Two upcoming holidays may turn ordinary weekends into mini‑vacations. The dates fall on Tuesday, August 25, 2026 for Prophet Mohammed's birthday and on Wednesday, December 2, and Thursday, December 3 for National Day. Under Cabinet Resolution No. 27 of 2024, the government can shift eligible holidays to the start or end of the work week, creating longer stretches of rest.
Potential three‑day weekend in August
Prophet Mohammed's birthday is slated for Tuesday, August 25, 2026, according to the current Hijri calendar. If authorities decide to move the holiday to Monday, August 24, workers would enjoy a three‑day weekend that includes the usual Saturday‑Sunday break. The move is still provisional because the exact date depends on the moon‑sighting that confirms the Islamic calendar.
Even without a confirmed shift, the possibility of an extra day off sparks early planning among families and travel agencies. Hotels in Abu Dhabi and other emirates often see a surge in bookings when long weekends are announced, and retailers prepare for higher foot traffic. The tentative nature of the August holiday means businesses are keeping schedules flexible, ready to adjust staffing and services once the official announcement arrives.
Possible four‑day weekend in December
National Day falls on Wednesday, December 2, and Thursday, December 3, 2026, giving two consecutive public holidays. Because Friday, December 4, sits directly before the regular weekend, the Cabinet could transfer the Wednesday holiday to that Friday, creating a four‑day break from Thursday through Sunday. Alternatively, the holidays may remain on their original dates, leaving a standard two‑day weekend.
Should the four‑day weekend materialise, residents are likely to take advantage of the extended break for road trips, beach outings or visits to cultural sites. Retail outlets and entertainment venues typically report a spike in activity during such periods, and the tourism sector prepares for increased domestic travel. The decision, however, is still pending and will be announced after the relevant authorities review the calendar.
Both scenarios illustrate how the UAE's holiday policy can shape leisure plans. By allowing certain holidays to be moved, the Cabinet aims to give employees and businesses more flexibility while still respecting the fixed dates of major Islamic celebrations like Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha, which remain unchanged under the same rules.
Frequently asked questions
What are the upcoming UAE public holidays?
The upcoming UAE public holidays are Prophet Mohammed's birthday on Tuesday, August 25 2026, and National Day on Wednesday 2 and Thursday 3 December 2026.
Can the Cabinet shift public holidays in the UAE?
Yes. Under Cabinet Resolution No. 27 of 2024 the government may move eligible holidays to the start or end of the work week, creating longer rest periods.
How might a three‑day weekend in August affect hotels in Abu Dhabi?
Hotels in Abu Dhabi and other emirates typically see a surge in bookings when a long weekend is announced, as families plan travel during the extra day off.
What might happen to retail outlets during a four‑day weekend in December?
Retail outlets and entertainment venues usually report higher foot traffic and sales, while the tourism sector prepares for increased domestic travel.
Can the exact date of Prophet Mohammed's birthday be confirmed?
No. The exact date depends on the moon‑sighting that confirms the Islamic calendar, so the holiday remains provisional.
What are some possible activities for a four‑day weekend in December?
Residents often use the extended break for road trips, beach outings, or visits to cultural sites across the Emirates.
