The holiday period for the United Arab Emirates National Day 2026 has been announced for Wednesday, December 2, 2026, to celebrate the United Arab Emirates (UAE) National Day on 2 December 1976 (55 years ago). December 2 and 3 are not public holidays in the UAE; however, they are considered holidays on the UAE public holiday calendar, called Eid Al Etihad (National Day).
Whether you’re looking for the UAE National Day 2026 holiday dates, public and private sector leave details, or ways to enjoy a long weekend, this guide covers the essential information.
UAE National Day 2026 Dates
The government has officially notified about public holidays based on its published public holiday calendar and it shows that both December 2 and 3 are Public Holidays, with December 3 being a UAE National Day. In 2026 these dates will be Wednesday and Thursday.
| Holiday detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Occasion | UAE National Day / Eid Al Etihad |
| National Day date | Wednesday, December 2, 2026 |
| Second listed holiday | Thursday, December 3, 2026 |
| Anniversary | 55th anniversary of the UAE’s formation |
| Published holiday duration | Two days |
| Applicable sectors | Public and private sectors under the UAE public holiday framework |
| Long-weekend arrangements | Depend on the observed dates and regular work schedule |
| Celebration locations | Across all seven emirates |
UAE National Day 2026 Holiday for Public and Private Sector Employees
UAE National Day is a governmentally recognised public holiday in the UAE, for public and private organisations throughout the UAE. Employers need to read the posted announcement and work contracts to decide on the dates to observe.
Public sector employees
For federal government staff, follow the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) and their respective government agencies’ announcements.
These notifications provide information on the dates of holidays and resumption of the usual working hours of the government.
Local government officials will also refer to the official announcements sent by the corresponding ‘emirate’ or employer.
Private sector employees
Employees working in the private sector should check the official announcement in the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE).
The UAE labour law, Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, provides public holidays, which are fully paid holidays for workers. Any work requirement that requires an employee to perform a work task on a public holiday means they are entitled to either an alternative day off or be paid a higher rate that is a minimum of 50% of the basic wage for that day.
How Many Days Off Can You Get for UAE National Day 2026?
The number of consecutive days away from work will depend upon your normal rest days you receive per week, the final holiday week observed and whether your employer has given you permission to take annual leave.
Your normal weekend is Saturday and Sunday; if so, you may be able to take annual leave around the holidays, resulting in a longer weekend on November 2nd and April 6th.
Option 1: Take the public holidays only
Assuming these observed holidays stay the same as previously, with Wednesday, December 2, and Thursday, December 3, off work.
This option is suitable for employees who want a short break without using annual leave.
Option 2: Get a five-day break with one annual leave day
If your employer grants Friday, 4 December, as a holiday, the break can be from Wednesday, 2 December, to Sunday, 6 December.
This would give rise to five days off work, including one public holiday and one regular holiday.
Option 3: Get a six-day break with two annual leave days
You can take annual leave on Monday, Nov 30 and Tuesday, Dec 1.
If the holiday dates listed in the newspaper are on target, then you may be on vacation from Saturday, November 28 through Thursday, December 3.
This way, you could take six continuous days off with two of your annual leave.
Option 4: Get a nine-day break with three annual leave days
If you have a longer holiday, you could apply for Annual Leave for November 30, December 1, and 4.
If the public holidays observed are still December 2 and 3, your holiday may in fact be this week from Saturday 28th December until Sunday 29th December.
That would provide nine consecutive days away from work using three annual leave days.
| Annual leave used | Potential consecutive days off | Example date range |
|---|---|---|
| 0 days | 2 days | December 2–3 |
| 1 day | 5 days | December 2–6 |
| 2 days | 6 days | November 28–December 3 |
| 3 days | 9 days | November 28–December 6 |
What Is Eid Al Etihad?
The name of the National Day celebration in the UAE is Eid Al Etihad. The name signifies the coming together of the seven Emirates and the values upon which the Federation is based.
It is generally observed on December 2nd and also December 3 is a public holiday published in the UAE calendar.
How Is UAE National Day Celebrated?
National Day celebrations take place throughout the UAE, with activities varying by emirate, venue, and year. Common celebrations include flag displays, cultural performances, family activities, and special public events.
1. UAE flag displays and decorations
The UAE flag is one of the symbols which are more famous than any other to the National Day in U.A.E. It is seen in the red, green, white, black colors on various buildings, shopping centers, public spaces, cars and houses.
Many businesses and communities also celebrate with events and decoration of their premises in accordance with the national spirit.
2. Fireworks and evening entertainment
Fireworks are a popular feature of National Day celebrations at selected locations.
Firework shows or other special evening entertainment in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and other emirates. The timing, venues, criteria, and event availability are subject to change from year to year, however.
3. Traditional Emirati performances
Cultural activities can include traditional music, folk performances, heritage exhibitions, handicrafts, and activities which introduce visitors to Emirati’s culture and traditions.
These are an excellent chance to immerse yourself in the UAE’s cultural history and the ambiance of celebration.
4. Concerts and family activities
Concerts, entertainment, National Day events and family fun can take place in shopping centres, waterfront and entertainment spaces, and public event spaces.
Some events are free of charge, some events require ticket booking and there may be events requiring tickets (which may be required beforehand). Check the organiser’s information prior to visiting.
5. Family gatherings and traditional food
Some families celebrate National Day by getting together, creating special homemade meals, visiting family members and participating in communal events.
Such events demonstrate the value of family, hospitality, and tradition in Emirati culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is UAE National Day 2026?
The UAE National Day is celebrated on Wednesday, December 2, 2026. The second holiday date, as published in the public holiday calendar is also on Thursday, 3 December.
Is December 2, 2026, a public holiday in the UAE?
The UAE’s main Muslim festival is celebrated on December 2, which is also hotspots one among the public holiday calendar.
Is December 3, 2026, also a UAE National Day holiday?
Yes. The second date referred in the published public holiday calendar in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for the celebration of National Day is 3rd December.
How many days is the UAE National Day holiday in 2026?
In the published calendar there will be 2 days, namely, December 2 and 3.
Read More: Eid al-Fitr 2027: Date, Moon Sighting & Eid Holidays
Final Thoughts
The UAE National Day 2026 is on Wednesday, December 2, which is celebrated 55 years after the United Arab Emirates were established. Thursday, December 3 is also a National Day Public Holiday.
For residents, the occasion offers an opportunity to celebrate the country’s history, enjoy cultural activities, spend time with family, and plan a December break.
