World

UAE Declares Two-Day Paid Holiday for Private‑Sector Workers on Union Day 2026

By Ravi Hari

The United Arab Emirates announced that private‑sector employees will receive a two‑day paid public holiday on Wednesday, 2 December 2026, and Thursday, 3 December 2026, to celebrate Eid Al Etihad 2026, the country’s 55th Union Day. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) issued the announcement on the social media platform X, wishing the UAE, its leaders and its people health, pride and prosperity. The holiday applies to all private‑sector establishments across the seven emirates, giving employees a paid break to participate in the Union Day celebrations. In addition, federal government employees will receive a three‑day public holiday from 2 December to 4 December 2026, with official working hours resuming on Monday, 7 December. Eid Al Etihad, also known as Union Day, is celebrated annually on 2 December to commemorate the formation of the UAE on 2 December 1971. The 55th anniversary will feature fireworks, military parades, cultural performances, flag displays, air shows, exhibitions, family events and special offers across the country.