the seven emirates came together in a historic union to form the United Arab Emirates. This unification symbolizes not only political and administrative cohesion but also the shared values, identity, and aspirations of the people. The celebration, therefore, is more than a holiday; it is a moment of national pride, reflection, and inspiration, reminding everyone of the UAE’s journey from its resilient beginnings to its current status as a thriving, forward-looking nation.
During the Eid Al Etihad celebrations, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and the other emirates come alive with an unparalleled festive spirit, offering a wide array of events and activities designed to engage residents and visitors of all ages. The cities transform into hubs of entertainment, culture, and social connection, providing opportunities for families, friends, and communities to come together in celebration. Across the UAE, people can enjoy carefully curated cultural showcases that highlight the nation’s rich heritage and history, giving everyone a chance to experience traditional music, dance, and arts that reflect the country’s diverse roots and long-standing traditions. Heritage parades march through the streets in vibrant displays of pride, featuring traditional costumes, folklore, and performances that pay tribute to the UAE’s journey from its founding days to its modern achievements.
Beyond cultural and historical experiences, the celebrations extend to family-oriented entertainment that caters to younger audiences while still captivating adults. Theme parks, city squares, and public spaces host interactive activities, live performances, and creative workshops that allow families to spend meaningful time together in a lively, festive environment. Additionally, culinary experiences form a key part of the holiday festivities, with restaurants, food festivals, and pop-up markets offering a wide range of local and international delicacies. Residents and tourists alike can sample traditional Emirati dishes alongside contemporary global flavors, providing a gastronomic journey that complements the celebratory atmosphere.
The Eid Al Etihad weekend also introduces exciting new experiences designed to refresh and reinvent the country’s most popular destinations. From innovative entertainment installations to immersive art exhibitions and large-scale light shows, the cities present fresh ways for residents to explore familiar landmarks while enjoying the festive mood. Iconic locations, waterfronts, and public spaces are enhanced with decorative lighting, interactive displays, and themed events that create memorable photo opportunities and immersive experiences for everyone. Visitors can look forward to discovering previously unseen attractions, creating moments that are both enjoyable and unforgettable.
Moreover, the celebrations provide an opportunity for communities to strengthen social bonds and foster a sense of belonging. The weekend’s activities encourage engagement between different generations, with grandparents, parents, and children all participating in shared experiences that celebrate the nation’s unity and cultural richness. By bringing together people from all walks of life, Eid Al Etihad reinforces the spirit of togetherness and collective pride, highlighting the UAE’s commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing a modern and inclusive identity.
Overall, from traditional cultural showcases and heritage parades to family entertainment, culinary adventures, and innovative new attractions, the Eid Al Etihad weekend transforms Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and other emirates into vibrant centers of celebration. The combination of tradition, modernity, and creativity ensures that everyone can enjoy the festivities, creating lasting memories and fostering a sense of joy and unity across the nation. Whether exploring beloved landmarks, sampling diverse cuisines, or participating in cultural experiences, residents and visitors alike are invited to embrace the holiday spirit and celebrate the achievements and unity of the UAE.
