For the final public holiday of the year, UAE government employees will enjoy a 4-day weekend in celebration of National Day, now referred to as Eid Al Etihad, as announced on Friday.
December 2 and 3, which fall on a Monday and Tuesday, will be paid holidays for those in the private sector, according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (Mohre). This decision aligns with a circular issued by the Ministry, implementing the Cabinet's decision on approved public holidays for both government and private sectors in 2024.
When combined with the usual Saturday-Sunday weekend, the National Day break effectively becomes a four-day weekend. A unified holiday policy in the UAE ensures that both public and private sector workers receive an equal number of breaks throughout the year.
Also known as the UAE Union Day, the National Day is celebrated on December 2 each year to commemorate the unification of the Emirates in 1971. This year marks the country's 53rd anniversary. Each year, UAE citizens and residents celebrate the National Day with enthusiasm, often adorning their cars with UAE flags. Last year, authorities issued guidelines for celebrations, focusing on maintaining order on the roads and avoiding disruptions in communal spaces.
In October, popular visa-free destinations like Georgia, Azerbaijan, Thailand, Armenia, and the Maldives saw a significant increase in flight prices during the UAE National Day long weekend. Travel experts reported that round-trip tickets, which typically cost around Dh800, surged to over Dh2,800 for some destinations.
With airfares to popular destinations rising, residents are exploring alternative ways to celebrate the National Day holiday. Cruises offer a single package that often includes accommodations, meals, and entertainment, making them an attractive option. As demand for 'seacations' increases, travel agents are also offering packages for the last public holiday of the year.
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