The United Arab Emirates has confirmed the first public holiday of 2026, marking New Year’s Day as an official day off for public sector employees. According to a circular issued by the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources, government staff across all seven emirates will also have the option to work remotely on Friday, January 2. This schedule means that the first in-office day for public sector employees will be Monday, January 5.
Private sector employees are awaiting further clarification from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation regarding New Year’s Day arrangements. Meanwhile, Dubai is gearing up for festive celebrations on December 31, with fireworks, concerts, and parties planned across the city. Details on public transport adjustments and road closures are expected to be released in the coming weeks to help residents and visitors plan their celebrations.
The New Year’s Day holiday is one of the few UAE public holidays that can be confirmed well in advance, with other holidays like Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha depending on the Islamic Hijri calendar. Eid Al Fitr will arrive at the end of March, while Eid Al Adha is predicted to provide a six-day long weekend in May 2026, making it the longest holiday of the year.