UAE announces Eid Al Etihad 2025 holidays for public sector employees
Long weekend confirmed for ministries and government departments
ABU DHABI – The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has officially confirmed the Eid Al Etihad 2025 holiday for all public sector employees, marking one of the most anticipated breaks of the year.
The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources has declared that Monday and Tuesday, 1-2 December 2025, will be paid holidays for ministries and federal entities. With the weekend falling directly before the holiday, government employees will enjoy a four-day break, returning to work on Wednesday, 3rd December.
The announcement comes as the nation prepares to celebrate the 54th UAE National Day, an occasion that highlights the country’s remarkable story of unity since its formation on 2 December 1971. The authority extended its congratulations to the UAE leadership, citizens and residents, noting the significance of the date as a moment to reflect on national achievements and the values that have guided the country’s development.
Eid Al Etihad holiday
FAHR confirmed that the decision applies to all ministries and federal entities across the country. The two-day holiday ensures that employees will have a full long weekend once combined with the usual Saturday-Sunday break. Official working hours will resume on Wednesday, 3rd December, concluding the final public holiday period of the year.
According to Cabinet Resolution No. (27) of 2024, the UAE Cabinet may transfer certain public holidays to create extended weekends. While Eid holidays cannot be moved, non-Eid dates such as those related to National Day can be shifted following an official Cabinet decision. This year’s adjustment ensures an uninterrupted four-day break for federal employees.
The announcement follows the UAE’s unified holiday policy, which aims to synchronise public and private sector holidays to ensure parity in the number of days off throughout the year. Although the federal holiday dates are now confirmed, a separate announcement for the private sector is expected shortly.
National Day celebrations
In the lead-up to the holiday, all emirates have unveiled elaborate plans to mark the 54th Eid Al Etihad. Sharjah has revealed one of the country’s largest celebration schedules, spanning from 19th November to 2nd December. The programme features cultural displays, community events and artistic showcases held across parks, heritage districts and popular public venues, drawing families and visitors from across the region.
Cities across the UAE will stage fireworks throughout the week, lighting up the skies between 27th November and 3rd December. The displays accompany parades, concerts and performances that highlight the country’s cultural identity and historical journey. The events underscore the spirit of unity that has defined the UAE for over five decades.
Residents can expect a series of activities designed to highlight the country's achievements and diverse community. Cultural organisations and youth groups are set to take part in the celebrations, offering performances and exhibitions that showcase Emirati heritage. National Day decorations and themed installations will appear across malls, public squares and waterfront destinations, creating a festive atmosphere.
The celebrations also offer a chance for families to explore the country’s heritage sites and landmarks, many of which host special events to commemorate the milestone. In recent years, community participation has expanded significantly, with people of all ages engaging in concerts, storytelling programmes and traditional performances.