UAE Public Holiday Transfer Rule Could Deliver a Three-Day Weekend in August
By Thasmiya
UAE residents could be in line for another long weekend next month, thanks to the country’s public holiday transfer rules. If approved by the Cabinet, the upcoming holiday marking **Prophet Mohammed’s (PBUH) Birthday** could be moved to the beginning of the working week, creating a three-day weekend for many employees.
## **Why a Three-Day Weekend Is Possible**
Under **Cabinet Resolution No. 27 of 2024**, the UAE government has the flexibility to move certain public holidays that fall midweek to the beginning or end of the week.
The rule aims to provide longer breaks for residents while reducing disruption during the working week. However, any transfer must be officially announced by the Cabinet.
## **Which Holiday Could Be Moved?**
Based on current Hijri calendar projections:
- **Prophet Mohammed’s (PBUH) Birthday** is expected to fall on **Tuesday, August 25, 2026**. - If the transfer rule is applied, the public holiday could move to **Monday, August 24**. - This would create a **three-day weekend** (Saturday, Sunday and Monday) for both public and private sector employees.
## **Important Things to Know**
- The holiday date is **not yet official**. - Islamic holidays are confirmed only after the **official moon sighting**. - Authorities are expected to announce the final holiday closer to the occasion. - The Cabinet must also issue an official decision before any transfer takes effect.
## **Which Holidays Can Be Transferred?**
The transfer rule applies to selected public holidays, but **does not apply to Eid Al Fitr or Eid Al Adha**, which remain on their religiously determined dates.
The law also states that a public holiday **cannot be moved** if it already falls on a weekend or coincides with another public holiday.
## **What Comes After August?**
Following Prophet Mohammed’s (PBUH) Birthday, the final public holiday of 2026 will be **Eid Al Etihad (UAE National Day)** on **December 2 and 3**.
## **Why This Matters**
While the August holiday has not yet been confirmed, the UAE’s transfer policy means residents could enjoy another three-day weekend if the Cabinet decides to shift the holiday to Monday. Travellers and families planning ahead should wait for the official announcement before making final arrangements.
### **Source Credits**
Information source/resource owners: UAE Government, UAE Legislation, Gulf News.
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