Monday, June 15, 2026 will be a public holiday across the UAE. The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation confirmed the date for the Hijri New Year 1448.
A three-day weekend for most
Because the holiday falls on a Monday, most employees who enjoy a Saturday‑Sunday weekend will get a three‑day break. The announcement aligns with the UAE Cabinet’s approved list of official holidays for 2026, which sets the calendar for federal entities and private companies. The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources oversees staffing and leave policies for federal bodies, while the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation manages labour standards for the private sector. Their joint notice ensures a uniform observance across the country.
Extended break in Sharjah
For residents of Sharjah, the holiday adds a fourth day to an already longer weekend. Government employees and school students in the emirate follow a four‑day workweek that runs Friday, Saturday and Sunday off. Adding Monday creates a four‑day stretch of rest and family time. This extra day is especially welcomed after the recent Eid Al Adha break, which gave government staff a nine‑day cumulative holiday and private‑sector workers a six‑day pause.
Back to work on Tuesday
Normal working hours resume on Tuesday, June 16. Businesses, schools and public services will reopen, and the labour market will return to its regular rhythm. Employees can use the intervening period to finalize travel plans, book staycations, or simply recharge before the workweek restarts.
Marking the Islamic New Year
The Hijri New Year marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar. It falls on the first day of Muharram, the opening month of the Hijri calendar, and is determined by official moon‑sighting observations. Observing the new year is a cultural touchstone for many residents, offering a moment of reflection and communal celebration.
Why the holiday matters
Beyond the day off, the coordinated holiday underscores the UAE’s approach to work‑life balance. By aligning federal and private sector calendars, the authorities give employees predictable time off, which helps families plan gatherings and tourism operators anticipate visitor flows. Looking ahead, residents can stay tuned for future announcements from the UAE Cabinet, which will continue to publish the official holiday schedule for the year.
Frequently asked questions
When is the Hijri New Year 2026 in UAE?The Hijri New Year 1448 in the UAE is on Monday, June 15, 2026, in line with the UAE Cabinet's approved list of official holidays.
Is June 15 a public holiday in UAE 2026?Yes, June 15, 2026, is an official public holiday in the UAE for the Hijri New Year 1448, observed by both federal and private sector employees.
Do private sector employees get the Hijri New Year off?Yes, private sector employees in the UAE will have June 15, 2026, as a holiday for the Hijri New Year, per the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
When does work resume after the Hijri New Year holiday?Normal working hours resume on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, after the Hijri New Year holiday on Monday, June 15.
Source:khaleejtimes.com
