UAE Announces Public Holidays for December 1 & 2, 2025: Full Details of the Long Union Day Weekend. The United Arab Emirates has officially announced December 1 and 2, 2025, as public holidays for all federal government employees. The update was issued by the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) as part of the nationwide celebrations for the 54th Union Day.
This announcement means government workers will enjoy a four-day long weekend, starting from Saturday and ending Tuesday. Regular work schedules will resume on Wednesday, December 3, 2025.
What Is Union Day in the UAE?
Union Day, also known as Eid Al Etihad, marks the historic unification of the Emirates on December 2, 1971. It is one of the UAE’s most important national holidays, celebrated every year with great pride and excitement.
The day honors:
- The founding fathers of the UAE
- The leadership’s vision
- The nation’s achievements across more than five decades
- The unity and progress of the Emirates
The announcement also included warm congratulations to the UAE’s leaders, citizens, and residents, highlighting Union Day as a moment to reflect on the country’s transformation from desert towns into a global hub of innovation, culture, and economic strength.
Long Weekend for Residents and Government Staff
Since the public holidays fall just after the weekend (Saturday–Sunday), UAE government employees will enjoy:
- Saturday – Weekend
- Sunday – Weekend
- Monday – December 1 (Public Holiday)
- Tuesday – December 2 (Public Holiday)
This extended break gives families and residents extra time to celebrate, travel, relax, and enjoy the nationwide festivities.
Celebrations Planned Across the UAE
Every year, the Emirates host vibrant, large-scale activities to mark Union Day. In 2025, residents and tourists can expect a wide variety of events, including:
Cultural Performances
Traditional Emirati arts, storytelling, and heritage shows.
Music Concerts
Featuring regional and international artists.
Traditional Dances
Performances of Ayala, Harbiya, and other Emirati dances.
Family-Friendly Events
Fun activities in parks, public spaces, and cultural centres.
Beautiful Decorations
UAE flags, lights, and themed installations across streets, malls, and buildings.
These events highlight the UAE’s multicultural society, where people from over 200 nationalities celebrate together in unity.
Sharjah Announces Special 2-Week Union Day Festival
Sharjah has prepared an extensive schedule of events for the 54th Eid Al Etihad, running from November 19 to December 2, 2025. Activities will be held across:
- Heritage neighbourhoods
- Parks & gardens
- Tourist attractions
- Waterfront areas
- Cultural and arts centres
Programs include:
- Traditional crafts & handmade goods
- Emirati food stalls
- Historical exhibitions
- Interactive family programs
- Student participation events
Sharjah’s goal is to showcase the UAE’s deep-rooted traditions while highlighting the country’s modern identity and cultural diversity.
Fireworks, Drone Shows & Mega Celebrations
One of the most awaited parts of Union Day each year is the spectacular fireworks displays.
From November 27 to December 3, multiple emirates—including:
- Dubai
- Abu Dhabi
- Sharjah
- Ajman
will host dazzling fireworks, drone shows, musical events, parades, and public performances.
Popular spots such as beaches, parks, waterfront areas, and malls will attract thousands of visitors enjoying the vibrant night atmosphere.
Conclusion
The declaration of December 1 and 2, 2025 as public holidays gives UAE residents a longer weekend filled with excitement, celebration, and national pride. With cultural shows, fireworks, concerts, and community events spread across all seven emirates, the 54th Union Day promises to be a memorable occasion. It is a time to honor the UAE’s history, celebrate its achievements, and look forward to an even more promising future.
