Many expatriates in the UAE are extending their festive celebrations by strategically combining their annual leave with the January 1 public holiday, embracing cherished holiday traditions and family reunions.
As the festive season draws near, many expatriates living in the UAE are making the most of the public holiday on January 1, 2025, by strategically combining it with their annual leave to enjoy extended time off from work. This thoughtful approach allows them to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s with their families and reconnect with their loved ones, despite being far from home.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation recently announced the January 1 public holiday for both government and private sector employees. This announcement has proven to be a welcome break for those who are keen to balance their professional responsibilities with personal time. For many expatriates, this holiday represents an opportunity to celebrate Christmas, a time that’s often spent surrounded by family and friends.
John Andrew, a senior accountant who has lived in the UAE for seven years, exemplifies this trend. He planned his annual leave months in advance, ensuring that he would be able to visit his family in Australia for Christmas. “I always make sure to save my annual leave for this time of year,” John explained. “It’s important for me to spend the holidays with my family. Christmas is a tradition I cherish, and being away from home makes it even more special to reunite with loved ones.” John’s proactive approach allows him to maximize his time with his family, emphasizing the importance of balancing work with personal life during the holiday season.
David Lee, an American expat working in the tech industry, shares a similar sentiment. He has decided to take four days off starting December 24. “The holidays are the best time to be with family,” David said. “One day just isn’t enough to celebrate Christmas meaningfully. It’s about creating lasting memories, reflecting on the year, and enjoying the company of those I love.” David believes that many expatriates struggle with balancing work and family commitments during the festive period, and he sees taking a few extra days off as essential to a more fulfilling holiday experience.
For Maria Gonzalez, a Spanish expatriate, the holiday season calls for a more extended break. Maria has opted for two weeks off to embrace the festive spirit without the stress of work. “I want to enjoy this time without worrying about work,” she explained. “The holidays are a chance to unwind, celebrate, and recharge for the year ahead.” Maria’s approach to work-life balance highlights a growing trend among expatriates in the UAE, who are increasingly prioritizing their personal lives and well-being during the holiday season.
The UAE’s diverse expatriate community brings a mix of traditions to the festive season, creating a unique and vibrant atmosphere. Maria noted that although many expatriates are far from their home countries, they still find ways to celebrate their cultural traditions and share the joy of the season with friends and family in the UAE. “The UAE is a melting pot of cultures, and the festive spirit is palpable,” she remarked.
As the UAE prepares for the upcoming public holiday, expatriates like John, David, and Maria are setting an example for how to balance work and personal life during the holidays, making the most of their time with loved ones and embracing the festive spirit, regardless of distance from home.
