UAE workers will enjoy a day off on Monday, June 15. The announcement covers both public and private‑sector employees across the Emirates.
TL;DR: A public holiday on June 15 marks the start of the Islamic New Year. Employees will get a long weekend.
When the holiday falls
The holiday lands on Monday, June 15, 2026, the first day of Muharram. Because the date falls on a Monday, workers will enjoy a three‑day break.
This timing turns the usual weekend into a three‑day stretch for many staff members.
Who gets the day off
The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation said they will grant leave to all public‑ and private‑sector staff. Both agencies released a joint statement earlier today confirming the decision.
The announcement applies uniformly across the Emirates, ensuring no employee is left out.
How the agencies decided
The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources oversees staffing policies for federal entities, while the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation regulates labour matters for the wider economy. Their coordinated notice reflects a shared commitment to honouring the Islamic calendar.
By issuing the holiday together, the two bodies signal that the start of the Islamic year is a recognised occasion for all workers, not just those in a single sector.
What the Islamic New Year marks
The Islamic, or Hijri, New Year begins Muharram, the first of the twelve months in the Islamic calendar. The day is generally regarded as a time for reflection rather than large celebrations, unlike Eid al‑Fitr or Eid al‑Adha.
Religious observances are typically modest, focusing on personal contemplation.
Why the day of reflection matters
For many Emiratis, the start of Muharram offers a quiet moment to set intentions for the year ahead. The holiday gives workers a chance to pause, consider personal goals, and reconnect with family traditions.
This reflective tone aligns with the cultural emphasis on inner renewal that accompanies the Hijri calendar.
What to expect for the long weekend
Saturday and Sunday already form the weekend, so the added Monday off creates a three‑day stretch for many workers. Employees can use the time for family gatherings, cultural outings, or short trips within the Emirates.
Popular ways to spend the break include:
- Visiting cultural sites in Abu Dhabi
- Enjoying a family meal at home
- Taking a short getaway to a nearby resort
Planning the long weekend
With a three‑day window, many people start planning outings early in the week. Booking tickets to museums, arranging picnics in parks, or scheduling a beach day are common ways to make the most of the time.
Because the holiday is official, most businesses and schools remain closed, giving families flexibility to organise activities without work commitments.
What to watch next
Authorities may issue further holiday notices later in the year. Keeping an eye on official channels will help residents stay ahead of any additional long‑weekend opportunities.
Frequently asked questions
When is the Islamic New Year holiday in UAE?
The Islamic New Year holiday in the UAE is on Monday, June 15, 2026.
Is Islamic New Year a public holiday in UAE?
Yes, it is a public holiday for both public and private‑sector employees, with a day off on June 15.
What is the Islamic New Year holiday?
It marks the start of the Hijri calendar, the first day of Muharram, and is observed as a day of reflection.
How many days off do UAE workers get for Islamic New Year?
Because the holiday falls on a Monday, workers enjoy a three‑day weekend (Saturday‑Sunday‑Monday).
Who declared Islamic New Year holiday in UAE?
The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation jointly announced the holiday.
