The UAE proves its ability to host the New Year in style. From record-breaking fireworks to spectacular drone shows to citywide celebrations, the country unabashedly embraces January 1st with energy and enthusiasm. Nevertheless, for many of the residents, the true highlight is not just the countdown but the UAE New Year public holiday, which grants a well-deserved relief after a long year.
The holiday of New Year is the perfect time to slow down and spend some time with family and friends while welcoming a new chapter filled with opportunities. For parents, it is a wonderful way to make memories with their children, who are already spending winter holidays.
January 1: UAE New Year Public Holiday
On Thursday, 1st January 2026, there will be a paid public holiday for the whole of the UAE for both the public and private sector employees. The holiday is one that is applicable to the whole of the nation and is the first official day of rest of the new year.
Despite the celebration, 31 December 2025 is a regular working day. Under the UAE labour law, there is no official half-day, however, some employers can choose to provide early departures at their own discretion.
Residents attending New Year’s Eve events should expect some temporary road closures and traffic diversions, especially near the major fireworks sites, such as the New Year’s Eve firework celebrations in Burj Khalifa and other major points to see New Year’s Eve fireworks and drone shows across the city. Planning ahead and making use of public transport is a smart move.
Who Gets Extra Time Off?
While the New Year holiday in the UAE in 2026 itself remains fixed, the way in which residents celebrate it might change:
- 1 January is officially a paid holiday, and the working week resumes on Friday, 2 January, unless an employer has a different policy.
- 2 January will be a remote work day for most staff, with exemptions for essential and shift-based workers.
- Dubai government employees and eligible staff will also work remotely on 2 January.
- Sharjah government employees will enjoy an extended break, with employees returning to work on Monday, 5 January.
With New Year’s Day happening on a Thursday and remote working opportunities for many groups of government workers, residents actively plan extended weekends, staycations, and travelling. It is no coincidence that searches for UAE public holidays and New Year leave rules are increasing.
The New Year public holiday is an ideal starting point for 2026, motivated, refreshed and ready for all that is to come.
Other UAE Public Holidays 2026
According to the approved calendar of the UAE Cabinet, a number of UAE public holidays in 2026 are held annually in the country. These consist of New Year’s Day, followed by some of the important Islamic occasions, such as Eid Al-Fitr, Arafah Day and Eid Al-Adha.
The list of holidays also includes Hijri New Year and the Birthday of the Prophet, which follow the Islamic calendar. The year culminates in UAE National Day, a major national celebration across all the emirates.
Also read: Ramadan 2026 UAE Timings: Expected Suhoor and Iftar Schedule, Fasting Hours & Work Hours Update
