In an official declaration on Friday, Dubai affirmed the New Year holiday for its government sector, designating January 1, 2024, Monday, as a paid day off.
Paid holiday confirmed for January 1, 2024
The Dubai Government Human Resources Department released a circular outlining the details of the holiday, emphasizing that regular work activities will resume on Tuesday, January 2, 2024.
Exclusions for Specific Departments and Institutions
However, a notable aspect of this announcement is the exclusion of certain departments and institutions. The circular specifies that entities with employees working in shifts or engaged in roles directly related to public service or the management of public service facilities will not observe the holiday. This nuanced approach recognizes the essential nature of specific roles that demand continuous operation for public benefit.
Individualized Working Hours Determined by Entities
For the excluded categories, each entity falling under the exclusion criteria will have the flexibility to determine working hours based on their operational requirements. This tailored approach allows for adaptability in ensuring the seamless functioning of critical services even during the holiday period.
A Federal Announcement Sets the Precedent
The Dubai municipal administration's decision is consistent with the federal setting. The federal government and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization granted employees in the public and private sectors a holiday on January 1st, the day before. The three-day weekend that this coordinated holiday offers encourages people to get together and celebrate.
Balancing Celebration and Essential Services
The careful consideration of exclusions in Dubai's government sector holiday announcement demonstrates a balanced approach. While embracing the celebratory aspect of the New Year, it also acknowledges the indispensable roles performed by certain departments and institutions that contribute to the well-being of the public. This thoughtful strategy ensures that essential services remain uninterrupted even during festive occasions.