Based on a timetable issued by the UAE Cabinet, citizens will have the opportunity to celebrate at least thirteen public holidays in the year 2024.
Public holidays in the UAE for 2024
Among the seven official occasions, four will result in extended weekends, including one break lasting up to six days. These holidays offer a mix of relaxation and travel opportunities for residents throughout the year.
In addition to the public holidays, employees in the UAE are entitled to 30 days of annual leave. Recent travel surveys indicate that many expatriates use their annual leave to visit their home countries, planning their trips around public holidays and long weekends. This trend highlights the importance of these holidays for expatriates who seek to maximize their time off for travel and family visits.
Public holidays in the United Arab Emirates are mostly determined by the Islamic calendar. In order to help residents plan their year, we have estimated the relevant Gregorian dates using the Hijri calendar from the Dubai Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD). Keep in mind that the appearance of the crescent moon determines whether the Islamic calendar month is 29 or 30 days long. It follows that the appropriate authorities will confirm the specific holiday dates when the events draw near.
- Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year): Expected to fall on Sunday, July 7. This one-day holiday marks the start of the Islamic year. While it doesn't create a long weekend, it provides a day off for those without a Sunday weekend.
- Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday: believed to be on Rabi Al Awwal 12, the specific date on the Gregorian calendar will be confirmed closer to the time.
- UAE National Day is the last official holiday of the year, celebrated on December 2 and 3, which falls on Monday and Tuesday in 2024. Combined with the Saturday-Sunday weekend, this creates a four-day break.
Benefits of Public Holidays and Long Weekends
Public holidays and extended weekends in the UAE provide valuable opportunities for residents to rest, travel, and spend quality time with family and friends. These breaks are especially significant for expatriates, who often plan their travel back home or explore new destinations during these periods. The anticipation of these holidays also contributes to overall well-being, offering intervals of relaxation and rejuvenation.
For accurate planning, residents should keep an eye on announcements from relevant authorities regarding the exact dates of Islamic holidays. This vigilance ensures that plans can be adjusted according to the confirmed dates, maximizing the benefits of these breaks. Additionally, considering staycations during long weekends can be a great way to explore local attractions and unwind without extensive travel.
With 13 public holidays and four long weekends in 2024, UAE residents will have ample opportunities to enjoy extended breaks. The alignment of these holidays with the Islamic calendar underscores the cultural significance of these occasions. By staying informed about the exact dates and making the most of annual leave, residents can look forward to a year filled with travel, rest, and memorable experiences.
