Starting January 1, 2025, a new Cabinet resolution in the UAE allows specific public holidays to be moved to the beginning or end of the week if they occur on a weekday.
This rule excludes Eid holidays and can only be implemented if the Cabinet issues an official decision. Here’s what the law entails for residents and employers.
Which UAE holidays can be moved if they fall on a weekday?
Under Cabinet Resolution No. 27 of 2024, the following holidays can be shifted to the start or end of the week if they fall on a weekday:
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Gregorian New Year (January 1)
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Hijri New Year (1 Muharram)
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Prophet’s Birthday (12 Rabi’ Al Awwal)
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Arafat Day (9 Dhu al-Hijjah)
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UAE National Day (December 2–3)
How does the holiday transfer rule function?
The law doesn’t automatically move holidays. Instead, the Cabinet must decide each year which holidays, if any, will be shifted to form longer weekends.
Example: Prophet’s Birthday in 2025
The Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday is observed on the 12th of Rabi’ Al Awwal. Depending on the start of the Islamic month, the holiday could fall on Thursday, September 4, or Friday, September 5, in 2025.
Residents will receive a day off as declared by the Cabinet. If the holiday lands on Friday, it could result in a three-day weekend. If on Thursday, the Cabinet might move it to the weekend, but this requires a decision.
Example: National Day in 2025
The UAE National Day, or Eid Al Etihad, marks the union of the Emirates. In 2025, it will be celebrated on Tuesday, December 2, and Wednesday, December 3.
This naturally creates a mid-week two-day break. However, the Cabinet resolution could shift these to extend the weekend, contingent on an official decision.
Which holidays are non-transferable in the UAE?
Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha cannot be moved, even if they coincide with weekends, due to their religious significance.
Can holidays be moved if they clash with another public holiday?
No. The resolution prohibits transferring holidays if they coincide with another public holiday or fall on a weekend.
When did this law become effective?
The resolution was implemented on January 1, 2025, replacing Cabinet Resolution No. 27 of 2019.
How can residents plan long weekends under this rule?
Residents may anticipate extended weekends when holidays like New Year’s, National Day, or the Prophet’s Birthday fall near a Friday or Sunday, subject to the Cabinet’s annual confirmation.
Should employers apply transferable holidays automatically?
No. Employers must await the official holiday schedule each year to confirm any shifts.
What should employees verify with HR regarding this law?
Employees should check with HR or management to confirm if a holiday has officially been moved before making travel or leave plans.
What is Cabinet Resolution No. 27 of 2024?
This federal resolution outlines the official public holidays in the UAE for both public and private sectors, starting January 1, 2025, and details the conditions for transferring certain holidays.
