UAE public holiday and private sector employees are currently enjoying an extended weekend on the occasion of Prophet Mohammed’s (PBUH) birthday. As employees get ready to resume the new workweek on Monday, October 2, this weekend may just have been the last long one for 2023.
The next holiday break in the UAE is for National Day, which is on December 2nd and 3rd. These dates happen to fall on a Saturday and Sunday, which are already part of the regular weekend for most people.
On December 1st, there’s UAE Commemoration Day (formerly known as Martyrs’ Day), but in 2023, it falls on a Friday. Even though it’s not officially listed as a holiday in 2023, in the past, the UAE has recognized this day and given employees time off.
The exact number of holidays for the year will be confirmed by the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, so people will have to wait for their official announcements before making any plans.
During National Day, the UAE comes alive with fantastic fireworks, exciting celebrations, and lots of events, making it a great way to end the year with memorable moments.
For those looking ahead to next year, there’s a chance of an extended break for Eid Al Fitr in the first half of 2024. Ramadan is expected to start in March 2024, with Eid Al Fitr likely falling on April 10th. The exact dates will depend on the sighting of the crescent Moon, which determines the Islamic Hijri calendar. Unlike the Gregorian calendar, Islamic months can be either 29 or 30 days, depending on when the Moon is seen.