The UAE Cabinet granted equal leaves to the public and private sectors. This decision aims to achieve a balance between the two sectors in the number of official holidays they are entitled to.

Here is a list of public holidays for the year 2023 applicable to both public and private sectors.

• Gregorian New Year: 1 January
• Eid Al Fitr: From 29 Ramadan to 3 Shawwal* (4 days)
• Arafah day and Eid Al Adha (Feast of Sacrifice): From 9 to 12 Dhu al Hijjah* (4 days)
• Hijri New Year (Islamic New Year) 
• Prophet Mohammed's birthday: 29 September 2023
• National Day: 2 and 3 December (2 days).

Public holidays in 2024

Following is the list of public holidays for the year 2024 applicable to both public and private sectors.

• New Year Day: 1 January
• Eid Al Fitr: From 29 Ramadan to 3 Shawwal 1445 AH (4 days)
• Arafah day and Eid Al Adha (Feast of Sacrifice): From 9 to 12 Dhu al Hijjah 1445 AH (4 days)
• Hijri New Year (Islamic New Year): 1 Muharram 1446 AH
• Prophet Mohammed's birthday: 12 Rabi’ Awwal 1446 AH
• National Day: 2 and 3 December 2024 (2 days).

*Note: Islamic holidays are determined according to moon sighting.