UAE National Day holiday for private sector announced

The UAE private sector will observe paid holidays for National Day (Eid Al Etihad) on December 1 and 2 (Monday and Tuesday), the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation announced on Monday.

The announcement comes just hours after the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources announced identical holidays for the public sector.

This means that both public and private sector employees will enjoy a four-day holiday, if you include the Saturday-Sunday weekend.

The authorities extended their congratulations to the UAE leadership, citizens and residents on the occasion, emphasising the significance of Union Day as a moment to honour the nation’s founders and reflect on the country’s achievements.

Each year on December 2, the UAE marks its founding with Eid Al Etihad, a celebration that honours the unity of the seven emirates and the pride of everyone who calls the country home. But what does Eid Al Etihad actually mean and why is it so significant?

The term “Eid Al Etihad” roughly translates to “Festival of the Union” in Arabic. The name highlights Etihad meaning union - which lies at the heart of the UAE’s national identity. It symbolises the country’s enduring values of heritage, strength, and pride.

According to the official Eid Al Etihad website, the celebration is a reminder that “our strength lies in the bonds we build hand in hand, and in the individuals and communities across the nation who, united, carry our story forward.”

Eid Al Etihad is officially celebrated on December 2, marking the historic moment in 1971 when the seven emirates united to form the United Arab Emirates.