Key Takeaway
If you work during the Eid Al Fitr public holiday in the UAE, you’re legally entitled to either a replacement day off or your regular wage plus at least 50% of your basic salary as compensation.
Official Eid Al Fitr Holiday 2025
The UAE government has confirmed a three-day holiday for both public and private sector employees during Eid Al Fitr 2025. Work will resume on Wednesday, 2 April. As announced by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), Eid Al Fitr is a paid public holiday for all private sector workers in the UAE.
But what happens if your employer requires you to work during this holiday period? What compensation are you entitled to receive? Let’s examine your rights according to the UAE Labour Law.
Your Legal Rights When Working on Public Holidays
Under the UAE Labour Law, Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021 (effective from 2 February 2022), Article 28 clearly outlines how private sector employees should be compensated for working during public holidays:
- The worker shall be entitled to official days off with full pay on public holidays, which are defined by a resolution of the Cabinet.
- If work conditions require that the worker works during any of the public holidays, the employer shall compensate him with another day off for each day, on which he works during the holiday, or pay him the wage for that day according to the wage established for the normal working days, plus an increase of not less than 50 per cent of the basic wage for that day.
Who Qualifies for Holiday Compensation?
It’s important to understand the conditions that must be met for this compensation to apply.
According to Suneer Kumar, Senior Associate at Al Suwaidi and Company:
“Article 28 of UAE Labour Law No. 33/2021 is applicable to all employees – irrespective of categories or grade – provided that the employer requested the employer to work or the work requirement necessitates the employee, with permission, to work during the public holidays. [Then the] employer will compensate them with another day of rest, in exchange for every day of holiday, or the employee will be paid the wages in respect of that day and will additionally be paid an excess of not less than 50 per cent of the basic salary for that day.”
Understanding Your Compensation Options
If you’re required to work during Eid Al Fitr, your employer must provide one of these two compensation options:
- Alternative Day Off: A replacement day off for each holiday you work, or
- Financial Compensation: Your regular daily wage plus a minimum 50% increase of your basic salary for that day
How to File a Labour Complaint
If you believe your rights regarding holiday compensation have been violated, you can file a complaint with MOHRE through these channels:
- Call MOHRE’s hotline: 800 60
- Use the MOHRE mobile application to file a labour complaint
- Visit www.mohre.gov.ae and select the option for filing a labour complaint
To file a complaint via the app or website, you’ll need to:
- Create an account
- Provide your passport details
- Supply your work permit (labour card) number
After filing a complaint, you’ll receive a call within 72 working hours from a legal advisor with the Twa-fouq centre. The advisor will initially attempt to find an amicable solution to your issue.
No Cost to Employees
It’s worth noting that employees are not charged any fees for filing labour complaints with MOHRE.
Planning Your Eid Al Fitr Holiday
While many UAE residents will be enjoying the Eid Al Fitr holiday with family and friends, essential workers across various sectors will continue providing vital services. If you’re among those working during this festive period, knowing your legal rights to compensation can help you plan accordingly.
Whether you prefer an additional day off at another time or the financial benefit of holiday pay, the UAE Labour Law safeguards your entitlements.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. For specific situations regarding your employment rights, please consult with a legal professional familiar with UAE labour laws.
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