January 1 officially confirmed as holiday for UAE public sector employees

January 1, 2025, had already been part of the UAE public holiday dates set out for the next year. But the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources confirmed on Friday that public sector employees across the country can enjoy a paid leave on January 1.

The UAE Cabinet has set out public holiday dates for 2025. These include Eid al-Fitr, The Prophet Mohammad’s birthday, Commemoration Day, and Eid al-Etihad or National Day. Public sector employees can join back starting January 2.

إجازة رأس السنة الميلادية في الحكومة الاتحادية الأربعاء 1 يناير 2025.
New Year Holiday in the Federal Government is on Wednesday, 1st January, 2025. pic.twitter.com/DQEaNmYy1X

— FAHR (@FAHR_UAE) December 20, 2024

UAE’s public holidays based on moon-sightings

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation is expected to soon confirm the public holiday for UAE’s private sector. Nonetheless, it should be noted that despite some public holidays been already announced, the exact dates are yet to be confirmed.

This is because many of the UAE’s public holidays are decided on the basis of specific moon-sightings. But that said, many scholars across the country can soon estimate the announced holidays’ exact dates quite accurately.

Burj Khalifa a major highlight of NYE celebrations

The public holiday on January 1 is a sign of celebration in the UAE. Scores of people in the country flock to Burj Khalifa in Dubai – the tallest building on the planet – to ring in the upcoming year in style and glamour.

Once again, Burj Khalifa is going to be a major highlight of NYE celebrations. On a first-come, first-served basis, different designated free public viewing areas shall open at 5 pm in the vicinity. Major roads in the area are set to close from 6 pm.