Federal government employees will enjoy a five-day weekend from December 2 to 6, resuming official duties on Monday, December 7, 2026.
ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates — The United Arab Emirates government has announced a three-day paid public holiday for federal employees to mark the nation’s 55th Eid Al Etihad, creating a five-day break when combined with the regular weekend.
According to the UAE Government Media Office, official holidays will run from Wednesday, December 2, through Friday, December 4, 2026. Following the standard Saturday-Sunday weekend, federal government offices will resume normal working hours on Monday, December 7.
Observed annually on December 2, Eid Al Etihad commemorates the 1971 unification of six emirates to establish the United Arab Emirates, with Ras Al Khaimah joining the federation in 1972. The national occasion honours the country’s unity, achievements, and the legacy of its founding fathers, led by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
This year’s milestone coincides with the UAE’s Year of Family. Authorities recently unveiled the official visual identity for the 55th Eid Al Etihad, launching the countdown to the national celebrations.
Centred on the concept of the UAE as a “family of families,” the 2026 theme highlights the generations and diverse communities that have shaped the nation over the past five and a half decades. Families and residents across the emirates are encouraged to organize local gatherings and participate in the nationwide festivities.
