UAE Announces New Year 2026 Holiday for Private Sector Employees
Ashwini Gambo
The UAE has officially announced a New Year 2026 holiday for private sector employees, confirming Thursday, January 1, 2026, as a paid public holiday across the country.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) said the decision aligns with the UAE Cabinet’s approved list of public holidays applicable to both public and private sectors. As New Year’s Day falls on a Thursday, private sector employees are expected to resume work on Friday, January 2, 2026.
The announcement provides early clarity for businesses and employees, allowing organisations to plan operations and staffing schedules well in advance of the new year.
Meanwhile, the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources has confirmed that New Year’s Day 2026 will also be a holiday for the federal government sector. In addition, Friday, January 2, 2026, will be observed as a remote-working day for federal government employees, except for roles that require on-site presence.
The coordinated approach reflects the UAE’s continued efforts to support work-life balance while ensuring operational continuity across both government and private sector entities.
