Organisational Culture
UAE sets January 1 as paid holiday, January 2 as remote-work day
These holidays fall just before the weekend of January 3 and 4, 2026, creating a likely long weekend for employees to enjoy time off with family and friends.
The UAE federal authorities have confirmed the first public holiday of 2026, announcing that Thursday, January 1, will be an official paid New Year holiday for all federal government employees.
The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) said, “The New Year’s holiday for 2026 for the federal government will be on Thursday, January 1, 2026, and Friday, January 2, 2026, will be a ‘remote work’ day for federal government employees, except for those whose job nature requires otherwise.
On this occasion, the Authority extends its warmest congratulations and best wishes to the leadership, government, and people of the United Arab Emirates, as well as all residents, praying that God Almighty returns this occasion upon everyone with health and wellbeing.”
The move supports work-life balance during the festive season, the government has also designated Friday, January 2, 2026, as a remote-work day for public-sector staff. Employees whose roles require physical presence, however, are expected to report to duty as usual.
The announcement marks the start of a celebratory season across the country, as residents, visitors, and expatriates prepare for some of the UAE’s most anticipated New Year events.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has also announced January 1 as an official paid holiday for all private-sector employees.
It stated: “Thursday, 1 January 2026, will be an official paid holiday for all private-sector employees in the United Arab Emirates on the occasion of the New Year. We wish you a year filled with happiness!”
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These holidays fall just before the weekend of January 3 and 4, 2026, creating a likely long weekend for employees to enjoy time off with family and friends.
In addition, the UAE’s 2026 holiday calendar includes Eid Al Fitr, Eid Al Adha, the Islamic New Year, and Eid Al Etihad, offering workers several extended breaks throughout the year.
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