UAE: Private sector employees across the UAE will receive a four-day paid holiday from Tuesday, May 26, to Friday, May 29, 2026, in observance of Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha, according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization.
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Four Paid Days Confirmed for Private Workers
The holiday will apply to private sector workers nationwide. Employees covered by the announcement are entitled to full pay during the official break.
The dates cover Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha, two of the most important occasions in the Islamic calendar. Arafat Day is observed before Eid Al Adha and is closely linked to the Hajj pilgrimage.
For many workers, including Filipino expats in the UAE, the long break offers time for prayer, rest, family gatherings, travel, or simple recovery from work.
Work Resumes After the Weekend
The announced holiday runs from Tuesday, May 26, until Friday, May 29.
Since Saturday and Sunday usually form the weekend for many UAE workers, normal operations are expected to resume on Monday, June 1, depending on each company’s work schedule.
Employees should still check internal company announcements, especially those working in hospitality, retail, healthcare, security, transport, and other essential services where shift schedules may continue.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation announced that from Tuesday, 26 May to Friday, 29 May will be a paid official holiday for all private sector employees in the UAE, on the occasion of Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha.
— وزارة الموارد البشرية والتوطين (@MOHRE_UAE) May 18, 2026
Eid Mubarak! #MOHRE #UAE pic.twitter.com/I8xHIDrR3n
Employers Must Follow the Official Holiday
Private sector employers are expected to comply with the official paid holiday period. This means employees should not lose pay because of the holiday.
For workers who may be asked to report due to business needs, the matter should be handled according to UAE labor rules and company policies.
Employees should avoid relying only on verbal instructions. It is better to check written notices from HR or management, especially for shift changes, replacement days, or holiday work arrangements.
Why This Matters for OFWs and Expats
For Filipino workers and other expats, knowing the exact dates early helps with planning. Some may use the break to send money, visit friends, attend community gatherings, book short trips, or rest after long workweeks.
The four-day paid holiday also gives workers more certainty when arranging transport, family calls, church or community activities, and personal errands.
