UAE workers to get a three-day break as Islamic New Year holiday is confirmed.
Dubai: The next public holiday in the UAE is the Islamic New Year, giving employees in both the public and private sectors an extended three-day weekend.
Islamic New Year: The next UAE public holiday
The UAE has declared Monday, June 15, a public holiday for both public and private sector employees to mark the Islamic New Year, resulting in a three-day break for workers across the country.
With the holiday falling immediately after the regular weekend on Saturday and Sunday, employees will enjoy a continuous break before returning to work on Tuesday, June 16.
What is the Islamic New Year?
Also known as the Hijri New Year, it marks the Hijrah—the migration of Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE—considered the starting point of the Islamic lunar calendar. Although it is observed more quietly than Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha, it holds deep religious significance across the Muslim world and is recognised as a public holiday in the UAE.
More holidays to look forward to
The remainder of 2026 still includes several public holidays, offering workers additional breaks throughout the year:
Prophet’s Birthday is expected to fall on Tuesday, August 25, 2026 (12th of Rabi Al Awwal, subject to moon sighting). Its mid-week timing means the UAE’s transfer rule could potentially extend it into a longer break, depending on official confirmation.
UAE National Day (Eid Al Etihad) will be observed on December 2–3, 2026 (Wednesday and Thursday). With the Friday–Saturday weekend immediately following, employees could benefit from a four-day break.
How to make the most of UAE public holidays
Planning annual leave strategically around public holidays can significantly increase total time off during the year. Mid-week holidays are particularly valuable, as they may be combined with weekends to create extended breaks with minimal leave usage.
Understanding UAE public holiday rules
A few key provisions apply under the UAE’s public holiday framework:
- Under Article 2 of the Cabinet resolution, most official holidays (excluding Eid holidays) may be moved to the beginning or end of the week by Cabinet decision.
- Under Article 3, if a holiday falls on a weekend or overlaps with another public holiday, it is not carried forward.
- Under Article 4, local governments may approve additional holidays for their departments on special occasions.
