As the calendar turns, the anticipation of public holidays is something many of us eagerly await. The idea of a bonus day off, especially one granted by the government, is a much-appreciated relief in today’s busy world. But how many public holidays do different countries get? And which nation takes the lead in offering the most?
In the UAE for 2025, residents are set to enjoy at least 12 public holidays, though the exact number could vary depending on lunar moon sightings. This number is relatively generous when compared to other nations. For instance, the UK has confirmed just eight public holidays for England, Scotland, and Wales, and ten for Northern Ireland.
However, Dubai’s 12 days off in 2025 are far from the global maximum. So, which countries top the list in terms of public holidays, and how does Dubai compare to them?
The World’s Most Public Holidays
According to World Population Review, Nepal leads the world with 35 public holidays in 2025. This impressive total reflects the country’s rich and diverse culture, which is marked by numerous religious and cultural observances. Among the most significant holidays are New Year’s Day, Holi, Vijayadashami, and Nari Diwas, Nepal’s local version of International Women’s Day.
Following closely behind is Myanmar, which will observe 32 public holidays in 2025. Myanmar’s wide-ranging diversity of over 130 ethnic groups and more than 100 languages is reflected in its public holiday calendar, which celebrates a variety of religious events, such as Buddhist Lent, Christmas Day, Eid Al Adha, and Diwali.
Countries like Iran, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Egypt also feature prominently on the list, with 26, 25, 22, and 22 public holidays respectively. These countries celebrate a mix of religious and historical events that are integral to their national identities. Iran, for example, observes key Islamic holidays, while Sri Lanka’s public holidays honor both Buddhist and Hindu traditions.
Comparing Global Public Holidays
While countries like Nepal and Myanmar lead the way, others such as the United States and the UK have far fewer public holidays. The U.S. observes 11 federal holidays, while the UK’s total varies between eight and ten, depending on the region.
The UAE’s public holidays are determined in part by lunar calendars, meaning their dates shift each year. As such, the UAE’s public holidays in 2025 may fluctuate slightly, but the total number is generally among the higher ranks globally.
Top Countries for Public Holidays in 2025
Here’s a breakdown of the countries with the most public holidays in 2025:
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Nepal: 35 public holidays
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Myanmar: 32 public holidays
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Iran: 26 public holidays
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Sri Lanka: 25 public holidays
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Bangladesh: 22 public holidays
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Egypt: 22 public holidays
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India: 21 public holidays
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Cambodia: 21 public holidays
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Argentina: 19 public holidays
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Lebanon: 19 public holidays
Conclusion
While the UAE offers a generous number of public holidays in 2025, it is outpaced by countries like Nepal and Myanmar, where the number of holidays can reach up to 35 days. Whether driven by religious observance, cultural heritage, or historical significance, the number of public holidays reflects each country’s unique identity and priorities. For those living in Dubai, 12 days off may seem modest in comparison to these global leaders, but it’s still a valuable opportunity to rest and recharge amid the busy pace of modern life.
