UAE National Day: Four-Day Long Weekend Announced for Private Sector
- Publish date: Monday، 17 November 2025 Reading time: 1 min read
Extended UAE National Day weekend celebrated with festivities marking Eid Al Etihad and unification of seven emirates.
- Related articles
- UAE Private Sector Holiday Announced for Prophet Muhammad's Birthday
- Dubai Confirms Eid Al Etihad Holiday for Public Sector
- Free Parking in This Emirate for Prophet Muhammad's Birthday
The UAE has officially announced a four-day long weekend for private sector employees in celebration of National Day, now recognised as Eid Al Etihad.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation confirmed that Monday, December 1, and Tuesday, December 2, will be paid holidays for private sector workers. Regular working hours will resume on Wednesday, December 3, giving residents an extended break when combined with the preceding weekend.
This update follows a Cabinet resolution that took effect on January 1, 2025, allowing certain public holidays to be moved to the start or end of the week if they fall midweek. Although earlier announcements had listed December 2 and 3 as the official holidays, this year’s schedule was adjusted to create a longer weekend.
Eid Al Etihad: A Nation-Wide Celebration
Eid Al Etihad marks the historic unification of the seven emirates on December 2, 1971. The holiday brings generations together as communities celebrate the UAE’s journey from its resilient past to its promising future.
Across the country, cities are gearing up for major festivities. Abu Dhabi, Dubai and other emirates will host cultural showcases, heritage parades, family-friendly entertainment, and culinary experiences marking the spirit of unity.
In Dubai, residents can look forward to live concerts, including a performance by Emirati superstar Balqees at Festival Bay, alongside comedy shows, theatre productions, sporting events, and spectacular fireworks expected to illuminate iconic locations throughout the long weekend.