Residents and citizens across the United Arab Emirates recently observed the last public holiday of the year, celebrating Eid Al Etihad 2025 with an extended weekend.

Following this final break of the year, those working in both the public and private sectors will not have to wait long until their next day off. The upcoming holiday-New Year’s Day-is officially recognized nationwide and is just a few weeks away.

UAE New Year’s Day Holiday in 2026

The Cabinet Resolution No. 27 of 2024 on public holidays outlines all designated days off for employees across the country. This legislation confirms that January 1st, which marks the start of the Gregorian New Year, is an official public holiday for both government and private sector workers throughout the UAE.

In 2026, New Year’s Day will fall on a Thursday. According to existing regulations, authorities have the option to shift certain holidays to coincide with weekends. This policy allows for longer breaks by moving specific public holidays to either the start or end of a week when they align with weekends.