UAE Announces Islamic New Year Holiday: Millions of Employees to Enjoy a Long Weekend

The United Arab Emirates has officially announced a nationwide public holiday to mark the beginning of the Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year) 1448 AH. The announcement applies to both government employees and private-sector workers across all seven emirates, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Umm Al Quwain. The decision means that millions of residents will enjoy an extended weekend, providing an opportunity for family gatherings, short vacations, religious reflection, and leisure activities.  

The holiday has been scheduled for Monday, June 15, 2026, according to announcements issued by the UAE’s Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE). Normal work will resume on Tuesday, June 16. Since the holiday falls on a Monday, most employees who have Saturday and Sunday off will receive a three-day weekend.  

What Is the Islamic New Year?

The Islamic New Year, also known as the Hijri New Year, marks the beginning of a new year in the Islamic lunar calendar. Unlike the Gregorian calendar used internationally, the Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles and consists of twelve lunar months.

The new year begins with the month of Muharram, one of Islam’s four sacred months. Muharram holds significant spiritual importance for Muslims around the world and is often regarded as a time for reflection, prayer, and renewal. The Islamic calendar begins from the historic migration (Hijrah) of Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, which is considered a turning point in Islamic history.  

Unlike Eid Al Fitr or Eid Al Adha, the Islamic New Year is generally observed in a quieter and more reflective manner. Large public celebrations are less common, and many people use the day to spend time with family, attend religious gatherings, or reflect on personal goals for the coming year.  

Impact on Businesses and Workers

The holiday announcement affects both public and private sectors equally. In previous decades, holiday schedules sometimes differed between government and private employees. However, UAE authorities have increasingly aligned holiday entitlements to ensure consistency across sectors.

For businesses, the announcement provides clarity for workforce planning and operations. Companies can now adjust staffing schedules, coordinate project deadlines, and plan around the holiday period. Employees, meanwhile, gain the opportunity to rest and spend quality time with family after a busy first half of the year.  

Human resource professionals across the UAE note that public holidays contribute positively to employee morale and work-life balance. Long weekends are particularly valued in fast-paced cities such as Dubai, where many professionals work demanding schedules throughout the year.  

Travel and Tourism Expected to Benefit

The long weekend is expected to boost domestic tourism and regional travel. Hotels, resorts, and airlines typically see increased demand whenever a public holiday creates an extended break.

Popular destinations within the UAE, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah, are expected to attract residents looking for short staycations. Luxury beach resorts, desert retreats, mountain destinations, and family entertainment venues often launch special promotions during holiday periods.

Travel agencies have also reported increased interest in short international trips to nearby destinations such as Oman, Saudi Arabia, Georgia, Azerbaijan, and the Maldives. The three-day break provides enough time for many residents to enjoy a quick getaway without taking additional annual leave.  

Dubai Prepares for Increased Activity

Dubai, as the UAE’s tourism and business hub, is expected to witness a surge in hotel bookings, shopping activity, and entertainment attendance during the holiday period.

Major attractions such as:

• Burj Khalifa
• Dubai Mall
• Dubai Marina
• Palm Jumeirah

are expected to attract both residents and tourists taking advantage of the long weekend.

Restaurants, retail outlets, entertainment venues, and tourism operators frequently introduce holiday promotions to capitalize on increased consumer spending during public holidays.

Significance for UAE Society

The announcement reflects the UAE’s commitment to recognizing important Islamic occasions while promoting social cohesion and cultural values. Public holidays linked to religious events allow residents from different backgrounds to learn more about Islamic traditions and participate in community activities.

For Emirati families, the Hijri New Year often serves as a reminder of the historical and spiritual foundations of Islamic civilization. It is viewed as an opportunity to start the new year with positive intentions, personal growth, and renewed focus on family and community.  

Looking Ahead

As June 15 approaches, residents across the UAE are preparing for a well-deserved break. Whether people choose to travel, spend time with family, relax at home, or engage in religious reflection, the Islamic New Year holiday is expected to bring renewed energy and optimism for the months ahead.

The announcement has been welcomed by employees, businesses, and tourism operators alike, reinforcing the UAE’s reputation as a country that values both economic productivity and quality of life. With a three-day weekend now confirmed, many residents are already finalizing travel plans and staycation bookings to make the most of the occasion.