UAE confirms Eid Al Etihad holidays for private sector employees

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation in the UAE has announced that private sector employees will enjoy a two-day paid holiday for the country's 55th Eid Al Etihad, celebrated on December 2 and 3. The holiday marks the country's founding, which took place on the same date in 1971 when six emirates united to form the federation.

Unlike public sector employees, who will have a three-day holiday from December 2 to 4, private workers will only experience a short break. Public offices will return to regular hours on Monday, December 7, resulting in a five-day break, including the weekend. This year's National Day celebrations are particularly significant as they coincide with the UAE's Year of Family, which highlights the importance of family bonds that have contributed to the nation's development over the past five decades.

The theme emphasizes the UAE as a "family of families," bringing together people from diverse backgrounds through shared values, experiences, and a sense of belonging. Eid Al Etihad is also known as the Festival of the Union, reflecting the country's unification process led by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who became the nation's first president.

National celebrations across the Emirates typically include cultural performances, fireworks, and a major official ceremony attended by the rulers and senior officials. While the holiday dates for both public and private sector employees have historically been the same, this year marks an exception as the holiday dates differ between the two sectors.