Other BriefingsUAE Announces Private Sector Holiday for 54th Eid Al Etihad on December 1-2, 2025
To mark the 54th Eid Al Etihad, the UAE has declared December 1–2, 2025 as paid holidays for all private-sector employees. The unified schedule ensures a four-day weekend for most workers and reflects the country’s commitment to harmonising public- and private-sector holiday policies.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has officially announced that December 1 and 2, 2025 (Monday and Tuesday), will be paid holidays for all private-sector employees in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), in celebration of the 54th Eid Al Etihad.
The announcement was issued on November 17, 2025 and reflects the Cabinet’s approved national holiday schedule. The circular follows the Cabinet’s decision on national holiday schedules for both government and private sectors.
Official announcement
In its statement, MoHRE affirmed that the dates of December 1-2 are designated “an official paid holiday for all employees in the private sector across the UAE” to mark Eid Al Etihad.
The announcement came as part of the broader holiday calendar, in parallel with the public sector announcement by the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR).
Alignment with the UAE’s national holiday policy
This two-day holiday reflects the UAE’s ongoing goal of synchronising public- and private-sector holiday schedules. Sources confirm that both sectors will observe the same holiday period, enhancing clarity for employers and employees alike.
Notably, since the preceding weekend (Saturday and Sunday) is part of the normal break, many workers are expected to enjoy a four-day weekend between Saturday (November 29) through Tuesday (December 2).
Significance of Eid Al Etihad
Eid Al Etihad, literally “Festival of the Union”, commemorates December 2, 1971, when the seven emirates came together to form the UAE.
The 2025 observance marks the 54th anniversary of this historic union. The government emphasises that the holiday is a time for national reflection, pride, and reaffirming the country’s values of unity and progress.
MoHRE’s official message
In its circular, MoHRE extended congratulations to the UAE’s leadership, its citizens, and all residents of the country, underscoring the inclusive spirit of the occasion.
The Ministry highlighted the significance of the national celebration and encouraged the private sector community to align with the granted holiday.
Implications for private sector employers and employees
Private sector employers are required to abide by the paid-holiday directive, ensuring that all eligible employees receive full pay for the two-day break.
Companies are advised to communicate the holiday schedule and any related internal procedures (such as deadlines, shift swaps, or overtime policies) well in advance to avoid disruptions.
Businesses with operations in essential services should plan staffing early, while the official holiday applies, critical functions may still need to run, in which case employers must provide the appropriate compensation, alternative leave days, or other benefits in line with UAE labour regulations.
Employees can expect to benefit from the two-day break in alignment with the public sector, supporting workforce morale, rest, and family time. To make the most of the holiday, employees may wish to plan travel or personal commitments ahead of time, confirm any on-call or shift requirements with their employers, and review internal policies on working during public holidays, overtime, or compensatory leave.
Conclusion
With the holiday officially set for December 1-2, 2025, both employees and employers in the UAE can now prepare for the 54th Eid Al Etihad celebrations. This synchronized holiday schedule fosters continuity across sectors and enhances the potential for a cohesive, extended national celebration reflecting the country’s shared heritage and future ambitions.
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