Dubai: The UAE public and private sector will have a holiday on Sunday December 11 to celebrate the birthday of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH).

The announcement was made by the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) on Wednesday.

In a circular that was posted on Twitter, the FAHR issued a decision that 12th Rabee Al Awwal, 1438 AH, will correspond to December 11, 2016, and will be an official holiday for employees of the ministries, public authorities and other departments of the federal government on the occasion of the Prophet’s Birthday (PBUH).

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation also declared Sunday December 11, 2016 an official paid holiday for private sector employees.

Saqr Ghobash, Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation, made the announcement as per the implementation of the provisions of Article 74 of the Federal Law No.8 of 1980 concerning labour relations and its amendments.

The minister sent his regards to His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice-President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and Their Highnesses Members of the Supreme Council and Rulers of the seven emirates.

He wished all citizens and resident in the UAE happiness and prosperity on this occasion, and prayed for further progress and wealth to all Arab and Islamic nations.