Three weeks to go. Flags are going up on balconies. Shops are filling with red, green, white and black. And everyone at work is asking: “Are you taking leave around National Day?”
This year, the UAE marks its 55th National Day, also called Eid Al Etihad. With a little planning, it can become one of your longest breaks of the year.
Here’s everything you need to know: the official dates, the smartest leave plans, Commemoration Day, what’s on, and a few rules to remember.
Quick answer: UAE National Day 2026 (Eid Al Etihad) is a public holiday on Wednesday 2 and Thursday 3 December, for both the public and private sectors. Take Friday 4 December off and you get five days (Wednesday to Sunday). Take three leave days (30 November, 1 December and 4 December) and you get nine days off, from Saturday 28 November to Sunday 6 December. The Cabinet can move the holiday, but no change had been announced as of 13 November.
National Day 2026 Dates at a Glance
| Date | Day | What it is |
| 30 November 2026 | Monday | Commemoration Day (working day) |
| 2 December 2026 | Wednesday | National Day public holiday |
| 3 December 2026 | Thursday | National Day public holiday |
| 4 December 2026 | Friday | Working day for most (good day to take leave) |
| 5 and 6 December 2026 | Saturday and Sunday | Weekend |
For every other 2026 date, see our UAE public holidays 2026 calendar.
Is National Day a Holiday for the Private Sector?
Yes. Private sector staff get the same National Day holiday as government staff. That’s Wednesday 2 and Thursday 3 December 2026, both fully paid.
Some jobs never stop, like in hospitals, airports, hotels or security. If you have to work, UAE labour rules usually give you something back, like another day off or extra pay. Check with HR.
How to Get the Longest Break
| Plan | Leave days needed | Total days off |
| Just the holiday | 0 | 2 days (Wed 2 to Thu 3 Dec) |
| Take Friday 4 December off | 1 | 5 days (Wed 2 to Sun 6 Dec) |
| Take Mon 30 Nov, Tue 1 Dec and Fri 4 Dec off | 3 | 9 days (Sat 28 Nov to Sun 6 Dec) |
Book leave early. Many colleagues will want the same days. If you’re planning the nine-day break, ask your manager now, before the requests pile up.
Could the Holiday Dates Change?
Possibly. The Cabinet can move some holidays to the start or end of the week. This creates a long weekend. In 2025, for example, the holiday was moved to Monday 1 and Tuesday 2 December.
Decisions like this usually come in mid-November. As of 13 November 2026, the official dates are still Wednesday 2 and Thursday 3 December. We’ll update this article if anything changes.
Commemoration Day: 30 November
Before National Day comes Commemoration Day, on Monday 30 November. It honours the Emirati martyrs who gave their lives in service of the nation.
It’s a day of quiet reflection. People across the country stand for a minute of silence. The flag flies at half-mast for part of the day, then is raised again. It’s a working day, not a public holiday.
What Does National Day Celebrate?
On 2 December 1971, six emirates came together to form the United Arab Emirates, with Ras Al Khaimah joining in February 1972. Eid Al Etihad, meaning “Union Day”, marks that moment.
This year’s celebrations also fall in the UAE’s Year of Family. Events are planned across the country. National Day ends a month of celebrations that began with UAE Flag Day on 3 November.
Where to Celebrate
- Fireworks and shows: big attractions usually mark National Day with fireworks. The Sheikh Zayed Festival in Al Wathba is known for spectacular National Day displays, and Global Village holds special celebrations too.
- Heritage events: expect traditional music, dance and crafts at heritage villages and cultural centres across the emirates.
- Malls and waterfronts: many host family activities, parades and light shows over the holiday.
- Official ceremony: the national celebration is broadcast live on TV and online on 2 December.
Event schedules are usually confirmed in late November, so check each venue’s official channels nearer the time.
Planning a Trip?
National Day is a popular time to travel, both abroad and within the UAE. A few tips:
- Book early. Flights, hotels and staycations fill up fast.
- Check your flights. Some regional routes are seeing cancellations. Our guide to flight disruptions explains your options.
- Road trips: budget for higher fuel prices, and plan rest stops on long drives.
- Staycations: many UAE hotels offer National Day packages. Compare offers and cancellation rules.
Car Decorations: Wait for This Year’s Rules
Decorating cars in the national colours is a much-loved tradition. Each year, police share the rules shortly before National Day. In past years, you couldn’t cover windows, number plates or lights. Rude or unsuitable stickers weren’t allowed either. Drivers who break the rules can be fined.
Wait for this year’s official guidance before decorating, and follow it closely. And if you photograph the celebrations, remember the UAE’s privacy rules before sharing images of other people.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Word: Plan Now, Celebrate Together
The UAE’s 55th National Day is a moment for everyone who calls this country home. Book your leave early, keep an eye out for any holiday changes, and pick a few events to enjoy with family and friends. Happy Eid Al Etihad in advance.
Official source: UAE Government portal: public holidays.
This article is based on official holiday rules and news reports up to 13 November 2026. Holiday dates can be changed by Cabinet decision, so check official announcements. Last updated: 13 November 2026.
