UAE announces New Year holiday, remote work on Jan 2 for public sector

Federal and private sector employees across the UAE will receive a holiday on New Year’s Day, January 1, after the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation confirmed paid leave for private sector workers. The announcement follows an earlier decision granting public sector employees the same day off to mark the beginning of 2026.

Authorities have also set Friday, January 2, as a remote-work day for federal government staff, excluding employees whose responsibilities require on-site attendance. The arrangement aligns with the unified national calendar, under which public and private sector workers typically receive an equal number of official holidays each year.

The upcoming break is expected to draw large crowds to New Year’s Eve celebrations planned across the country. Concerts, fireworks and public events will take place in major cities, with the Burj Khalifa fireworks in Dubai set to be a key attraction as thousands gather to welcome 2026.

In a separate update, the UAE confirmed that Friday prayers will begin at 12.45 p.m. nationwide starting January 2, shifting from the previous 1.15 p.m. timing. The revised schedule will come into effect at the start of 2026.