GUIDE
Dubai public holidays: what stays open?
Malls, supermarkets, restaurants, hotels and many attractions generally stay open, and some extend their hours or host celebrations. Individual shops, delivery services and venues may follow different schedules, so check directly before travelling or booking.
Government offices, bank branches and customer service centres may close or operate reduced hours. Online services can remain accessible, but submitting an application doesn't necessarily mean it will be reviewed during the holiday. Allow extra time for approvals, document checks and transactions.
Public transport usually continues operating, with holiday timetables announced by RTA. Check your route before travelling, especially around major events. Don't assume all parking or Salik gates are free: parking exemptions have specific dates and exclusions, while Salik follows its own charging schedule.
If you're moving during a holiday, confirm the arrangements before booking movers. Ask building management whether moves are permitted, whether the service lift is available and when permits must be approved. Check installation appointments and handover availability with each provider too—an open booking system doesn't guarantee a holiday appointment.
Working hours and weekends in Dubai
Saturday and Sunday are the weekend for Dubai government offices and many office-based businesses, but working patterns vary. Some private companies operate six days a week, while retail, hospitality, healthcare and other services use shifts. Check your employment contract rather than assuming every workplace follows the same schedule.
For private-sector employees covered by the UAE Labour Law, normal working hours are generally eight hours a day or 48 hours a week, subject to applicable exceptions. Employees are entitled to at least one paid weekly rest day. Breaks are generally separate from working time, so your total time at work may be longer.
Friday is a working day for many people. Dubai government's standard schedule is Monday to Thursday, 7:30am–3:30pm, with a shorter Friday, 7:30am–12 noon. Flexible arrangements, seasonal initiatives and individual service-counter hours can differ, so check the department's published timings before visiting.
During Ramadan, normal private-sector working hours are reduced by two hours a day under the applicable labour rules. Government offices announce their Ramadan schedules separately. Shops, restaurants and service providers may also adjust their opening hours.
For your move, remember that a company being open doesn't mean its approvals or installation teams are available. Building management, permit teams, movers and utility providers may follow different schedules. Confirm appointments and submission deadlines before choosing moving day.