Is Christmas A Holiday in The UAE?
It’s a question many new expats and residents ask in the lead up to the big day…
Is Christmas a holiday in The UAE? Bazaar Arabia shares everything you need to know.
With just two weeks until Santa makes his annual appearance, residents and families throughout the UAE are getting ready to ring in the holiday season – and with December 24 and 25 being two of the most important dates for Christians around the world, many will be taking time off to spend with their loved ones, extending the holiday celebrations up until January 1, 2025 – the Gregorian New Year.
With such a high ex-pat population, many UAE residents wonder whether or not December 25 is considered an official holiday in the emirates.
So… Is Christmas A Holiday in The UAE?
Although some employers give their workers December 25 off, which falls on a Wednesday this year, Christmas is not an official public or private holiday in the UAE, so many offices will be open. Those wishing to relax on December 26, Boxing Day, will also need to book annual leave, but the January 1, 2025, is recognised as a public holiday.
What days will the UAE public and private sectors have off in 2025?
As Islam is the official religion of the UAE, Muslim holidays are celebrated throughout the emirates.
The official list of the UAE’s 2025 holidays has now been released, including expected dates for Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, along with 2025’s National Day Long Weekend dates.
How can you celebrate Christmas in the UAE?
Whether you choose to visit one of the region’s festive Christmas markets, or to visit Father Christmas for a magical meet and greet in Dubai, there are plenty of heart-warming ways to spend this special holiday.
Lead image courtesy of Instagram/@mo_jumeira