First UAE Public Holiday of 2026 Confirmed: New Year’s Day on January 1

Thursday, 4 December 2025

Workers across the UAE can look forward to the first public holiday of 2026, with Thursday, January 1 officially declared a day off to celebrate New Year’s Day. After enjoying the final break of 2025 during Eid Al Etihad, residents will receive another welcomed long weekend opportunity as the new year begins.

Key Highlights:

• New Year’s Day 2026 is an official public holiday across the UAE.
• The break falls on Thursday, January 1, giving residents a refreshed start to the year.
• The holiday applies to both public and private sector employees, ensuring nationwide time off.
• The announcement follows a successful long weekend for Eid Al Etihad 2025, marking the last holiday of the year.
• Public holiday rules allow the UAE Cabinet to extend the break by moving holidays to the start or end of the week if needed.
• The early confirmation offers residents and workers ample time to plan travel and celebrations for the new year.