Dubai: Private sector employees can now enjoy an extended weekend in celebration of the UAE National Day, thanks to an additional day off granted by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation. While initially, December 2 and 3 were designated as paid holidays for the national occasion, an update from the ministry on Thursday expanded the break to December 2, 3, and 4 (Saturday, Sunday, and Monday) for workers in the private sector.

This adjustment mirrors the holiday schedule for government workers, who will also observe December 2-4 as days off. Government employees will engage in remote work on the preceding day, Friday, December 1, consistent with the usual half-day work schedule for most government workers who follow a 4.5-day work week.

All employees, regardless of the sector, are expected to resume work on Tuesday, December 5. The unified holiday policy ensures an equitable distribution of breaks throughout the year for both public and private sector workers.

The National Day, also known as UAE Union Day, is celebrated annually on December 2, marking the unification of the Emirates in 1971. This year, the country commemorates its 52nd National Day.