The US embassy and consulate in the UAE will remain closed for three days in observance of Christmas, with normal services resuming after the holiday period.
UAE: US embassy and consulate to shut for three days during Christmas celebrations
The US diplomatic missions in the UAE have confirmed temporary closures in line with upcoming Christmas celebrations.
Both the US Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the US Consulate General in Dubai will remain closed on Thursday, December 25, in observance of Christmas. In addition, the offices will not operate on Wednesday, December 24, and Friday, December 26, resulting in a three-day suspension of consular and embassy services. Regular operations are scheduled to restart on Monday, December 29.
Separately, Pakistan’s embassy in the UAE has also announced it will be closed on December 25 to mark Christmas as well as Quaid-i-Azam Day.
Quaid-i-Azam Day is a national holiday in Pakistan, commemorated annually on December 25 to honour the birth of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the country’s founder and first Governor-General.
While Christmas is not recognised as an official public holiday in the UAE, several private-sector organisations offer staff time off on Christmas Day and, in some cases, Boxing Day. These breaks are provided through internal company policies rather than government mandates, reflecting evolving workplace practices and an effort to align with international calendars while supporting employee well-being.
Officials advised residents and visitors who may require consular assistance to plan appointments accordingly and check official mission websites or social media channels for any updates during the closure period. Emergency services for US citizens will continue to be available through designated contact numbers, ensuring critical support remains accessible despite the temporary shutdown. Employers granting Christmas leave said such initiatives help boost staff morale and acknowledge the diverse cultural backgrounds of the workforce. As the UAE continues to host a large international community, these flexible workplace practices highlight the country’s inclusive approach while balancing local customs with global observances.
Many residents and expatriates in the UAE rely on consular services for a variety of needs, including visa processing, passport renewals, and emergency assistance. With the US embassy and consulate remaining closed for three days, officials have urged individuals to complete any urgent paperwork or appointments in advance. This temporary pause also allows embassy staff to observe holiday traditions and spend time with their families. While non-urgent services will resume after the closure, public awareness campaigns are being conducted to ensure that citizens and residents are informed well ahead of time to avoid inconvenience during this festive period.
Similarly, Pakistan’s embassy emphasised that while most services will be paused on December 25, essential emergency assistance for Pakistani nationals in the UAE will remain operational. Officials recommended that citizens plan travel, documentation, and other consular matters around the closure dates. The announcement also serves to remind the community of the significance of Quaid-i-Azam Day, celebrating the legacy of Muhammad Ali Jinnah. Embassies said that public cooperation and early planning would ensure that disruptions to administrative and emergency services are minimised during this combined holiday period.
Private-sector companies granting leave on Christmas Day and Boxing Day are part of a broader trend in the UAE, reflecting the growing internationalisation of the workforce. By aligning leave policies with global observances, employers aim to foster a supportive environment that values employee well-being and cultural diversity. Many organisations also use the festive season to encourage team-building activities, year-end reviews, and employee recognition programs. This approach not only boosts morale but also helps integrate multinational staff into UAE workplaces, creating a balance between local customs and international expectations. Employees benefit from additional rest and opportunities to spend time with family and friends during this festive period.
