Update: It’s been confirmed, the private sector gets a holiday too!

The UAE government has announced the UAE public sector will receive one day off for Islamic New Year, or Hijri.

Government employees will enjoy a holiday on Thursday, September 13, making it a long weekend for those with Friday/Saturday weekends. It has also been announced that the private sector will enjoy the same holiday.

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The actual date of Hijri is still to be confirmed, as it is dependent on the sighting of the moon. However, it is expected to fall between Monday, September 10 and Wednesday, September 12.

A dry day is also expected on the official day of the holiday, which celebrates Prophet Mohammed’s journey from Makkah to Madinah. This will mean no alcohol can be served for 24 hours across the UAE, and applies to all outlets, including hotels. We’ll let you know as soon as we have those details.

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