• Dubai, United Arab Emirates - Reporter: N/A. Standalone. A lifeguard wears a protective face mask to protect him from Covid-19/Coronavirus. Thursday, June 25th, 2020. Dubai. Chris Whiteoak / The National
    Dubai, United Arab Emirates - Reporter: N/A. Standalone. A lifeguard wears a protective face mask to protect him from Covid-19/Coronavirus. Thursday, June 25th, 2020. Dubai. Chris Whiteoak / The National
  • Lifeguards were on duty to ensure residents enjoyed the public holiday safely at Kite Beach. Antonie Robertson/The National
    Lifeguards were on duty to ensure residents enjoyed the public holiday safely at Kite Beach. Antonie Robertson/The National
  • Residents enjoy the public holiday on the birthday of Prophet Mohammad on Kite Surf Beach. Antonie Robertson/The National
    Residents enjoy the public holiday on the birthday of Prophet Mohammad on Kite Surf Beach. Antonie Robertson/The National
  • Sun-seekers got on their bikes to get in the holiday mood at a Dubai Fitness Challenge spin class at Kite Beach. Antonie Robertson/The National
    Sun-seekers got on their bikes to get in the holiday mood at a Dubai Fitness Challenge spin class at Kite Beach. Antonie Robertson/The National
  • Stand up paddling was a popular pursuit on a fun-filled holiday break at Kite Beach. Antonie Robertson/The National
    Stand up paddling was a popular pursuit on a fun-filled holiday break at Kite Beach. Antonie Robertson/The National
  • Youngsters were in playful mood at Kite Beach as the working week was delayed for a day. Antonie Robertson/The National
    Youngsters were in playful mood at Kite Beach as the working week was delayed for a day. Antonie Robertson/The National
  • There was picture perfect weather to savour on the public holiday. Antonie Robertson/The National
    There was picture perfect weather to savour on the public holiday. Antonie Robertson/The National
  • Beach-goers take in some shade on a sunny Sunday in Dubai. Antonie Robertson/The National
    Beach-goers take in some shade on a sunny Sunday in Dubai. Antonie Robertson/The National
  • Crowds flocked to Kite Beach to bask in the sunshine on Sunday. Antonie Robertson/The National
    Crowds flocked to Kite Beach to bask in the sunshine on Sunday. Antonie Robertson/The National
  • A beach-goer takes in the serene views during a visit to Kite Beach. Antonie Robertson/The National
    A beach-goer takes in the serene views during a visit to Kite Beach. Antonie Robertson/The National

UAE residents enjoy public holiday at Dubai's Kite Beach - in pictures


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There was sun, sand, sea and plenty of glee as the UAE went on a winter holiday on Sunday.

Workers across the emirates swapped their suits for sandals to spend a day at the beach rather than the office as the nation celebrated the Prophet Mohammed's birthday.

Dubai's Kite Beach was a popular destination for those in search of some fun in the sun.

Young and old alike lazed on loungers, took a dip in the waters and played games on a restful start to the week.

For those who spent the day hard at work, there is at least the consolation of another upcoming public holiday to look forward to.

UAE residents have been given a four-day weekend in celebration of the country's National Day at the start of next month.

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Read more:

Inside the UAE's astronomical centre which helps determines Islamic public holidays

UAE public holidays 2018 announced by Abu Dhabi Government

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The UAE cabinet announced residents will be given December 2 and 3 as a public holiday for government and private sectors.

Work will resume on Tuesday, December 4.

It will be the last public holiday of 2018.

After the National Day weekend, January 1, 2019 will be the next public holiday.

Keep the sun cream and shades on stand-by.