Is Christmas a public holiday in the UAE? Here’s what you need to know

Christmas Day (December 25) is not an official public holiday in the United Arab Emirates. The UAE’s official holiday calendar, set by the federal government, lists only specific national and Islamic holidays (such as New Year’s Day, Eid Al Fitr, Eid Al Adha, National Day, Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday, Hijri New Year, Arafah Day, etc.), and Christmas isn’t included in this list for either public or private sector employees.