Overview
- The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources announced the decision on December 11, confirming a paid public holiday for federal and public-sector employees on Thursday, January 1, 2026.
- Federal workers will operate remotely on Friday, January 2, except staff whose roles require physical presence to maintain critical functions.
- Sharjah confirmed the New Year’s Day holiday for its government entities, with official work resuming on Monday, January 5 due to the emirate’s three-day weekend for public-sector employees.
- Local outlets report scheduled New Year fireworks across the UAE, with daily displays available through January 11.
- Ras Al Khaimah plans a 15-minute show along six kilometres of coastline using more than 2,300 drones, pyrotechnics and lasers, with an attempt to set a Guinness World Record for the largest single firework.