As 2025 comes closer to its final month, residents across the UAE are preparing for the last official break of the year, the National Day holiday. Recognised as a time of unity and national pride, this celebration holds deep significance for citizens and residents alike.
The UAE government, through the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), has officially confirmed the holiday dates for the private sector, offering a much-anticipated long weekend.
This year’s National Day promises not just celebrations but also rest, travel, and time to reconnect with loved ones. With the official confirmation now in place, both private and public sector employees can plan for a meaningful pause from work.
Here’s everything you need to know about the final UAE National Day holiday for the private sector in 2025, including dates, law changes, expectations, and how it impacts your work schedule.
What is the UAE National Day and Why is It Celebrated?
UAE National Day is celebrated each year on December 2 and marks the unification of the seven emirates that came together in 1971 to form the United Arab Emirates.
This significant event is also known as Eid Al Etihad, meaning “Festival of the Union,” and it reflects a pivotal moment in the country’s history when the emirates joined under one flag. The day is an official public holiday across all sectors, and it symbolizes pride, progress, and unity.
Celebrations occur in every emirate, including large fireworks displays, military parades, cultural performances, and community events. Schools and workplaces often participate in the festivities by decorating with national colours and hosting heritage-based programs.
It’s a time when the country reflects on its rapid development, leadership achievements, and continued growth. The spirit of the day is shared by Emiratis and expatriates, making it an inclusive celebration for all residents. For many, it’s more than just a holiday, it’s a reminder of the UAE’s journey and collective ambition.
When is the UAE National Day Holiday for the Private Sector in 2025?
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has officially declared Monday, December 1, and Tuesday, December 2, 2025, as public holidays for private sector employees. This aligns the private sector schedule with the public sector, creating a unified celebration across the country.
The announcement came as part of the federal calendar for public holidays in the UAE, offering clarity and certainty for workers and businesses alike.
Key details include:
- December 1 (Monday) and December 2 (Tuesday) are public holidays.
- The holidays apply to both public and private sectors.
- They mark the 54th National Day of the UAE.
- The announcement was confirmed well in advance for proper planning.
- Employees are entitled to full paid leave as per the UAE Labour Law.
These dates ensure that private sector employees get time to engage in national festivities or simply enjoy a well-deserved break. It’s a thoughtful move by the government to foster unity and equal opportunity for celebration across all sectors.
How Long is the UAE National Day Weekend in 2025?
With National Day falling on a Monday and Tuesday this year, private sector employees in the UAE will benefit from a generous four-day weekend.
Since the UAE observes Saturday and Sunday as official weekends, combining these days with the holiday creates a smooth and extended break from November 30 to December 2. This arrangement gives workers the chance to relax, travel, or enjoy events planned nationwide.
This holiday schedule reflects a practical approach, allowing families to plan trips or simply stay home to participate in local festivities without worrying about a midweek return to work. Many residents look forward to using this time for leisure, personal time, or connecting with loved ones.
Here’s the complete breakdown of the 2025 National Day weekend:
| Date | Day | Holiday Status |
| November 29 | Saturday | Weekend |
| November 30 | Sunday | Weekend |
| December 1 | Monday | National Day Holiday |
| December 2 | Tuesday | National Day Holiday |
This structure provides a balanced work-life rhythm and encourages more active participation in the National Day celebrations across the Emirates.
What Law Allows UAE Holidays to Shift for Longer Weekends?
In early 2025, the UAE introduced a new public holiday policy that enables non-Eid holidays to be shifted to either the beginning or end of the week.
This strategic change aims to reduce mid-week interruptions and provide extended weekends for employees across both the public and private sectors. The change promotes productivity, improves morale, and allows for better work-life integration.
Key features of the holiday law:
- Non-Eid public holidays can now be rescheduled.
- Eid holidays remain fixed and are not adjustable.
- Longer weekends help improve workforce satisfaction.
- The law was applied to National Day 2025, offering a four-day weekend.
- The policy supports economic activity by encouraging tourism and leisure.
By adapting holidays to the start of the week, the UAE ensures residents benefit from more effective rest periods while reducing disruption to workflow and business operations. The law has been widely welcomed by employers and employees alike.
Were People Expecting a Longer 5-day Weekend?
Yes, there was widespread speculation among UAE residents and in the media that the UAE might grant an extra-long five-day weekend in 2025.
Based on previous traditions, where December 2 and 3 were recognised as National Day holidays, many believed that the government would add December 1 (Monday) as an additional day off.
If that had happened, the public would have enjoyed a break from Saturday through Wednesday. However, the final announcement only included December 1 and 2 as official holidays.
Factors that led to public speculation included:
- Tradition of Dec 2 and 3 being National Day holidays in past years.
- The new law enabling holiday shifting sparked hope.
- News outlets hinted at a potential 5-day break.
- Residents planned travel in anticipation of the extra day off.
- The UAE’s pattern of promoting longer rest periods led to high expectations.
Despite the hopes for an extended break, the confirmed four-day weekend still offers a satisfying and convenient schedule for most employees and families to enjoy.
What Does This Mean for You as a Private Sector Employee?
If you’re working in the UAE’s private sector, this announcement directly benefits you by providing a clearly defined and government-approved four-day break.
The confirmed holiday schedule means you are officially entitled to paid leave on December 1 and 2, aligning you with public sector workers. It also gives you more flexibility to plan your week, travel, or participate in national events without uncertainty.
As a private sector employee, this means:
- You receive paid leave on both official days.
- You enjoy a four-day break starting from the weekend.
- Your employer must respect the announcement unless you work in critical sectors.
- You are part of a unified national celebration across all industries.
- You can confidently plan your schedule and make the most of the holiday.
This is a welcome update for employees who often rely on early announcements to plan for family events or personal time. It reflects the UAE’s balanced approach to workforce management and national pride.
Conclusion
The 2025 UAE National Day holiday for the private sector is not just a symbolic observance of unity but also a meaningful opportunity for rest and celebration. With official holidays confirmed for December 1 and 2, workers can look forward to a well-timed four-day weekend that encourages both relaxation and national pride.
The introduction of the new law enabling flexible holiday scheduling played a pivotal role in shaping this year’s structure, ensuring employees benefit from more convenient breaks.
While the rumoured five-day weekend didn’t happen, the final arrangement still offers substantial time for personal and family engagement.
For private sector employees, this is a chance to recharge, reflect, and be part of one of the most important occasions in the UAE calendar. So, whether you’re travelling or staying local, make the most of this special time.
FAQs
Will the UAE National Day holiday apply to all private sector companies?
Yes, the holiday applies to all private sector companies registered in the UAE as per MOHRE regulations.
Is the UAE National Day considered a paid holiday for private employees?
Yes, it is a fully paid public holiday for all eligible private sector employees.
Can my employer ask me to work on the National Day holiday?
Employers can request work only if necessary and must offer compensatory leave or pay.
What is the significance of Eid Al Etihad?
Eid Al Etihad signifies the union of the emirates in 1971 and is celebrated as National Day.
Will there be fireworks and events during the National Day?
Yes, fireworks, concerts, and cultural events are planned across the Emirates.
Is December 3 a holiday for the private sector in 2025?
No, only December 1 and 2 are official holidays. December 3 is a working day.
When was the holiday law for shifting public holidays introduced?
The law was introduced in early 2025 to enhance holiday flexibility and improve rest periods.
