2023 Public Holidays Announced

Official public and private sector holidays for 2023 have been announced by the UAE cabinet, with dates for the two sectors aligned. 

UAE parents have faced struggles in previous years, with schools being required to close for public sector holidays, and parents employed in the private sector receiving fewer days off. The alignment of holidays for the two sectors in 2023 is likely to be met with relief.

UAE schools are set to close on seven school days (dates falling in the Monday to Friday school week during term time). The exact date of Ramadan’s beginning, however, is determined by religious scholars, who must observe sightings relating to the cycle of the moon, meaning that dates can vary.

Official public and private sector holidays for 2023 have been confirmed as the following:

Gregorian New Year: January 1 (Sunday)
Eid Al Fitr: Ramadan 29 to Shawwal 3 - expected April 20 - 23 (Thursday - Saturday)
Arafah Day: Dhul Hijjah 9 - expected June 27 (Tuesday)
Eid Al Adha: Dhul Hijjah 10-12 - expected June 28 - 30 (Wednesday - Friday)
Hijri New Year: July 21 (Friday)
Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday: September 29 (Friday)
UAE National Day: December 2-3 (Saturday - Sunday)