Residents across the UAE could enjoy a three-day weekend next month if the government shifts the upcoming public holiday for Prophet Mohammed’s (PBUH) Birthday. The possible change is allowed under the country’s public holiday rules, which give authorities the flexibility to move certain national holidays to the beginning or end of the working week.
According to the current Hijri calendar projection, Prophet Mohammed’s (PBUH) Birthday is expected to fall on Tuesday, August 25, 2026. The occasion is observed on the 12th day of Rabi Al Awwal, the third month of the Islamic calendar.
The UAE introduced this flexible holiday system under Cabinet Resolution No. 27 of 2024. The policy allows the government to transfer eligible public holidays that fall during the middle of the week. The goal is to provide longer breaks for employees and reduce disruptions to the work schedule.
If the transfer rule is applied, the public holiday could be moved to Monday, August 24, 2026. This would create a three-day weekend for employees in both the public and private sectors. However, the final decision has not yet been announced.
The official holiday date depends on the sighting of the new crescent moon. Since the Islamic calendar follows lunar observations, the beginning of each Hijri month is confirmed through the official moon-sighting process. Authorities will announce the confirmed holiday closer to the date.
The UAE government has clarified that not every public holiday can be moved. Religious holidays such as Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha remain fixed according to Islamic traditions. These holidays are observed on their religiously determined dates and are not covered by the transfer provision.
The law also places limits on moving holidays. Under Article 3 of the Cabinet resolution, a holiday cannot be transferred if it already falls during a weekend or if it overlaps with another official public holiday. These restrictions help maintain the official holiday calendar.
Employees in both the public and private sectors are entitled to paid leave on officially declared public holidays. This benefit remains unchanged under the country’s labour laws.
If an employee is required to work during an official public holiday, the employer must provide compensation. Workers should either receive a substitute day off or additional payment. If no replacement leave is given, the employee must receive their regular wage plus at least 50 percent of their basic daily wage for the holiday worked.
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The possible holiday shift has attracted attention from residents planning travel and family activities. Many are now waiting for the official announcement from the authorities. If approved, the UAE could see another extended weekend before the end of 2026, giving employees additional time to rest and spend time with their families.
