Here is our guide to the important days in the UAE that are scheduled for 2018.
When it comes to holidays, those working in the public sector can expect more days off than those in the private sector.

All public holidays are paid, and may not count towards an employee’s annual leave.

* Dates of Islamic holidays are subject to change in accordance with the moon sighting

January 1 – New Year’s Day

New Year’s Day is fixed on January 1 to celebrate the dawn of the new Gregorian year. The UAE joins the global party with fireworks, parades, and parties. Every year, the Burj Khalifa is the centerpiece for one of the greatest firework displays in the world.

In 2018, New Year’s Day falls on a Monday, so it won't be a long weekend unless you book the 31st of December off. Plan well in advance.

April 13 – Al Isra'a Wal Mi’raj – Ascension Day

Al Isra'a Wal Mi’raj is an Islamic holiday, which is observed annually on the 27th day of the Islamic month of Rajab, according to the Hijri calendar. The holiday marks the night Allah took Mohammad (PBUH) on a journey from Makkah to Jerusalem, and then to heaven. The journey was made in a single night, hence the name.

In 2018 the holiday falls on Saturday, April 14.

June 15 – Eid Al Fitr

Roughly translated, Eid Al Fitr means 'festival of breaking the fast'. The holiday is a celebration which marks the end of Ramadan (which is forecast to end on June 15 or 16). It is a time to show kindness to others and love for Allah.

Eid Al Fitr begins automatically after the last day of Ramadan, on the first day of Shawwal. Holidays vary between one or two days from the start of Eid Al Fitr.

June 15 and 16 fall on a Friday and Saturday respectively.

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