UAE Public Holidays Transferable on Weekends: New Law Explained
The UAE has introduced a new rule allowing certain public holidays transferable weekends, giving residents more rest days and flexibility. Residents in the UAE can now enjoy more flexibility when planning time off, thanks to a new rule that changes how public holidays are scheduled.
Earlier this year, Cabinet Resolution No. (27) of 2024 was introduced, allowing certain public holidays that land on a Friday or Saturday to be shifted to the following weekday. The update is designed to give employees in the UAE more consistent rest days without losing out when key holidays overlap with weekends.
Which UAE Public Holidays Transferable on Weekends?
The new rule doesn’t apply to every public holiday. Here’s a breakdown:
| Holiday | Transferable if on Weekend? |
|---|---|
| Eid Al-Fitr | ❌ No |
| Eid Al-Adha | ❌ No |
| New Year’s Day | ✅ Yes |
| National Day | ✅ Yes |
| Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Birthday | ✅ Yes |
| Islamic New Year | ✅ Yes |
⚠️ Note: If a holiday overlaps with another public holiday or directly touches a weekend, it won’t be transferred.
Why This Matters for Residents
- Work-life balance: Employees no longer lose rest days when holidays clash with Fridays or Saturdays.
- Better trip planning: Long weekends are easier to arrange with fewer leave days needed.
- Employer policies differ: Some companies may apply the transfer differently—always check with HR.
Smart Leave Planning Tips
To make the most of the new holiday system, UAE residents can follow these strategies:
- Track holidays in advance: Add both Gregorian and Hijri dates into your calendar apps.
- Stack leave days strategically: Combine a transferred holiday with weekends for mini getaways.
- Coordinate with HR early: Policies may vary, so confirm how your company applies transferred holidays.
- Understand your leave policy: Annual leave calculated in calendar days may deduct holidays; in working days it usually doesn’t.
Final Takeaway
The UAE’s 2025 public holiday transfer system is more than just a scheduling update, it’s a tool for better balance. With holidays like National Day and New Year’s shifting to weekdays when they fall on weekends, residents can enjoy longer breaks without draining annual leave.
For many, it means smarter planning, extra rest, and a chance to turn regular weekends into memorable staycations or travel opportunities.
