The UAE is all set to celebrate its National Day, and for many residents, this means a well-deserved break. However, some people have taken things to the next level by stretching the official holiday into a full nine-day vacation! Through smart planning and strategic leave applications, they have managed to enjoy an extended holiday, making the most of this special occasion.
Official National Day Holiday
The UAE government announced that public and private sector employees would have a long weekend to celebrate the country’s 52nd National Day. This year, the holiday falls on December 2nd and 3rd, with an official break extending from December 1st (Friday) to December 3rd (Sunday). This three-day weekend is a great opportunity for residents to relax, travel, or spend time with family and friends.
How Some Residents Are Getting 9 Days Off
While the official holiday lasts only three days, some employees have found a way to turn it into a nine-day break by using just a few days of their annual leave. Here’s how they’re doing it:
- December 1st to 3rd – Official UAE National Day long weekend.
- December 4th to 7th (Monday to Thursday) – Taking four days of paid leave.
- December 8th and 9th (Friday and Saturday) – Regular weekend.
By taking leave from December 4th to 7th, employees are able to link the National Day break with the following weekend, effectively enjoying nine days off from December 1st to December 9th.
Why Are Residents Choosing a Longer Holiday?
Many UAE residents see this as a great opportunity to travel, spend time with family, or simply unwind. With the winter season bringing pleasant weather, it’s the perfect time for vacations and outdoor activities. Here are some reasons why people are opting for an extended break:
- Travel Plans: Many residents are using this time to visit their home countries or explore international destinations.
- Staycations: Some prefer to stay within the UAE and enjoy luxury resorts, desert retreats, or beachside relaxation.
- Family Time: With children also having school holidays, families are making the most of this time to bond and celebrate together.
- Work-Life Balance: A long holiday helps in reducing stress and recharging before the busy end-of-year season.
Travel Boom During National Day Week
With many residents choosing to travel, airlines and travel agencies have reported a surge in bookings. Popular destinations include the Maldives, Thailand, the UK, Turkey, and European cities known for their festive Christmas markets. Ticket prices have also seen a rise, with some travelers booking months in advance to secure better deals.
Local travel within the UAE is also booming, with hotels in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah experiencing high demand. Desert resorts, beach resorts, and family-friendly hotels have been offering special National Day packages to attract visitors.
Employers’ Response to Extended Leave Requests
While some companies are flexible with leave requests, others have strict policies, making it difficult for employees to take extra days off. Industries like healthcare, retail, and customer service require staff to be present, especially during busy holiday seasons.
However, businesses that can accommodate flexible leave requests are seeing happier and more productive employees. Many employers encourage work-life balance and understand the benefits of allowing workers to take time off to recharge.
Festivities Across the UAE
For those staying in the UAE, there is no shortage of celebrations! The National Day festivities include fireworks, concerts, parades, and cultural performances across all emirates. Popular spots like Burj Khalifa, Yas Island, and Global Village are hosting grand events to mark the occasion.
Final Thoughts
With a bit of smart planning, some UAE residents have managed to turn the National Day holiday into a relaxing nine-day escape. Whether traveling abroad, enjoying a local staycation, or simply taking a break, this extended holiday is giving many people a chance to celebrate in their own way. If you didn’t get to take advantage of it this year, maybe it’s time to plan ahead for next year’s National Day break!
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