The United Arab Emirates’ Federal Authority has announced that Thursday, January 1, 2026, will be a public holiday for all government and private sector employees to celebrate the New Year. “All government and private employees will have a day off on Thursday, January 1, 2026.”

According to the official statement, Friday, January 2, will be a remote workday for federal employees. Employees whose work requires physical presence at the office will be expected to attend in person.

Festivities across the UAE are planned on a grand scale. In Ras Al Khaimah, a 15-minute fireworks display will light up a 6-kilometer-long beach.

In Dubai, New Year celebrations will include fireworks, drone shows, concerts, and beach parties at popular locations including Global Village, Atlantis The Palm, and Bluewaters Island.

Abu Dhabi will host an extended 62-minute fireworks display as part of the Sheikh Zayed Festival, featuring “the world’s largest drone performance,” highlighting the UAE’s commitment to spectacular New Year celebrations and public entertainment.