Dubai has officially declared Thursday, January 1, 2026, as a New Year public holiday for public sector employees, according to a circular issued by the Dubai Government Human Resources Department (DGHR).
The announcement confirms that government employees will observe a one-day holiday on January 1, with official work resuming on Friday, January 2, 2026. DGHR also noted that January 2 will be designated as a remote working day, provided the nature of the employee’s role allows for remote work.
However, the department clarified that the holiday will not apply to entities that operate on a shift-based system, or to departments and institutions involved in essential services and the management of public facilities. Such entities will continue to function according to their approved operational schedules to ensure uninterrupted public services.
Earlier, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) had announced that private sector employees across the UAE are also entitled to a paid public holiday on January 1, 2026, to mark the New Year.
The announcement allows both public and private sector employees to plan ahead for the New Year celebrations, while ensuring continuity of essential services across the emirate.
