UAE New Year Public Holiday 2026 Announced
The UAE New Year Public Holiday 2026 has been officially announced, bringing positive news for government and private sector employees across the country. The Federal Authority confirmed that Thursday, January 1, 2026, will be observed as a public holiday to mark the New Year, allowing employees to celebrate the occasion with family and friends.
This decision reflects the UAE’s commitment to maintaining a healthy work-life balance while celebrating global events. The UAE New Year Public Holiday 2026 applies nationwide and sets the tone for a festive start to the year, supported by large-scale celebrations planned across all emirates.
- Public holiday on January 1, 2026
- Applicable to government and private employees
- Official announcement by the Federal Authority
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January 2 Remote Work Day for Federal Employees
In addition to the public holiday, Friday, January 2, 2026, has been declared a remote work day for federal employees. This policy allows eligible employees to work from home, extending the New Year break while maintaining official operations where possible.
However, the authorities clarified that employees whose duties require physical presence will continue to attend the office. This flexible approach under the UAE New Year Public Holiday 2026 ensures continuity of essential services while offering convenience to most staff.
- Remote work applies to federal employees
- Office attendance required for essential roles
- Policy supports productivity and flexibility
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Employees Covered Under the UAE New Year Public Holiday 2026
The UAE New Year Public Holiday 2026 covers a wide range of workers, including both public and private sector employees. All employees will receive a holiday on January 1, while only federal employees are eligible for remote work on January 2, subject to job requirements. This clear distinction helps organizations plan their schedules efficiently. It also ensures fairness and transparency in how the UAE New Year Public Holiday 2026 is implemented across different sectors.
- Government employees
- Private sector employees
- Federal employees eligible for remote work
Summary of Official Holiday Schedule
To provide clarity, the official New Year schedule announced by the Federal Authority is summarized below. This table helps employees and employers quickly understand the holiday and work arrangements.
| Date | Day | Official Status |
|---|---|---|
| January 1, 2026 | Thursday | Public Holiday |
| January 2, 2026 | Friday | Remote Work (Federal Employees) |
This structured schedule under the UAE New Year Public Holiday 2026 allows individuals and businesses to plan travel, celebrations, and work commitments efficiently.
- Clear holiday timeline
- Easy planning for employees
- Official confirmation ensures accuracy
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New Year Celebrations Across the United Arab Emirates
Preparations for New Year celebrations are underway across the UAE, with authorities organizing large-scale events to welcome 2026. The UAE New Year Public Holiday 2026 coincides with nationwide festivities that highlight the country’s vibrant cultural and entertainment scene.
- Nationwide festive preparations
- Fireworks and drone shows
- Family-friendly public events
From fireworks to drone shows, the celebrations aim to attract residents and tourists alike. These events reinforce the UAE’s reputation as a global destination for New Year celebration.
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Ras Al Khaimah Fireworks Display 2026
Ras Al Khaimah will host a stunning 15-minute fireworks display along a 6-kilometer-long beach. This large-scale event is expected to be one of the highlights of the UAE New Year Public Holiday 2026, drawing visitors from across the country.
- 15-minute fireworks duration
- 6-kilometer beachfront display
- Major attraction for visitors
Dubai New Year Events and Entertainment
Dubai will once again be a focal point of New Year celebrations during the UAE New Year Public Holiday 2026. The city will host fireworks, drone shows, concerts, and beach parties at iconic locations. Popular venues such as Global Village, Atlantis the Palm, and Bluewaters Island will feature special events, offering entertainment options for families, tourists, and party-goers.
- Fireworks and drone shows
- Concerts and beach parties
- Events at iconic Dubai locations
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Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed Festival Celebrations
Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Festival will host an extraordinary New Year celebration featuring a 62-minute fireworks display. This extended show sets a new benchmark for festive events during the UAE New Year Public Holiday 2026.
- 62-minute fireworks display
- World’s largest drone show
- Part of Sheikh Zayed Festival
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Major New Year Events Overview
The following table highlights key New Year events planned across the UAE during the UAE New Year Public Holiday 2026.
| Emirate | Key Event | Special Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Ras Al Khaimah | Beach Fireworks | 6-km fireworks line |
| Dubai | Multiple Venues | Fireworks, concerts |
| Abu Dhabi | Sheikh Zayed Festival | 62-minute fireworks |
This overview helps visitors choose destinations based on their preferences and event highlights.
- Easy comparison of events
- Useful for travel planning
- Covers major emirates
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Conclusion
The UAE New Year Public Holiday 2026 offers a well-balanced combination of rest, flexibility, and celebration. With January 1 declared a public holiday and January 2 designated as a remote work day for federal employees, the government has ensured both enjoyment and operational continuity.
FAQs
What is the UAE New Year Public Holiday 2026?
It is an official public holiday on January 1, 2026, announced for government and private employees across the UAE.
Is January 2, 2026, a holiday in the UAE?
January 2 is not a public holiday, but federal employees will work remotely unless their job requires office attendance.
Who announced the UAE New Year Public Holiday 2026?
The Federal Authority of the United Arab Emirates officially announced the holiday and remote work policy.
Where will major New Year celebrations take place in the UAE?
Major celebrations will be held in Ras Al Khaimah, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi with fireworks and drone shows.
What makes Abu Dhabi’s New Year celebration special in 2026?
The Sheikh Zayed Festival will feature a 62-minute fireworks display and the world’s largest drone performance.
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