Remaining UAE Public Holidays 2026: Timely Plan Your Holidays from June to December 2026

Why Smart Holiday Planning Matters in the UAE

If you live or work in the UAE — whether in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or across the seven emirates — you already know that public holidays here are more than just days off. They're cultural events, travel opportunities, and critical milestones for HR, payroll, and business planning.

From the solemnity of the Hijri New Year (Ra's as-Sanah al-Hijriyyah) to the national pride of Eid Al Etihad on December 2nd and 3rd, the second half of 2026 is packed with meaningful breaks. The good news? With a little strategic leave planning, several of these holidays can be turned into extended long weekends — or even mini vacations — without eating through your entire annual leave balance.

This guide covers every confirmed and expected UAE public holiday from June 1 to December 31, 2026, including exact dates, long weekend opportunities, sector-specific differences between public and private employees, and practical planning tips for residents, expats, and businesses across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the wider GCC.

Note: Islamic holidays follow the Hijri lunar calendar and are subject to official moon sighting confirmation. All dates below are based on the latest official announcements from MOHRE, FAHR, and astronomical projections current as of June 2026.

What Are UAE Public Holidays — and Who Do They Apply To?

UAE public holidays are nationally recognised days off declared by the UAE Cabinet, and administered through two key bodies:

• MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation) — governs the private sector
• FAHR (Federal Authority for Government Human Resources) — governs federal government entities

Under Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 (the UAE Labour Law), all private sector employees are entitled to full pay on official public holidays. If an employee is required to work on a public holiday, the employer must pay the normal basic wage plus a supplement of at least 50% of that wage, or provide a compensatory day off in lieu.

It's worth noting that local governments — such as the Dubai Government Human Resources Department (DGHR) or Abu Dhabi's equivalent — can announce additional Emirate-level holidays that go beyond the federal calendar. Always check both federal and local announcements.

Full List of UAE Public Holidays — June to December 2026

Here is the complete, confirmed and expected holiday schedule for the second half of 2026. Dates for Islamic holidays are subject to official moon sighting confirmation.

Already passed in 2026 (before June): New Year's Day (1 Jan), Eid Al Fitr (20–22 Mar), Arafat Day/Eid Al Adha (26–29 May). Commemoration Day (30 November): Observed with national ceremonies but no separate day off granted — the break is aligned with National Day on December 2–3.

Breaking Down Each Holiday — What You Need to Know

1. Hijri New Year 1448 — Monday, 15 June 2026

What it is: The Islamic New Year, known as Ra's as-Sanah al-Hijriyyah or simply Ras al-Sana, marks the first day of Muharram — the opening month of the Hijri (lunar) calendar. It commemorates the Hijrah, Prophet Muhammad's migration from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, the founding moment of the Islamic calendar.

Official announcement: FAHR and MOHRE jointly confirmed Monday, 15 June 2026, as an official paid holiday for both federal government and private sector employees across the UAE. This is because the astronomical date (1 Muharram 1448) falls on Tuesday, June 16 — and under UAE holiday transfer rules, the day off was moved to Monday to create a longer break.

Long weekend opportunity: With Saturday and Sunday as standard weekend days, employees enjoy a 3-day break (Saturday 13 – Monday 15 June), with work resuming Tuesday, June 16.

Planning tip for residents: This is one of the quieter Islamic holidays in the UAE — hotels and attractions are less crowded than during Eid. It's an excellent window for a short domestic trip to Hatta, the Al Hajar Mountains, or a staycation at one of Dubai's beach resorts. Flights to regional GCC destinations like Muscat, Doha, or Riyadh are typically available at moderate rates this time of year.

HR & payroll note: MOHRE's confirmation means private sector employers cannot treat this as a standard working day. If your business requires operational continuity, you must either pay the holiday supplement or document compensatory time in line with UAE Labour Law.

2. Prophet Muhammad's Birthday (Mawlid Al Nabi) — Monday, 24 August 2026

What it is: Known as Mawlid al-Nabi (Arabic: مولد النبي) or Eid Milad un Nabi, this holiday celebrates the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) on the 12th of Rabi' al-Awwal, the third month of the Hijri calendar.

Official date: The astronomical projection places this on Tuesday, 25 August 2026. However, following UAE Cabinet transfer policy — which allows mid-week Islamic holidays (other than Eid) to be moved to the nearest Monday — the holiday is expected to fall on Monday, 24 August 2026.

⚠️ Confirmation subject to official moon sighting and Cabinet decision closer to the date. Employees should monitor MOHRE and FAHR announcements.

Long weekend opportunity: With the holiday on Monday, residents on a Saturday–Sunday weekend schedule will enjoy a 3-day break (Saturday 22 – Monday 24 August). For those who can arrange leave on Tuesday, August 25, this becomes a 4-day stretch.

Context for expats and businesses: August is typically a slower month for business in the UAE, with many families travelling abroad during the school summer holidays. This holiday conveniently falls just as many residents begin returning from summer breaks. It is also a time of reflection and cultural observance across the wider GCC — events, mosque gatherings, and cultural programs are common in Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi.

Travel insight: Budget airlines like Air Arabia, flydubai, and IndiGo often release promotional fares for August long weekends. Popular short-haul destinations include Tbilisi, Baku, Istanbul, and Colombo. Book early — prices tend to rise sharply in the week before the official announcement.

3. Commemoration Day — Monday, 30 November 2026

What it is: Formerly known as Martyrs' Day, Commemoration Day (Yawm al-Shaheed) is observed annually on 30 November to honour Emirati military personnel, civil servants, and humanitarian workers who sacrificed their lives in service to the nation. It is a day of national remembrance marked by moments of silence, flag-lowering ceremonies, and tributes across all seven emirates.

Is it a paid day off? This is a common source of confusion. As of the updated UAE public holiday framework, Commemoration Day itself does not carry a separate official day off for most employees in 2026. The public holiday break is aligned with the National Day cluster starting December 2nd. However, national ceremonies and school observances do take place, and some government entities may observe partial working days or early closures.

What to expect: UAE flags fly at half-mast, and media coverage across platforms like The National, Gulf News, and Khaleej Times shifts to tribute and remembrance. Many corporates in Dubai's DIFC, DWTC, and Mainland business districts observe the day with official moments of silence.

4. UAE National Day (Eid Al Etihad) — Wednesday 2 & Thursday 3 December 2026

What it is: The UAE's most patriotic holiday, Eid Al Etihad (عيد الاتحاد), marks the formal unification of the seven emirates on 2 December 1971, under the founding vision of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. December 2026 is especially significant — it marks the 55th UAE National Day, themed around unity, progress, and the nation's journey from federation to global leader.

Official dates: Wednesday, 2 December and Thursday, 3 December 2026 — for both public and private sectors.

Long weekend opportunity: National Day falls mid-week in 2026, and immediately precedes Friday and Saturday (the UAE weekend). This creates a potential 4-day break: Wednesday 2 – Saturday 5 December, with work resuming Sunday, 6 December.

For federal government employees, FAHR may announce additional bridging days (such as Monday, 30 November, aligned with Commemoration Day), which could create an even longer stretch. Monitor FAHR announcements from November onwards.

Why this matters for residents: National Day is the UAE's biggest national celebration. Expect:

• Fireworks at the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Creek, and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi
• Air shows, military parades, and cultural programs
• The 55th National Day official ceremony — Al Ain was chosen as the venue for the 2025 ceremony; the 2026 venue will be announced by the UAE Cabinet
• Hotel and travel prices at a peak — properties in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah sell out weeks in advance

Book now. If you're planning a staycation or short trip during National Day, industry sources recommend booking by September 2026 to avoid holiday pricing premiums of 40–80% across UAE hotels.

For businesses: National Day is a prime marketing window. Retailers, F&B brands, hospitality groups, and e-commerce platforms see major uplift. DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre) and DED (Dubai Economy and Tourism) license-holders should ensure compliance with holiday trading hours and staff entitlements under MOHRE rules.

Long Weekend Calendar — June to December 2026 at a Glance

Here's how each remaining 2026 holiday maps to your calendar:

Note: UAE weekend is Friday–Saturday. Some private sector companies operate Sunday–Thursday, so apply the above accordingly.

Why UAE Holiday Planning Matters for Businesses and Employers

Payroll, HR Compliance, and MOHRE Obligations

For business owners, HR managers, and payroll teams in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and across the UAE, public holiday management is a legal obligation — not an option. Under Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, failure to compensate employees properly for working on public holidays can result in penalties from MOHRE.

Key compliance points:

• Advance notice is required if employees are expected to work on public holidays
• Holiday pay must reflect basic wage + 50% supplement, or provide substitute leave
• Islamic holiday dates must be tracked through MOHRE announcements, not assumed in advance
• Businesses using WPS (Wages Protection System) must ensure payroll cycles reflect holiday adjustments accurately

Platforms like Bayzat, Mena360, and ZenHR — widely used by UAE Mainland and Freezone companies — automatically update holiday calendars based on MOHRE circulars. If you're managing payroll manually, bookmark the MOHRE official portal.

Freezone vs. Mainland: Any Differences?

Whether you operate under a Mainland DED licence or a Freezone licence (DMCC, JAFZA, DIFC, RAKEZ, etc.), UAE public holidays apply universally. The UAE Cabinet holiday resolution covers all sectors, all emirates, and all employment types governed by the UAE Labour Law.

However:

• Certain DIFC-regulated entities may follow DIFC Employment Law (DIFC Law No. 2 of 2019), which has its own holiday provisions — though these largely mirror federal minimums
• Free Zone authorities (like DMCC or Dubai South) may issue additional circulars for their specific communities
• Some multinational companies with regional HQs may align holidays with GCC-wide calendars — for example, adjusting for Saudi National Day (September 23) for business continuity across the GCC

Smart Leave Planning — Maximising Your Holidays in the UAE

Here's how to turn the remaining 2026 holidays into longer breaks without burning through your annual leave:

Strategy 1: The June 3-Day Break

• Holiday: Monday, 15 June (Hijri New Year)
• Take one day of annual leave on Tuesday, 17 June
• Result: 4-day break — Saturday 13 to Tuesday 17 June

Strategy 2: The August Long Weekend

• Holiday: Monday, 24 August (Prophet's Birthday)
• Take Tuesday 25 August off as annual leave
• Result: 4-day break — Saturday 22 to Tuesday 25 August

Strategy 3: The National Day Escape

• Holiday: Wednesday 2 – Thursday 3 December
• Take Sunday 29 November and Monday 30 November as annual leave
• Add Commemoration Day (30 November) if your company observes it
• Result: Up to a 7-day break — Sunday 29 November to Saturday 5 December

Pro tip: Notify your HR department or line manager at least 30 days in advance for multi-day leave requests around National Day. The UAE Labour Law (Article 29) grants employees the right to paid annual leave, but the timing is subject to the employer's operational needs.

Travel Planning Around UAE Public Holidays

Best Destinations for Each Break

Hijri New Year (15 June — 3-day weekend)

• Domestic: Hatta Mountain Resort, Jebel Jais (Ras Al Khaimah), Al Ain Zoo
• Regional: Muscat, Salalah (Khareef season begins), Doha
• International: Istanbul, Tbilisi, Baku (short-haul, visa-friendly for UAE residents)

Prophet's Birthday (24 August — 3-day weekend)

• Domestic: Dubai Parks & Resorts, Abu Dhabi Corniche, Sir Bani Yas Island
• Regional: Bahrain, Kuwait (cooler evenings in August)
• International: Colombo, Maldives, Kenya, Georgia

National Day (2–3 December — 4-day weekend)

• In UAE: National Day events in all seven emirates — fireworks, flag processions, and cultural festivals. This is the best time to experience Emirati culture firsthand.
• Short-haul: Maldives, Seychelles, Thailand (peak season begins)
• Long-haul: Europe, UK (Christmas markets), New York

UAE Resident Travel Tips

• Renew your visa or Emirates ID before travelling during holiday periods — GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) and ICP services experience high demand
• RTA (Roads and Transport Authority) typically increases public transport capacity during holidays — the Dubai Metro runs extended hours during Eid and National Day
• Dubai Airports (DXB and DWC) rank among the world's busiest; allow extra time during holiday peaks
• For GCC road trips, ensure your UAE vehicle registration, insurance, and Salik/RTA permits are current

Common Mistakes UAE Residents Make with Public Holidays

1. Assuming Islamic holiday dates in advance: Many residents book flights or hotels weeks before an Islamic holiday is officially confirmed. Moon sighting can shift dates by a day. Always book refundable options or wait for MOHRE/FAHR confirmation.
2. Confusing public sector and private sector holidays: Government employees (federal and emirate-level) and private sector workers sometimes receive different numbers of days off. For example, during Eid Al Adha 2026, federal staff received 5 days while private sector employees received 4.
3. Overlooking Commemoration Day: Many residents expect a day off on November 30, but in 2026 no separate paid holiday is granted — the break aligns with December 2–3 National Day.
4. Not checking emirate-level additions: Dubai's DGHR and Abu Dhabi's government entities can announce additional local holidays. Follow official UAE government social media channels and apps for real-time updates.
5. Forgetting WPS payroll adjustments: HR teams that run payroll cycles around holiday dates often face delayed SIF (Salary Information File) submissions. MOHRE has provisions for this, but proactive planning avoids penalties.

UAE Public Holidays — Expert Insights

Several HR and business consultants operating in Dubai and Abu Dhabi have highlighted the evolving approach to holiday management in the UAE:

"The alignment of public and private sector holidays — especially since the 2022 workweek shift to Monday–Friday — has significantly simplified HR compliance for multinationals operating across Dubai Mainland, DIFC, and ADGM." — Common observation among HR consultants working with DED and ADGM-registered firms

The UAE's holiday system reflects a deliberate balance: honoring Islamic traditions and national identity while maintaining the country's position as a globally competitive, business-friendly environment. The Cabinet's flexibility in transferring mid-week Islamic holidays (excluding Eid) to Mondays demonstrates this balance in action — maximising rest without disrupting commerce.

Tools and Resources for UAE Holiday Tracking

Stay ahead with these trusted resources:

• MOHRE Official Portal — Real-time holiday announcements for the private sector
• FAHR Portal — Federal government holiday circulars
• UAE Government Official Portal — u.ae — Central resource for all official UAE government services, including public holidays
• Gulf News and Khaleej Times — Immediate coverage of moon sighting announcements and holiday confirmations
• RTA Dubai App — Live transport updates during public holidays (extended metro hours, holiday bus routes)
• GDRFA Smart App — For visa and travel documentation needs during holiday travel

Internal Linking Suggestions

Suggested anchor texts and target page types for relevant internal links:

1. "UAE Labour Law annual leave entitlements" → Link to a page covering Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, leave rights, and employee obligations
2. "How to apply for UAE annual leave from your employer" → HR guide page targeting Dubai and UAE employees
3. "Best places to visit in the UAE during long weekends" → Travel/lifestyle guide targeting Dubai near me, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah
4. "MOHRE complaint process for unpaid holiday wages in UAE" → Legal/HR resource for employees in Mainland and Freezone companies
5. "UAE National Day 2026 events in Dubai and Abu Dhabi" → Events and lifestyle guide for December 2026

External Authoritative Sources

1. MOHRE — Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation: mohre.gov.ae — Official source for all private sector holiday announcements
2. UAE Government Official Portal: u.ae — Central hub for UAE laws, regulations, and official holiday schedules
3. Gulf News: gulfnews.com — Trusted UAE media with real-time holiday date confirmations
4. Khaleej Times: khaleejtimes.com — Primary source for FAHR and MOHRE holiday circulars in Dubai

Conclusion: Plan Smart, Rest Well

The second half of 2026 brings three meaningful public holidays to UAE residents — the Hijri New Year in June, the Prophet's Birthday in August, and the milestone 55th UAE National Day in December. Each holiday carries its own cultural significance, and each one presents a real opportunity to recharge, explore, and connect — whether you're a long-term expat, a new arrival, or an Emirati national.

With smart leave planning, you can turn each of these single or double holidays into 3 to 4-day breaks, and potentially stretch National Day into a 7-day escape. The key is planning early — especially for December, when hotels and flights fill up fast.

For businesses and HR teams across Dubai's Mainland, Freezone, and DIFC ecosystems, staying ahead of MOHRE and FAHR announcements isn't just good practice — it's a legal requirement. Use the tools, stay informed, and make 2026's remaining holidays work for you.

FAQ: UAE Public Holidays June–December 2026

Q1: What are the UAE public holidays from June to December 2026?

A: There are three public holidays from June to December 2026 in the UAE: Hijri New Year on Monday 15 June 2026 (1 day), Prophet Muhammad's Birthday on Monday 24 August 2026 (1 day, date subject to moon sighting and Cabinet confirmation), and UAE National Day (Eid Al Etihad) on Wednesday 2 and Thursday 3 December 2026 (2 days). Commemoration Day on 30 November is observed ceremonially but does not carry a separate paid day off.

Q2: Is 15 June 2026 a public holiday in Dubai and the UAE?

A: Yes. Monday, 15 June 2026, is an official paid public holiday for both public and private sector employees across the UAE, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. It was jointly announced by FAHR and MOHRE to mark the Hijri New Year 1448.

Q3: How many public holidays are there in the UAE in 2026 in total?

A: The UAE has 7 public holiday occasions in 2026, amounting to at least 12 official days off for employees in both sectors. These include New Year's Day, Eid Al Fitr, Arafat Day, Eid Al Adha, Hijri New Year, Prophet Muhammad's Birthday, and UAE National Day.

Q4: Do private sector employees in the UAE get the same public holidays as government employees?

A: Generally yes, but there can be differences in the number of days. For example, during Eid Al Adha 2026, federal government employees received 5 days off while private sector employees received 4 days. Both sectors receive the same holiday events, but the exact number of days may differ by Cabinet decision.

Q5: What is Eid Al Etihad and when is it in 2026?

A: Eid Al Etihad (عيد الاتحاد) is the UAE National Day, celebrated on December 2nd every year. It marks the unification of the seven emirates in 1971. In 2026, it falls on Wednesday 2 and Thursday 3 December, with December 2026 marking the historic 55th UAE National Day.

Q6: Can UAE employers ask employees to work on public holidays?

A: Yes, under certain conditions. Under Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 (UAE Labour Law), if an employee is required to work on an official public holiday, the employer must pay the normal basic wage plus at least a 50% supplement, or provide a compensatory day off. This applies across Dubai Mainland, Freezone, and DIFC-registered companies (DIFC entities may fall under DIFC Employment Law).

Q7: What happens if an Islamic holiday falls on a weekend in the UAE?

A: If a public holiday falls on a Friday or Saturday (the UAE weekend), the holiday may be carried over to the following Sunday under UAE Cabinet decision — except for Eid holidays, which cannot be transferred. However, this is not automatic and depends on a specific Cabinet decree for that year.

Q8: Is Commemoration Day (30 November 2026) a paid holiday in the UAE?

A: In 2026, Commemoration Day on 30 November does not carry a separate official paid day off for most employees. The public holiday break for this period is aligned with UAE National Day on December 2–3. National ceremonies, flag-lowering events, and school observances take place across the UAE on November 30.

Q9: How are Islamic holiday dates confirmed in the UAE?

A: Islamic holiday dates in the UAE are determined by official moon sighting committees operating under the authority of the UAE government. MOHRE and FAHR announce confirmed dates typically 1–2 days before the holiday. Astronomical projections provide advance estimates, but the official moon sighting takes precedence. Always verify dates through MOHRE's official portal (mohre.gov.ae) or major UAE news outlets like Gulf News and Khaleej Times.

Q10: Are UAE public holidays the same in all emirates — Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah?

A: Yes, federal public holidays apply across all seven emirates: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Umm Al Quwain. However, individual emirate governments (such as Dubai's DGHR) may occasionally announce emirate-specific additional holidays beyond the federal calendar. It is good practice to monitor both FAHR/MOHRE and your specific emirate's HR authority.