Starting January 1, 2025, a new Cabinet resolution permits certain UAE public holidays to be shifted to the beginning or end of the week if they land on a weekday.
This rule excludes Eid holidays and requires a specific decision from the Cabinet to be enacted. Here’s what the law entails for residents and employers.
What UAE holidays can be moved when they fall on a weekday?
As per Cabinet Resolution No. 27 of 2024, these holidays may be moved to the start or end of the week:
-
Gregorian New Year (January 1)
-
Hijri New Year (1 Muharram)
-
Prophet’s Birthday (12 Rabi’ Al Awwal)
-
Arafat Day (9 Dhu al-Hijjah)
-
UAE National Day (December 2–3)
How does the holiday transfer rule function?
Holidays are not automatically moved. Each year, the Cabinet must decide which holidays, if any, will be adjusted to extend weekends.
Example: Prophet’s Birthday in 2025
Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday is on the 12th of Rabi’ Al Awwal. If the Islamic month starts on August 24, the holiday is on Thursday, September 4. If it starts on August 25, it falls on Friday, September 5.
Residents receive a day off as declared by the Cabinet. If it is Friday, September 5, many will enjoy a three-day weekend. If it falls on Thursday, September 4, 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 Emirates’ unification. In 2025, the 54th National Day is on Tuesday, December 2, and Wednesday, December 3.
This creates a mid-week two-day break. However, these days could be shifted for a longer weekend, pending a Cabinet decision.
Which holidays are non-transferable in the UAE?
Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha cannot be moved, regardless of when they fall, due to their ties to Islamic rituals.
Can holidays be moved if they coincide with another holiday?
No. A holiday cannot be transferred if it overlaps with another public holiday or falls on the weekend.
When did this law start?
The resolution started on January 1, 2025, replacing Cabinet Resolution No. 27 of 2019.
How can residents plan long weekends?
Residents might enjoy extended weekends when holidays like New Year’s, National Day, or the Prophet’s Birthday are near Friday or Sunday. Official confirmation depends on the Cabinet’s annual announcement.
Should employers automatically implement transferable holidays?
No. Employers must wait for the official holiday calendar to know if a holiday will be moved.
What should employees verify with HR regarding this law?
Employees should check with HR if a holiday has been officially moved before making travel or leave plans.
What is Cabinet Resolution No. 27 of 2024?
This federal resolution defines the official public holidays in the UAE for public and private sectors from January 1, 2025, and the conditions for transferring certain holidays.
