The UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) has officially declared Wednesday, January 1, 2025, as a paid holiday for all private sector employees across the UAE. This announcement aligns with the federal government sector holiday schedule, offering workers a midweek break to celebrate the New Year.

Official Holiday Declaration

The ministry shared the announcement via their official social media channels, confirming that private sector workers will receive their regular wages during this holiday. This declaration maintains consistency with the UAE’s commitment to harmonising public and private sector holidays.

Holiday Schedule Details

  • Private sector employees: Wednesday, January 1, 2025
  • Regular operations resume: Thursday, January 2, 2025
  • Payment status: Fully paid holiday
  • Applicability: All private sector entities across UAE

Government Sector Alignment

The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) had previously issued a circular confirming identical holiday dates for federal government employees. This coordination between government and private sector holidays reflects the UAE’s standard practice of maintaining parity in holiday schedules across all employment sectors.

Planning for Businesses

Companies should factor this holiday into their early 2025 operational schedules. This midweek holiday offers employees an opportunity to start the new year with a refreshed outlook while allowing businesses to maintain productivity levels through strategic planning.

Key Takeaway

Private sector employees in the UAE will receive a paid holiday on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, with regular business operations resuming on Thursday, January 2. This official announcement allows both employers and employees to plan accordingly for the first public holiday of 2025.


This article follows updates from official UAE government sources and relevant employment regulations. For specific workplace policies, employees should consult their HR departments.

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