Islamic New Year holiday announced for UAE private sector

Authorities confirm Sunday, July 7, will be a paid public holiday for employees, with the public sector break expected to be held on the same day

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. The Islamic New Year will be marked with a public holiday for the private sector

Private sector workers will be granted a public holiday on Sunday to mark the Islamic New Year, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation has said.

The Islamic, or Hijri New Year, heralds the beginning of Muharram, the first of 12 months on the Islamic calendar.

It is expected to be observed on Sunday, but this is due to be confirmed by the country's moon-sighting committee.

This is because, as with other Islamic holidays, the first day of Muharram changes yearly, based on the lunar cycle.

On Monday, the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources said the paid holiday for the public sector would fall on the first day of Muharram.

Public and private sector employees are typically afforded the same number of holidays each year.

In contrast to Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha, no religious observances are prescribed for the Islamic New Year. It is generally regarded as a day of reflection rather than celebration.

Remaining holidays for 2024

Prophet Mohammed's birthday

The holiday is typically a time for quiet reflection rather than celebration, with festivities scaled back.

The UAE Cabinet previously confirmed this year's public holiday for the occasion would be observed on September 29.

Last year, President Sheikh Mohamed paid homage to an “inspirational legacy of kindness” on Prophet Mohammed's birthday.

The UAE leader said the Prophet's “timeless values” continue to be a guiding light for society.

Commemoration Day

Commemoration Day, also known as Martyrs Day, pays homage to Emirati soldiers who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

It is typically marked with a minute's silence in honour of those who died in service.

Last year, Commemoration Day was observed on November 30, with a public holiday on December 1.

The late President Sheikh Khalifa introduced Commemoration Day in 2015.

It originally took place on November 30 to commemorate the death of Salem Khamis, who died on the same date in 1971 fighting against Iranian forces on the island of Greater Tunb. He is thought to have been the first Emirati to be killed in military service since the formation of the UAE that year.

National Day

The UAE united each December to celebrate the rise of a nation that is called home by more than 200 nationalities.

A spectacular live show is typically the centrepiece of colourful festivities held in all seven emirates.

Citizens often display their patriotic pride by flying the UAE Flag from their cars, which are also emblazoned with the nation's colours and decorated with images of Emirati leaders.

In 2022, a stunning 51st National Day show staged at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre celebrated the best of the nation and showcased its grand ambitions for the next 50 years.

An extravaganza of dancers, live music and performances – as well as the arrival of an Etihad Rail passenger train – delivered a taste of Emirati heritage and a snapshot of how the UAE will be shaped in the coming years.

The UAE Cabinet has announced this year's National Day public holiday will be held on December 2 and December 3.