UAE National Day Holidays 2026: How to Get a 5-Day Break Using Annual Leave
UAE National Day Holidays 2026: Residents Could Get a 5-Day Break
Dubai, UAE: Residents in the United Arab Emirates may have an opportunity to enjoy a five-day break during the country's 55th National Day celebrations in December 2026 by using one day of annual leave.
Eid Al Etihad, also known as UAE National Day, is usually celebrated on December 2 and 3. In 2026, these dates fall on Wednesday and Thursday. However, the official public holiday dates have not yet been announced.
How to Get a Five-Day Holiday
Employees who normally have Saturday and Sunday off could extend their holiday by taking Friday, December 4, as annual leave.
The proposed schedule would be:
Wednesday, December 2: Expected National Day holiday
Thursday, December 3: Expected National Day holiday
Friday, December 4: Annual leave
Saturday, December 5: Weekend
Sunday, December 6: Weekend
This arrangement could provide five consecutive days off, subject to the official holiday announcement and individual workplace schedules.
Could the UAE Announce an Additional Holiday?
Under UAE regulations introduced in 2025, certain public holidays can be transferred to the beginning or end of a week to create a longer break. However, whether the National Day holidays will be adjusted in 2026 remains unconfirmed.
If Friday is officially declared an additional holiday, eligible employees could receive a longer break without using annual leave for that day.
Four-Day Workweek Employees May Benefit
Some employees who work a four-day week, including certain public-sector employees in Sharjah, may already benefit from an extended break depending on their regular working schedule and the official holiday announcement.
Employees should confirm their company's holiday policy before making travel or leave arrangements.
Travel Demand Expected to Increase
The extended break could encourage residents to plan domestic and international trips. Travel agents expect demand for flights and accommodation to rise as the holiday approaches.
Residents planning to travel are advised to book early where possible, as ticket prices and hotel rates may increase closer to the holiday period.
55th Eid Al Etihad Celebrations
The UAE's National Day celebrations have been known as Eid Al Etihad, meaning āCelebration of the Union,ā since 2024. The 2026 occasion marks the country's 55th celebration and coincides with the UAE's Year of Family.
Residents should wait for the official announcement before treating December 2 and 3, or any additional date, as confirmed public holidays.
Note: The holiday dates and five-day break described above are based on the reported expected schedule and are subject to official confirmation.
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