Which country gives the most public holidays—and how does the UAE compare?

In light of France’s recent proposal to cut two public holidays to improve economic productivity, the global spotlight has turned to public holiday policies around the world. So, which country offers the most public holidays—and how does the UAE fare? Top Countries by Public Holidays 🇳🇵 Nepal: Tops the list globally with 35 public holidays annually. 🇮🇳 India, 🇨🇴 Colombia, and 🇵🇭 Philippines: Each offer around 18 holidays per year. 🇸🇰 Slovakia: Leads Europe with 15 days of public holidays. 🇺🇸 United States: Has 12 federal holidays, though observance varies by state. 🇫🇷 France: Currently offers 11 nationwide holidays, but that number may drop if reforms go through. 🇳🇱 Netherlands and 🇩🇰 Denmark: Offer just 9 days, among the lowest in Europe. 🇬🇧 UK (England) and 🇨🇦 Canada: Each have fewer than 10 holidays a year. 🇦🇪 UAE Public Holidays (2025) UAE residents enjoy up to 13 public holidays per year, depending on the Islamic calendar. Here's the breakdown for 2025: Gregorian New Year: Jan 1 (1 day) Eid Al-Fitr: Shawwal 1–3 (3–4 days) Arafa Day: Thu Al-Hijjah 9 (1 day) Eid Al-Adha: Thu Al-Hijjah 10–12 (3 days) Hijri New Year: Muharram 1 (1 day) Prophet’s Birthday: Rabi’ Al-Awwal 12 (1 day) UAE National Day: Dec 2–3 (2 days) These holidays are moments for cultural celebration and quality time, often accompanied by travel, shopping, and family gatherings. Do you think more public holidays improve well-being—or hurt productivity? Let us know how you feel about the balance between work and time off.

Add your Comment:

+