Public holidays in the UAE are more than just days off—they celebrate diverse cultures, rich traditions, and shared moments of reflection and joy. For residents and expats, they’re opportunities to pause, connect with loved ones, and explore everything the UAE and its neighbouring countries have to offer.

The UAE’s holiday calendar is unique because it blends Islamic and Gregorian holidays, reflecting the nation’s cultural and religious diversity. This guide explores the official UAE public holidays for 2024, their significance, how to make the most of them, and their impact on life in the Emirates.

The UAE’s public holidays reflect its rich cultural and religious identity. Islamic holidays such as Eid Al-Fitr, Eid Al-Adha, and Hijri New Year (Islamic New Year) are deeply rooted in Islamic traditions. At the same time, Gregorian celebrations like New Year’s Day and UAE National Day highlight the nation's modern and inclusive nature.

One fascinating aspect of Islamic holidays is their reliance on the lunar Hijri calendar. Unlike the solar Gregorian calendar, which is shorter by around 10–12 days yearly, the Hijri calendar is lunar. This means the dates of Islamic holidays shift annually, adding an element of anticipation and flexibility to the UAE holiday calendar.

The holidays create a sense of unity in a country home to people of over 200 nationalities. From traditional family gatherings to vibrant public events, the UAE’s public holidays offer something for everyone.

Here’s the official list of UAE public holidays for 2024, separated into Islamic and Gregorian observances:

Gregorian Holidays

Islamic Holidays

2024, there will be many long weekends, which means plenty of opportunities to plan getaways or enjoy the festivities. Key dates include the Eid holidays in April and June and the extended UAE National Day weekend in December.

Note: Islamic holiday dates depend on moon sightings, so always double-check announcements closer to the time.

Each holiday carries deep cultural and religious meaning, adding layers of significance to these special days:

These days, you’ll find traditional Emirati cuisine, community events, and an air of camaraderie that emphasises the UAE’s spirit of togetherness.

Public holidays in the UAE are perfect for exploring, whether you’re planning a quick escape or seeking adventure closer to home. Here are some ideas:

With long weekends, take advantage of local travel platforms like Traveloka to book hassle-free flights and accommodations. Popular destinations include the Maldives, Oman, and Jordan for their proximity and unique experiences.

The UAE is bursting with weekend getaways from the scenic Hatta Mountains to the picturesque Fujairah coastline. Explore Al Ain’s lush oases or the historic Al Fahidi District in Dubai to uncover the country’s quieter side.

Celebrate UAE National Day by attending parades and cultural performances, or join the traditional celebrations of Eid in your local neighbourhood. Visit mosques and community centres to gain a deeper understanding of the customs.

Consider Dubai’s theme parks or Abu Dhabi’s waterfront Corniche for family-friendly fun. Solo adventurers might opt for a desert safari or a serene yoga session by the beach.

Public holidays play a vital role in driving economic activity across various sectors in the UAE:

These holidays are not just moments of cultural significance—they’re also economic catalysts that energise the country.

The UAE government has taken progressive steps to standardise public and private holidays, ensuring alignment and better work-life balance. This effort makes planning more manageable for everyone and fosters equality between sectors.

The UAE public holiday calendar has not been significantly updated for 2024, but keep an eye out for updates—we’ll be the first to share the news when they are available.

Holiday seasons are busy, but you can make the most of them with some planning. Here’s how:

By preparing early, you’ll avoid the holiday rush and enjoy a stress-free experience.

UAE public holidays in 2024 are perfect for creating unforgettable memories. Whether celebrating Eid with loved ones or planning exciting new adventures, make the most of your time off by booking flights, hotels, and the best activities with Traveloka. Start planning your ultimate holiday today!