The UAE National Day holiday is one of the most anticipated breaks in the year. With a little planning, residents can turn it into a long, relaxing nine-day weekend.
Understanding the UAE National Day Holiday
The UAE National Day marks the union of the emirates and the formation of the United Arab Emirates. In 2025, the official holiday falls on Monday, December 1, and Tuesday, December 2. The celebrations include flag hoisting, fireworks, and events across all emirates.
The UAE Cabinet often shifts holidays to the start or end of the week, helping employees maximize their time off. With the holiday moved to Monday, December 1, residents automatically get a four-day break when combined with the weekend of November 29–30.
How to Extend Your Holiday
By taking annual leave strategically, residents can enjoy even more time off. Here’s how to extend the UAE National Day holiday into a nine-day weekend:
- Sunday, November 30 – Commemoration Day (public holiday)
- Monday, December 1 & Tuesday, December 2 – UAE National Day holiday
- Wednesday, December 3 to Friday, December 5 – Use three annual leave days
- Saturday, December 6 & Sunday, December 7 – Regular weekend
This simple plan gives you nine consecutive days off, perfect for travel, family time, or relaxation.
Benefits of Planning Ahead
- Maximize Vacation Time – Combining public holidays with annual leave lets you enjoy longer breaks.
- Avoid Work Stress – Planning in advance reduces last-minute requests and ensures coverage at work.
- Explore the UAE – Use the extended break to visit popular attractions or neighboring emirates.
- Recharge and Relax – A long holiday helps you return to work refreshed and more productive.
Tips for Making the Most of the Long Weekend
- Book Travel Early – Flights and hotels fill up quickly during public holidays.
- Plan Activities in Advance – Reserve popular events, desert tours, or cultural experiences early.
- Coordinate With Your Team – Ensure smooth workflow by sharing leave plans in advance.
- Stay Flexible – If travel is not possible, explore staycations or local attractions.
Remember the Regulations
The UAE National Day holiday applies to both private and public sector employees. Federal authorities and ministries observe official holidays, while companies may offer additional days. Always check with your HR department or employer before finalizing leave.
Final Thoughts
With careful planning, the UAE National Day can become more than just a two-day break. Combining weekends, public holidays, and annual leave creates a nine-day holiday to relax, travel, or spend quality time with loved ones. This simple strategy ensures you get the most out of your well-earned break.
