September 25, 2025 | UAE: With Eid Al Etihad (UAE National Day) drawing near, many residents are watching closely whether UAE public holidays 2025 will offer a long weekend. As the country prepares to celebrate its 54th UAE National Day, the possibility of bonus holiday days has sparked excitement across the Emirates.
Traditionally, Eid Al Etihad is observed on December 2, with a second holiday day on December 3. In 2025, both days are officially declared as part of the public holidays 2025 schedule. But thanks to a more flexible holiday policy, there’s a real chance this could turn into weekend long enough, especially considering how the calendar aligns this year.
What Is Eid Al Etihad & Why It Matters?
Eid Al Etihad, also known as National Day of UAE commemorates the union of the emirates in December 1971. The 2025 observance marks the 54th National Day, a milestone full of national pride, cultural shows, fireworks, and large-scale public events. The UAE public holidays include December 2 (Tuesday) and December 3 (Wednesday) for Eid.
Preparations are already under way, with plans for grand celebrations across all emirates, and a strong possibility of creating an extended break so residents can take full advantage of the festive spirit.
Possibility of a Long Holiday Weekend in 2025
Because UAE public holidays allow for non-Eid holidays to be moved to the start or end of the week (a rule introduced to help align public holidays more conveniently), many speculate that Eid Al Etihad 2025 could become a longer weekend.
Here’s how that might work:
- If December 1 (Monday) is declared a holiday either by shifting or adding then the break from Saturday to Wednesday becomes four or even five days.
- Because Eid falls midweek in 2025, moving part of the holiday makes practical sense and supports the idea of a long weekend of rest and celebration.
- In past instances, holidays have been shifted or extended under the rule that non-Eid public holidays can move. Many see this year as prime for applying that flexibility to Eid.
So while the official public holiday days remain December 2–3 under UAE public holidays, the calendar suggests a real chance that many residents will enjoy an extended break.
What It Means for Residents & Travelers
If Eid becomes a long weekend, that gives residents chance to:
- Plan inter-emirate or off-emirate travel while maximizing holiday time
- Attend national day parades, cultural performances, and fireworks in prime locations
- Spend relaxed time with family, enjoy local attractions, or take mini-vacations
- Avoid disruption to work or school by booking around a confirmed extended break
For travelers, hotels, events, and transport services are likely to see higher demand. Booking early will be key if you want to make the most of the weekend when celebrating the 54th National Day.
What to Watch for Before Plans Are Finalised?
To see whether the weekend becomes official, keep an eye on:
- Government announcements from the UAE Cabinet or Ministry of Human Resources
- Whether December 1 is declared a public holiday or the December 3 holiday is moved
- Local emirate-level holiday extensions (some emirates may add extra observances)
- Event schedules, large public events or broadcasts that signal the scale of celebrations for Eid 2025
Whether the Eid break becomes a longer weekend or remains a two-day holiday, the UAE public holidays promises grand celebration for the UAE National Day. With cultural performances, fireworks, national pride, and the potential of extra holiday time, December will be a month to look forward to. Until official word arrives, residents can keep hope alive and plan their ideal festive escape.
Also Read: New Attendance Rules in Abu Dhabi
