UAE announces three-day federal holiday for 55th Union Day

The UAE Government Media Office has announced a three-day holiday for federal government employees to mark the country's 55th Union Day in 2026, giving public sector workers an extended break to celebrate the national occasion.

According to the announcement, the holiday will begin on Wednesday, December 2, and continue until Friday, December 4, 2026. Official working hours across federal government entities will resume on Monday, December 7.

The holiday will allow employees to enjoy a long weekend, with the break spanning five consecutive days, including Saturday and Sunday, December 5 and 6.

The 55th Union Day commemorates the historic unification of the seven emirates on December 2, 1971, marking the establishment of the United Arab Emirates. The occasion celebrates the country's journey of unity, development and progress, while honouring the vision of the founding fathers.

Union Day is one of the UAE's most significant national occasions, bringing communities together to celebrate the nation's achievements, identity and shared future.