UAE public holidays in 2027 include approximately 13-14 federal holidays, with Islamic holidays subject to moon sighting. The UAE Labour Law requires all employers to observe these holidays and provide paid time off to employees.
The UAE’s holiday calendar blends Islamic observances with national celebrations. Islamic holidays shift annually based on the lunar calendar, making advance planning essential for employers.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Consult an employment lawyer for guidance specific to your organisation.
Key Takeaways
- UAE observes approximately 13-14 federal public holidays in 2027
- Islamic holidays are subject to moon sighting and may shift by 1-2 days
- Private sector employees are entitled to paid public holidays
- UAE National Day (2 December) is the most significant national holiday
- Employers must display the holiday list at the workplace
UAE Public Holidays 2027 (Estimated)
The UAE government announces official dates closer to each holiday. Islamic holidays are approximate:
| Holiday | Estimated Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | 1 January | Friday |
| Eid Al Fitr (end of Ramadan) | ~21 March | Sunday |
| Eid Al Fitr (Day 2) | ~22 March | Monday |
| Eid Al Fitr (Day 3) | ~23 March | Tuesday |
| Arafat Day | ~29 May | Saturday |
| Eid Al Adha (Day 1) | ~30 May | Sunday |
| Eid Al Adha (Day 2) | ~31 May | Monday |
| Eid Al Adha (Day 3) | ~1 June | Tuesday |
| Islamic New Year | ~19 July | Monday |
| Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday | ~18 September | Saturday |
| Commemoration Day | 1 December | Wednesday |
| UAE National Day | 2 December | Thursday |
| UAE National Day (Day 2) | 3 December | Friday |
Note: Islamic holiday dates are estimates based on the Islamic calendar. Actual dates depend on moon sighting announcements by UAE authorities.
What the UAE Labour Law Requires
Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021
The UAE Labour Law governs public holidays for all employees:
- Private sector employees are entitled to paid public holidays
- Public sector employees receive paid holidays as per government directives
- If an employee works on a public holiday, they are entitled to a replacement day off or additional pay
Holiday Pay Calculation
Employees are paid their basic daily wage for public holidays. If required to work:
- Receive a replacement day off within a reasonable period, OR
- Receive basic wage plus 50% for the hours worked
Islamic Holiday Rules
Islamic holidays are confirmed by the UAE government after moon sighting. Employers should:
- Monitor official announcements from the UAE government
- Update the holiday calendar when dates are confirmed
- Grant leave on the officially announced dates
Sector-Specific Considerations
Free Zone Companies
Companies in free zones (DIFC, DMCC, JAFZA, etc.) generally follow federal holiday rules. However, some free zones may have additional holidays. Check your free zone authority’s guidelines.
Essential Services
Businesses providing essential services may operate on public holidays. Employees working must receive replacement days off or additional pay.
Tourism and Hospitality
Hotels, restaurants, and tourism businesses often operate with skeleton staff on public holidays. Plan staffing carefully and ensure compliance with holiday pay requirements.
Common Mistakes
1. Not Updating Islamic Holiday Dates
Islamic holidays shift annually. Employers who use last year’s dates without checking official announcements risk non-compliance.
2. Not Providing Replacement Days
If an employee works on a public holiday, they must receive a replacement day off or additional pay. Failing to do so is non-compliance.
3. Confusing Public Holidays with Annual Leave
Public holidays are separate from annual leave entitlements. An employee on annual leave during a public holiday is not charged a day of annual leave.
Record-Keeping Requirements
Maintain records of:
- Public holiday calendar for each year
- Dates when employees worked on public holidays
- Replacement days off or additional pay granted
- Official government announcements for Islamic holidays
Keep records for at least two years.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the exact Islamic holiday dates be confirmed?
The UAE government announces official dates closer to each holiday, typically 1-2 weeks before. Monitor official government channels for announcements.
Are free zone employees entitled to public holidays?
Yes. Employees in free zones are generally entitled to the same federal public holidays. However, check your specific free zone’s guidelines for any variations.
Can an employee on annual leave during a public holiday use it as a leave day?
No. If an employee is on annual leave and a public holiday falls during that period, the public holiday is not counted as a day of annual leave. The employee is entitled to both.
What if a public holiday falls on a weekend?
The UAE’s weekend is Saturday-Sunday (as of 2022). If a public holiday falls on a weekend, the government may announce a replacement holiday on another day.
Managing UAE holidays across your organisation? Leave Balance auto-applies federal holidays, tracks Islamic holiday date updates, and keeps your compliance records in order.