Dubai announces public holiday for Prophet Muhammed’s birthday
Shift workers and public-facing staff may follow separate schedules
DUBAI – Dubai government employees will get a three-day break later this month after authorities declared Friday, August 28, 2026, an official holiday to mark the birthday of Prophet Muhammed (PBUH).
The Dubai Government Human Resources Department (DGHR) confirmed that the holiday will apply to government departments, authorities and institutions affiliated with the Dubai Government. Official working hours will resume on Monday, August 31.
The Dubai Government Human Resources Department (DGHR) announces that the Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday holiday for Dubai Government departments, authorities, and institutions will be observed on Friday, 28 August 2026, with official working hours resuming on Monday, 31 August… pic.twitter.com/wDCMV1MLZ3
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) August 11, 2026
With Saturday and Sunday forming the regular weekend for most government employees, the announcement effectively gives eligible staff a three-day break. The holiday falls during the final days of the summer period, ahead of the resumption of regular activities at the start of the following week.
Service arrangements
The holiday arrangements include specific provisions for employees whose roles require them to remain on duty.
Staff working on a shift basis, as well as those whose responsibilities involve serving the public or managing public service facilities, will not necessarily follow the standard holiday schedule.
Instead, individual government entities will determine working hours for these employees according to their operational requirements. The arrangements are intended to ensure that public services continue to operate efficiently and without interruption during the holiday.
The decision covers the Dubai Government's departments, authorities and institutions, while the schedules of employees in roles requiring continuous or direct public service will be handled separately by their respective entities.
Official resumption
Government offices covered by the announcement will resume their normal working arrangements on Monday, August 31, following the Friday holiday and the regular Saturday-Sunday weekend.
The DGHR extended its congratulations on the occasion to the UAE leadership, citizens and residents. It also conveyed its wishes for the country’s continued security, stability, prosperity and progress.
The announcement comes as the UAE prepares to mark Prophet Mohammed’s birthday, a religious occasion observed by Muslims around the world.