Dubai Declares Official New Year Holiday

New Year in Dubai: Public Sector Holiday, with Exceptions

Employees in Dubai can already prepare for the year's first official day off, as it has been announced that January 1, 2026, which falls on a Thursday, will be an official non-working holiday for the public sector. This decision is another step in the United Arab Emirates' effort to align the holiday regulations of the public and private sectors, although some exceptions have been noted, affecting many different sectors in Dubai.

Official New Year's Day Off for the Public Sector

According to a circular issued by the Dubai Government Human Resources Department (DGHR), public sector employees will have a day off on January 1, and official work will resume on January 2, Friday. However, this Friday will not return in the usual manner: those in roles suitable for telecommuting will have the option to work from home.

This flexible approach reflects the modern perspective gaining momentum in Dubai in the fields of work organization and governmental efficiency. The decision allows for a gradual return to the daily work schedule after the holiday while maintaining continuous services.

Not Everyone Can Rest - Important Exceptions

Although most public sector employees will enjoy the official day off, this won't be the case in every workplace. The DGHR release clearly stated exceptions for organizations set up for continuous operation, such as facilities providing public services, institutions operating infrastructure, or units with shift work schedules.

These workplaces can determine their employees' work schedule for January 1 at their discretion, taking into account the need to maintain essential services and uninterrupted operations. The goal is not for everyone to work on the holiday but to ensure that the city's services continue to run smoothly, especially in areas where constant presence is crucial.

Uniform Rules in the Private Sector

It is important to highlight that the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) previously confirmed that employees in the private sector will also be entitled to a paid day off on January 1. This suggests a harmonization in the holiday practices of the public and private sectors, which have often differed previously.

In the private sector, however, it is common for certain areas, such as hospitality, tourism, healthcare, or logistics, not to experience an automatic day off on the first day of the year. In these places, it is common for employees to work on holidays, naturally compensated with bonuses or later rest days.

The Rise of Remote Working Models

That the official workday on January 2 will be conducted via telework is further evidence that hybrid working is increasingly becoming the norm in Dubai. The city has previously undertaken numerous initiatives to strengthen digitization and work flexibility, one manifestation of which is facilitating the ability to work from home.

This not only provides convenience for employees but also aligns with the city's goals of traffic reduction, sustainability, and efficiency enhancement. On the day following the holiday, there is no need to return to the office immediately, but work can continue from home—which is especially important for those spending New Year's with family or traveling.

What Does This Mean for Dubai Residents and Visitors?

The official confirmation of the holiday also signals to residents and tourists that most public institutions in Dubai will be closed on January 1. This affects governmental offices, certain state services, and administrative agencies. If someone planned to handle administrative tasks, submit documents, or engage in other official matters on January 1, it is advisable to either do it in advance or postpone it to January 2.

However, the city remains vibrant at this time of year: restaurants, hotels, tourist sites, and shopping malls will continue to operate—and with the aftermath of New Year's Eve celebrations, particularly high visitor numbers can be expected. Dubai is renowned for its spectacular fireworks, exclusive events, and New Year's tourist programs, so lively activity is anticipated on the first day of the new year.

Summary

Dubai has officially announced the 2026 New Year holiday for the public sector, which acknowledges modern work organization and ensures service continuity. Office workers can return to work calmly from home after a restful day, while units ensuring the city's operation will continue their activities as usual.

This balanced approach allows the city's residents to celebrate the new year fittingly, while Dubai—a city of flexibility and efficiency—continues to function smoothly. Besides being a symbolic day off, the focus remains on ensuring the year's first day is positive, smooth, and festive for everyone—residents, tourists, and service providers alike.

(Based on a statement from the Dubai Government Human Resources Department (DGHR).)