worldwide public holidays news and updates of the past seven days
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Thailand Announces Date Of 2026 Royal Ploughing Ceremony Public Holiday Thai News Agency (Bangkok) The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives of the government of Thailand has announced the date of the 2026 Royal Ploughing Ceremony annual non-working public holiday, as Monday, May 11, 2026. Until 2010, the government of Thailand used to declare the date of the Royal Ploughing Ceremony public holiday a few weeks only before the actual event. But then, until 2018, the Royal Ploughing Ceremony public holiday was announced well in advance, with one exception, in 2019, probably due to an error in the announced date of the 2018 Royal Ploughing Ceremony public holiday date which was moved at the last minute to Monday, May 14, 2018, as compared to the previously-announced date of Thursday, May 10, 2018.
Thailand Announces Date Of 2026 Royal Ploughing Ceremony Public Holiday Thai News Agency (Bangkok) The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives of the government of Thailand has announced the date of the 2026 Royal Ploughing Ceremony annual non-working public holiday, as Monday, May 11, 2026. Until 2010, the government of Thailand used to declare the date of the Royal Ploughing Ceremony public holiday a few weeks only before the actual event. But then, until 2018, the Royal Ploughing Ceremony public holiday was announced well in advance, with one exception, in 2019, probably due to an error in the announced date of the 2018 Royal Ploughing Ceremony public holiday date which was moved at the last minute to Monday, May 14, 2018, as compared to the previously-announced date of Thursday, May 10, 2018.
Benin Traditional Religions Public Holidays January 8-9 Site officiel du gouvernement du Bénin (Cotonou) Bénin's Ministry of Labour and Social Security, Adidjatou Mathys, has issued a communique announcing that Thursday and Friday, January 8 and 9, 2026, had been declared as paid public holidays "in accordance with the provisions of Law No. 2024-32 of 02 September 2024 establishing the annual festival of traditional religions in the Republic of Benin". Recall that, in the summer of 2024, Benin's Ninth Legislature unanimously approved a change to the observance of the annual fête des religions endogènes, also known as fête de Vodoun, which was until 2024 celebrated on January 10. The Loi No.2024 - 32 du 02 Septembre 2024 fixant la fête annuelle des religions traditionelles en République du Bénin, signed into law by Benin's President in September 2024, legislates that, beginning in 2025, the annual fête des religions traditionelles is to be celebrated on the second Friday of January, and the day before ("Article 3 : La journée du deuxième vendredi du mois de janvier et celle du jeudi qui la précède sont chômées et payées.").
Benin Traditional Religions Public Holidays January 8-9 Site officiel du gouvernement du Bénin (Cotonou) Bénin's Ministry of Labour and Social Security, Adidjatou Mathys, has issued a communique announcing that Thursday and Friday, January 8 and 9, 2026, had been declared as paid public holidays "in accordance with the provisions of Law No. 2024-32 of 02 September 2024 establishing the annual festival of traditional religions in the Republic of Benin". Recall that, in the summer of 2024, Benin's Ninth Legislature unanimously approved a change to the observance of the annual fête des religions endogènes, also known as fête de Vodoun, which was until 2024 celebrated on January 10. The Loi No.2024 - 32 du 02 Septembre 2024 fixant la fête annuelle des religions traditionelles en République du Bénin, signed into law by Benin's President in September 2024, legislates that, beginning in 2025, the annual fête des religions traditionelles is to be celebrated on the second Friday of January, and the day before ("Article 3 : La journée du deuxième vendredi du mois de janvier et celle du jeudi qui la précède sont chômées et payées.").
Ghana Moves Constitution Day Public Holiday To Janauary 9 Ghana Government Portal (Accra) Ghana's Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has issued the press release Declaration of Friday, 9th January 2026 as a Public Holiday, following an Executive Instrument issued by President John Dramani Mahama. The aforementioned press release states that "The general public is hereby informed that Wednesday, 7th January 2026, marks Constitution Day, which is a Statutory Public Holiday. However, in view of the fact that 7th January 2026 falls on a Wednesday, His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Ghana, has, by Executive Instrument (E.I), in accordance with Section 2 of the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days Act (Act 601), as amended, declared Friday, 9th January 2026, as a Public Holiday and should be observed as such throughout the country". Recall that, last June, Ghana's Parliament approved the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days (Amendment) Bill, 2025 which had been presented by Interior Minister, Mohammed Muntaka Mubarak and enshrines the recent announcements of the reestablishment of July 1st as a public holiday, as well as the addition of a second day of public holiday for the Eid ul-Fitr (End of Ramadan), and moving all midweek holidays that fall on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays to Fridays, "to extend weekends and increase productivity". And, indeed, the day after the promulgation of the aforementioned law, Minister Mohammed-Mubarak issued the press statement Declaration of Friday, 4th July 2025 as a Public Holiday, stating that "The general public is hereby informed that Tuesday, 1st July 2025, is Republic Day." but that "However, His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Ghana, by Executive Instrument (E.I), in accordance with Section 2 of the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days Act, 2021 (Act 601) has declared Friday, 4th July, 2025 as a Public Holiday and should be observed as such throughout the country.".
Ghana Moves Constitution Day Public Holiday To Janauary 9 Ghana Government Portal (Accra) Ghana's Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has issued the press release Declaration of Friday, 9th January 2026 as a Public Holiday, following an Executive Instrument issued by President John Dramani Mahama. The aforementioned press release states that "The general public is hereby informed that Wednesday, 7th January 2026, marks Constitution Day, which is a Statutory Public Holiday. However, in view of the fact that 7th January 2026 falls on a Wednesday, His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Ghana, has, by Executive Instrument (E.I), in accordance with Section 2 of the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days Act (Act 601), as amended, declared Friday, 9th January 2026, as a Public Holiday and should be observed as such throughout the country". Recall that, last June, Ghana's Parliament approved the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days (Amendment) Bill, 2025 which had been presented by Interior Minister, Mohammed Muntaka Mubarak and enshrines the recent announcements of the reestablishment of July 1st as a public holiday, as well as the addition of a second day of public holiday for the Eid ul-Fitr (End of Ramadan), and moving all midweek holidays that fall on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays to Fridays, "to extend weekends and increase productivity". And, indeed, the day after the promulgation of the aforementioned law, Minister Mohammed-Mubarak issued the press statement Declaration of Friday, 4th July 2025 as a Public Holiday, stating that "The general public is hereby informed that Tuesday, 1st July 2025, is Republic Day." but that "However, His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Ghana, by Executive Instrument (E.I), in accordance with Section 2 of the Public Holidays and Commemorative Days Act, 2021 (Act 601) has declared Friday, 4th July, 2025 as a Public Holiday and should be observed as such throughout the country.".
Kazakhstan 2026 Public Holidays Announced Electronic government of the Republic of Kazakhstan (Astana) The Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan has released the list of 2026 public holidays in Kazakhstan. For the third year in a row, it has not decided on the declaration of any bridge holidays and compensatory working Saturdays, during the year, as is (was?) customary "in accordance with paragraph 3 of Article 85 of the Labor Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan and for the rational use of working time". Recall that, in November, the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population had announced that that there were no plans to move the days off in January 2026 and that January 5th and 6th, 2026, would be working days, contrary to last year when the Ministry had issued a partial release of the upcoming О переносе дня отдыха в 2025 году annual decree which specified that "the day off from Sunday, January 5, 2025, is transferred to Friday, January 3, 2025".
Kazakhstan 2026 Public Holidays Announced Electronic government of the Republic of Kazakhstan (Astana) The Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Kazakhstan has released the list of 2026 public holidays in Kazakhstan. For the third year in a row, it has not decided on the declaration of any bridge holidays and compensatory working Saturdays, during the year, as is (was?) customary "in accordance with paragraph 3 of Article 85 of the Labor Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan and for the rational use of working time". Recall that, in November, the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Population had announced that that there were no plans to move the days off in January 2026 and that January 5th and 6th, 2026, would be working days, contrary to last year when the Ministry had issued a partial release of the upcoming О переносе дня отдыха в 2025 году annual decree which specified that "the day off from Sunday, January 5, 2025, is transferred to Friday, January 3, 2025".
Egyptian 2026 Public Holidays Announced The Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt (Cairo) The Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt has published the list of Egyptian national public holidays for the calendar year 2026. We expect this list to be amended over the course of the year, as the Egyptian government has, since 2020, moved most mid-week public holidays, except for Eid El-Fitr, Eid El-Adha, and Coptic Christmas, to the nearest Thursday. This was eventually the case, in 2025, when Sinai Liberation Day, the June 30 Revolution Day, the 23 July Revolution anniversary, Al-Mawlid Al-Nabawi (Prophet Muhammad's birthday), and Armed Forces Day, were moved to a nearby Thursday. And, in 2024, the public holidays of May 1st, July 23 (Revolution Day), and September 16 (Prophet Muhammad's Birthday) were also moved to a nearby Thursday.
Egyptian 2026 Public Holidays Announced The Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt (Cairo) The Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt has published the list of Egyptian national public holidays for the calendar year 2026. We expect this list to be amended over the course of the year, as the Egyptian government has, since 2020, moved most mid-week public holidays, except for Eid El-Fitr, Eid El-Adha, and Coptic Christmas, to the nearest Thursday. This was eventually the case, in 2025, when Sinai Liberation Day, the June 30 Revolution Day, the 23 July Revolution anniversary, Al-Mawlid Al-Nabawi (Prophet Muhammad's birthday), and Armed Forces Day, were moved to a nearby Thursday. And, in 2024, the public holidays of May 1st, July 23 (Revolution Day), and September 16 (Prophet Muhammad's Birthday) were also moved to a nearby Thursday.
Chad Declares January 1st Public Holiday Agence Tchadienne de Presse (N’Djamena) Chad's Minister of Public Service and Social Dialogue, Abdoulaye Mbodou Mbami, has issued a communiqué declaring Thursday, January 1, 2026, a as public holiday in the Chad, in accordance with Article 1 of Decree No. 413/PR/MFPTEM/97 of September 30, 1997, revising the list and regulations of public holidays and days off. As is customary, the aforementioned communiqué points out that the next day shall be a regular working day ("la journée du vendredi, 02 janvier 2026 est ouvrable").
Chad Declares January 1st Public Holiday Agence Tchadienne de Presse (N’Djamena) Chad's Minister of Public Service and Social Dialogue, Abdoulaye Mbodou Mbami, has issued a communiqué declaring Thursday, January 1, 2026, a as public holiday in the Chad, in accordance with Article 1 of Decree No. 413/PR/MFPTEM/97 of September 30, 1997, revising the list and regulations of public holidays and days off. As is customary, the aforementioned communiqué points out that the next day shall be a regular working day ("la journée du vendredi, 02 janvier 2026 est ouvrable").
DR Congo Overhauls National Heroes Public Holidays Présidence de la République Démocratique du Congo (Kinshasa) The President of the Republic of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (RDC), Félix Tshisekedi, has promulgated the bill establishing the National Order of National Heroes, adopted during the September ordinary session by the National Assembly and the Senate. As per Article 4 of the aforementioned legislation, read on Congolese National Radio and Television (RTNC), earlier tonight, the date of death of each National Hero will continue to be commemorated, but all National Heroes will henceforth be commemorated on a single date, declared a public holiday, a day off work with pay throughout the entire national territory, a date that will be set by decree of the President of the Republic.
DR Congo Overhauls National Heroes Public Holidays Présidence de la République Démocratique du Congo (Kinshasa) The President of the Republic of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (RDC), Félix Tshisekedi, has promulgated the bill establishing the National Order of National Heroes, adopted during the September ordinary session by the National Assembly and the Senate. As per Article 4 of the aforementioned legislation, read on Congolese National Radio and Television (RTNC), earlier tonight, the date of death of each National Hero will continue to be commemorated, but all National Heroes will henceforth be commemorated on a single date, declared a public holiday, a day off work with pay throughout the entire national territory, a date that will be set by decree of the President of the Republic.
Congo Brazzaville Declares January 2 Public Holiday Conseil des Ministres de la République du Congo (Brazzaville) The Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Security of the Republic of the Congo (aka. Congo Brazzaville), has released a communique declaring Friday, January 2, 2026, as a one-off bridge public holiday in Congo Brazzaville. As per the Arrêté 6076/MFPTSS--CAB, signed by the Minister of Mining Industries and Geology on behalf of the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Security, who was unable to attend, "Article premier : La journée du vendredi 2 janvier 2026 est déclarée chômée et payée sur toute l'étendue du territoire national". Such year-end bridge public holidays are relatively common in the Republic of the Congo. January 2 was declared a one-off public holiday in 2015 and 2012. December 31 was declared a one-off public holiday in 2018 and 2012. And December 26 was declared a one-off public holiday in 2014.
Congo Brazzaville Declares January 2 Public Holiday Conseil des Ministres de la République du Congo (Brazzaville) The Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Security of the Republic of the Congo (aka. Congo Brazzaville), has released a communique declaring Friday, January 2, 2026, as a one-off bridge public holiday in Congo Brazzaville. As per the Arrêté 6076/MFPTSS--CAB, signed by the Minister of Mining Industries and Geology on behalf of the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Security, who was unable to attend, "Article premier : La journée du vendredi 2 janvier 2026 est déclarée chômée et payée sur toute l'étendue du territoire national". Such year-end bridge public holidays are relatively common in the Republic of the Congo. January 2 was declared a one-off public holiday in 2015 and 2012. December 31 was declared a one-off public holiday in 2018 and 2012. And December 26 was declared a one-off public holiday in 2014.
Guinea Conakry Declares January 1st Public Holiday Portail Officiel du Gouvernement de la République de Guinée (Conakry) Guinea Conakry's Minister of Labor and Civil Service, François Faya Bourouno, has issued a communique declaring Thursday, January 1st, 2026, a public holiday in Guinea Conakry on account of the upcoming New Year. As per the aforementioned communique, "the decision was taken in accordance with “the provisions of decree D/2022/0526/PRG/CNRD/SGG of November 2, 2022, amending the decree of August 1, 1995 relating to public holidays in the Republic of Guinea".
Guinea Conakry Declares January 1st Public Holiday Portail Officiel du Gouvernement de la République de Guinée (Conakry) Guinea Conakry's Minister of Labor and Civil Service, François Faya Bourouno, has issued a communique declaring Thursday, January 1st, 2026, a public holiday in Guinea Conakry on account of the upcoming New Year. As per the aforementioned communique, "the decision was taken in accordance with “the provisions of decree D/2022/0526/PRG/CNRD/SGG of November 2, 2022, amending the decree of August 1, 1995 relating to public holidays in the Republic of Guinea".
Malaysia Confirms Day In Lieu Public Holidays February 2 and 3 Bernama News Agency (Johor Baru) The Peninsular Malaysia Labour Department has announced that the February 1st Federal Territory Day is categorized as a mandatory public holiday under labour regulations in the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Labuan, and that "since Feb 1 falls on a Sunday, employers who designate Sunday as the weekly rest day must provide a replacement holiday on the following working day (Monday)", adding that "where both holidays overlap, employers are required to grant a replacement day off on Tuesday (Feb 3) for Thaipusam". Recall that, last week, we had reported that in 2026 the Malaysian Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, and Labuan, would get a second day in lieu public holiday on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, due to the 2026 Thaipusam public holiday falling on the same date (and a Sunday) as Federal Territory Day. In 2022, under similar circumstances, when the public holiday for Chinese New Year and the regional public holiday for Federal Territory Day overlapped, Malaysia's Ministry of Human Resources had issued a statement to the effect that employers of the private sector in the federal territories of Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, and Labuan, should give one extra day for a paid public holiday, on February 3, 2022 (as well as February 2).
Malaysia Confirms Day In Lieu Public Holidays February 2 and 3 Bernama News Agency (Johor Baru) The Peninsular Malaysia Labour Department has announced that the February 1st Federal Territory Day is categorized as a mandatory public holiday under labour regulations in the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Labuan, and that "since Feb 1 falls on a Sunday, employers who designate Sunday as the weekly rest day must provide a replacement holiday on the following working day (Monday)", adding that "where both holidays overlap, employers are required to grant a replacement day off on Tuesday (Feb 3) for Thaipusam". Recall that, last week, we had reported that in 2026 the Malaysian Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, and Labuan, would get a second day in lieu public holiday on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, due to the 2026 Thaipusam public holiday falling on the same date (and a Sunday) as Federal Territory Day. In 2022, under similar circumstances, when the public holiday for Chinese New Year and the regional public holiday for Federal Territory Day overlapped, Malaysia's Ministry of Human Resources had issued a statement to the effect that employers of the private sector in the federal territories of Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, and Labuan, should give one extra day for a paid public holiday, on February 3, 2022 (as well as February 2).
Maldives 2026 Bank Holidays Released Maldives Monetary Authority (Male) The Maldives Monetary Authority (the Maldives' Central Bank) has published the list of 2026 bank holidays in the Maldives. As usual, the aforementioned announcement states that "The bank holidays are in line with the public holidays; however, if the number of consecutive public holidays exceed more than 5 days, the 6th day may be a working day for MMA and banks.". In addition to the list of Maldives public holidays, there is a year-end bank holiday ("MMA and banks will be closed for the general public on the last working day of the calendar year."). Interestingly, the list of 2026 bank holidays, though it follows the government's list of day in lieu public holidays in most cases, does not list the August 16, 2026, public holiday "Due to National Day falling on a holiday". The Maldives observe a Friday-Saturday weekend. Recall that the reason for the footnote about the number of consecutive public holidays not to exceed more than 5 days, is due to the December 2023 declaration by Maldives' President, Mohamed Muizzu, of the last 10 days of the month of Ramadan as public holidays, beginning in 2024, as he had promised during the recent presidential campaign of the summer of 2023, ("given the Maldivian people are Muslims, all affairs of the nation must be based on the Islamic faith").
Maldives 2026 Bank Holidays Released Maldives Monetary Authority (Male) The Maldives Monetary Authority (the Maldives' Central Bank) has published the list of 2026 bank holidays in the Maldives. As usual, the aforementioned announcement states that "The bank holidays are in line with the public holidays; however, if the number of consecutive public holidays exceed more than 5 days, the 6th day may be a working day for MMA and banks.". In addition to the list of Maldives public holidays, there is a year-end bank holiday ("MMA and banks will be closed for the general public on the last working day of the calendar year."). Interestingly, the list of 2026 bank holidays, though it follows the government's list of day in lieu public holidays in most cases, does not list the August 16, 2026, public holiday "Due to National Day falling on a holiday". The Maldives observe a Friday-Saturday weekend. Recall that the reason for the footnote about the number of consecutive public holidays not to exceed more than 5 days, is due to the December 2023 declaration by Maldives' President, Mohamed Muizzu, of the last 10 days of the month of Ramadan as public holidays, beginning in 2024, as he had promised during the recent presidential campaign of the summer of 2023, ("given the Maldivian people are Muslims, all affairs of the nation must be based on the Islamic faith").
Mali Extends New Year 2026 Public Holidays Primature Portail Officiel du Gouvernement du Mali (Bamako) Mali's ministre du Travail, de la Fonction Publique et du Dialogue Social, Mamadou Konta, has issued the communiqué No.2025-000026/MTFPDS-SG declaring Thursday and Friday, January 1 and 2, 2026, as nationwide public holidays. As per the aforementioned communique, "En application des dispositions de la Loi n°05-040 du 22 juillet 2005 relative aux fêtes légales en République du Mali, les journées du jeudi 1 janvier, jour de l'an, et du vendredi 02 janvier 2026, sont chômées et payées sur toute l’étendue du territoire national.". Recall that, last week, Minister Konta had similarly issued a communiqué declaring Thursday and Friday, December 25 and 26, 2025, as nationwide public holidays on account of Christmas.
Mali Extends New Year 2026 Public Holidays Primature Portail Officiel du Gouvernement du Mali (Bamako) Mali's ministre du Travail, de la Fonction Publique et du Dialogue Social, Mamadou Konta, has issued the communiqué No.2025-000026/MTFPDS-SG declaring Thursday and Friday, January 1 and 2, 2026, as nationwide public holidays. As per the aforementioned communique, "En application des dispositions de la Loi n°05-040 du 22 juillet 2005 relative aux fêtes légales en République du Mali, les journées du jeudi 1 janvier, jour de l'an, et du vendredi 02 janvier 2026, sont chômées et payées sur toute l’étendue du territoire national.". Recall that, last week, Minister Konta had similarly issued a communiqué declaring Thursday and Friday, December 25 and 26, 2025, as nationwide public holidays on account of Christmas.
Mauritania Declares January 2 Public Holiday Mauritanian News Agency (Noakchott) The Presidency of the Republic of Mauritania has released a communiqué de la Présidence declaring Friday, January 2, 2026, as a compensatory non-working public holiday in Mauritania, leading to a 4-day sequence of public holidays, when taking into account the Saturday-Sunday weekends of Mauritania. Mauritania changed it weekends from Saturday-Sunday to Thursday-Friday in 1983 and then to Friday-Saturday weekends in 2001, returning to Saturday-Sunday weekends in 2005, back to Friday-Saturday in 2008, and then to Saturday-Sunday in 2014. Recall that, in late 2014, the government of Mauritania had similarly declared Friday, January 2, 2015, as an additional non-working public holiday in Mauritania, but that time it was to link the annual January 1st non-working public holiday and the subsequent "fête du Maouloud" (the Prophet's Birthday) on Saturday, January 3, 2015.
Mauritania Declares January 2 Public Holiday Mauritanian News Agency (Noakchott) The Presidency of the Republic of Mauritania has released a communiqué de la Présidence declaring Friday, January 2, 2026, as a compensatory non-working public holiday in Mauritania, leading to a 4-day sequence of public holidays, when taking into account the Saturday-Sunday weekends of Mauritania. Mauritania changed it weekends from Saturday-Sunday to Thursday-Friday in 1983 and then to Friday-Saturday weekends in 2001, returning to Saturday-Sunday weekends in 2005, back to Friday-Saturday in 2008, and then to Saturday-Sunday in 2014. Recall that, in late 2014, the government of Mauritania had similarly declared Friday, January 2, 2015, as an additional non-working public holiday in Mauritania, but that time it was to link the annual January 1st non-working public holiday and the subsequent "fête du Maouloud" (the Prophet's Birthday) on Saturday, January 3, 2015.
Perlis Declares January 1st Public Holiday Bernama News Agency (Kangar) The Menteri Besar of the Malaysian State of Perlis, Abu Bakar Hamzah, has announced that Thursday, January 1st, 2026, would be an exceptional public holiday for the New Year 2026 in the State of Perlis, in accordance with the Public Holidays Act 1951 (Act 369), a decision made with the consent of the Raja of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Putra Jamalullail. As per the aforementioned announcement, "The special public holiday is a gesture of appreciation to all civil servants and the people of Perlis for their support and involvement in making the carnival a success. It is also hoped that the announcement will ease public arrangements, allowing more people to attend and enliven the celebration while planning their activities more effectively". Recall that, last year, the then Menteri Besar of the Malaysian State of Perlis, Mohd Shukri bin Ramli, had similarly announced that Wednesday, January 1st, 2025, would be an exceptional public holiday for the New Year 2025 in the State of Perlis ("It is hereby informed that after obtaining the consent of His Majesty Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Ibni Almarhum Tuanku Syed Putra Jamalullail, Raja of Perlis, the Perlis State Government is pleased to declare Wednesday, 1 January 2025, corresponding to 1 Rejab 1446H, as a Public Holiday in conjunction with the 2025 New Year Celebration at the Perlis State level and the blessed date of 1 Rejab 1446H."). New Year is usually not an annual public holiday in the Malaysian states of Johor, Kedah, Kelantan, Perlis, and Terengganu, and was not listed as such for Perlis in the Federal Public Holidays Schedule 2026 (Jadual Hari Kelepasan Am Persekutuan 2026) and State Public Holiday Schedule 2026 (Jadual Hari Kelepasan Am Negeri 2026) containing the list of official national non-working public holidays in Malaysia for the calendar year 2026 as well as the state-specific regional non-working public holidays in Malaysia for the calendar year 2026.
Perlis Declares January 1st Public Holiday Bernama News Agency (Kangar) The Menteri Besar of the Malaysian State of Perlis, Abu Bakar Hamzah, has announced that Thursday, January 1st, 2026, would be an exceptional public holiday for the New Year 2026 in the State of Perlis, in accordance with the Public Holidays Act 1951 (Act 369), a decision made with the consent of the Raja of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Putra Jamalullail. As per the aforementioned announcement, "The special public holiday is a gesture of appreciation to all civil servants and the people of Perlis for their support and involvement in making the carnival a success. It is also hoped that the announcement will ease public arrangements, allowing more people to attend and enliven the celebration while planning their activities more effectively". Recall that, last year, the then Menteri Besar of the Malaysian State of Perlis, Mohd Shukri bin Ramli, had similarly announced that Wednesday, January 1st, 2025, would be an exceptional public holiday for the New Year 2025 in the State of Perlis ("It is hereby informed that after obtaining the consent of His Majesty Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Ibni Almarhum Tuanku Syed Putra Jamalullail, Raja of Perlis, the Perlis State Government is pleased to declare Wednesday, 1 January 2025, corresponding to 1 Rejab 1446H, as a Public Holiday in conjunction with the 2025 New Year Celebration at the Perlis State level and the blessed date of 1 Rejab 1446H."). New Year is usually not an annual public holiday in the Malaysian states of Johor, Kedah, Kelantan, Perlis, and Terengganu, and was not listed as such for Perlis in the Federal Public Holidays Schedule 2026 (Jadual Hari Kelepasan Am Persekutuan 2026) and State Public Holiday Schedule 2026 (Jadual Hari Kelepasan Am Negeri 2026) containing the list of official national non-working public holidays in Malaysia for the calendar year 2026 as well as the state-specific regional non-working public holidays in Malaysia for the calendar year 2026.
Slovenia To Consider August 7 National Holiday Slovenska tiskovna agencija (Ljubljana) A group of coalition MPs in Slovenia's parliament has filed a proposal under which August 7 would be declared Triglav Day in honour of Mount Triglav, Slovenia's highest mountain and a national symbol. Recall that, earlier this year, the Government of Slovenia released an updated list of its National holidays and other work-free days which included November 10, henceforth to be observed as Science Day, a new national holiday in Slovenia.
Slovenia To Consider August 7 National Holiday Slovenska tiskovna agencija (Ljubljana) A group of coalition MPs in Slovenia's parliament has filed a proposal under which August 7 would be declared Triglav Day in honour of Mount Triglav, Slovenia's highest mountain and a national symbol. Recall that, earlier this year, the Government of Slovenia released an updated list of its National holidays and other work-free days which included November 10, henceforth to be observed as Science Day, a new national holiday in Slovenia.
Sri Lanka Could Will 2026 Vesak Full Moon Poya Day Public Holiday The Gazette of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka (Colombo) The Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government of Sri Lanka has announced that the Vesak Full Moon Poya Day for 2026 will be revised (most likely to May 30th) as per the recent request made by the Chief Prelates of Sri Lanka’s three Buddhist Chapters. As per Minister Chandana Abeyratne, "the revised decision will be officially announced in due course". Recall that, earlier this week, we reported that the Chief Prelates of Sri Lanka’s three Buddhist Chapters had sent a letter to Sri Lanka's President, Anura Kumara Dissanayake, requesting that the date of the 2026 Vesak Full Moon Poya Day public holiday be revised, from May 1st to May 30th when the auspicious Visa Nakath falls. The dates of the 2026 Vesak Poya Day and Adhi Poson Poya Day were listed in last spring's Gazette notification 2438/22, authorized and signed by Sri Lanka's Minister of Public Administration, Provincial Councils, and Local Government, Dr. A.H.M.H. Abayarathna, under Section 04 of the Holidays Act No. 29 of 1971, in the Gazette of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka Could Will 2026 Vesak Full Moon Poya Day Public Holiday The Gazette of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka (Colombo) The Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government of Sri Lanka has announced that the Vesak Full Moon Poya Day for 2026 will be revised (most likely to May 30th) as per the recent request made by the Chief Prelates of Sri Lanka’s three Buddhist Chapters. As per Minister Chandana Abeyratne, "the revised decision will be officially announced in due course". Recall that, earlier this week, we reported that the Chief Prelates of Sri Lanka’s three Buddhist Chapters had sent a letter to Sri Lanka's President, Anura Kumara Dissanayake, requesting that the date of the 2026 Vesak Full Moon Poya Day public holiday be revised, from May 1st to May 30th when the auspicious Visa Nakath falls. The dates of the 2026 Vesak Poya Day and Adhi Poson Poya Day were listed in last spring's Gazette notification 2438/22, authorized and signed by Sri Lanka's Minister of Public Administration, Provincial Councils, and Local Government, Dr. A.H.M.H. Abayarathna, under Section 04 of the Holidays Act No. 29 of 1971, in the Gazette of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka.
Togo Declares January 2 Public Holiday Primature du Togo (Lome) Togo's Minister of Public Service Reform, Labor and Social Dialogue, Christian Trimua, has declared Fiday, January 2, 2026, as a paid public holiday for both the public and private sectors "to allow people to extend the New Year festivities in a peaceful atmosphere". January 2nd has often been declared as a one-off public holiday in Togo. Last year, no such announcement was made during the New Year address by Togolese President, Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé. But Tuesday, January 2, 2024, as well as Monday, January 2, 2023, and Thursday, January 2, 2020, and Monday, January 2, 2017, and Friday, January 2, 2015, and Monday, January 2, 2012, were all declared one-off public holidays at the last minute. Monday, January 3, 2022, was also declared a one-off public holiday.
Togo Declares January 2 Public Holiday Primature du Togo (Lome) Togo's Minister of Public Service Reform, Labor and Social Dialogue, Christian Trimua, has declared Fiday, January 2, 2026, as a paid public holiday for both the public and private sectors "to allow people to extend the New Year festivities in a peaceful atmosphere". January 2nd has often been declared as a one-off public holiday in Togo. Last year, no such announcement was made during the New Year address by Togolese President, Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé. But Tuesday, January 2, 2024, as well as Monday, January 2, 2023, and Thursday, January 2, 2020, and Monday, January 2, 2017, and Friday, January 2, 2015, and Monday, January 2, 2012, were all declared one-off public holidays at the last minute. Monday, January 3, 2022, was also declared a one-off public holiday.
Bangladesh Declares December 31 Bank Holiday The Central Bank of the People's Republic of Bangladesh (Dhaka) The Department off-Side Supervision of Bangladesh's Central Bank has sent a circular to the Managing Directors and Chief Executives of all banks declaring a one-off bank holiday on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, following the government’s declaration of a public holiday in honor of the late former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson, Begum Khaleda Zia. The aforementioned circular makes reference to the Government of Bangladesh, earlier today, declaring tomorrow, Wednesday, December 31, 2025, as a general public holiday on the day of the Namaz-e-Janaza in relation to the recent death of three-time former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia.
Bangladesh Declares December 31 Bank Holiday The Central Bank of the People's Republic of Bangladesh (Dhaka) The Department off-Side Supervision of Bangladesh's Central Bank has sent a circular to the Managing Directors and Chief Executives of all banks declaring a one-off bank holiday on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, following the government’s declaration of a public holiday in honor of the late former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson, Begum Khaleda Zia. The aforementioned circular makes reference to the Government of Bangladesh, earlier today, declaring tomorrow, Wednesday, December 31, 2025, as a general public holiday on the day of the Namaz-e-Janaza in relation to the recent death of three-time former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia.
Bangladesh Declares December 31 Public Holiday Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) The Government of Bangladesh has declared tomorrow, Wednesday, December 31, 2025, as a general public holiday on the day of the Namaz-e-Janaza in relation to the recent death of three-time former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia.
Bangladesh Declares December 31 Public Holiday Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) The Government of Bangladesh has declared tomorrow, Wednesday, December 31, 2025, as a general public holiday on the day of the Namaz-e-Janaza in relation to the recent death of three-time former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia.
Chandigarh 2026 Public Holidays Announced Government of Chandigarh (Chandigarh) The Government of India's Union Territory of Chandigarh has announced the list of 2025 public holidays in Chandigarh in the Government vide Notification No.6/1/1-1H(I)-2025/17488. The aforementioned vide notification, signed by the Home Secretary's Superintendent of Coordination, Mandip Singh Brar, contains the following sections; Public Holidays in all the Public Offices under the Chandigarh Administration during the calendar year 2026 (Schedule I), Restricted Holidays during the Calendar Year 2026 (Schedule II), and Public Holidays in the Union Territory of Chandigarh during the calendar year 2026 within the meaning of Section 25 of the Negotiable Instrument Act, 1881 (Schedule III). Interestingly, the vide Notification No.6/1/1-1H(I)-2025/17488 switches a few holidays from government only to general holidays, and even declares Govardhan Pooja as a public holiday, except for the government sector. Both Schedules I and III have the footnote that the "Holiday on account of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji birthday will be declared as announced by the Government of Punjab". Last year, the same footnote appeared and eventually, on January 5th, the Government of Punjab declared Monday, January 6, 2025, as a public holiday under the terms of the Negotiable Instruments Act 1881, to mark the birth anniversary of the 10th Sikh Guru Guru Gobind Singh.
Chandigarh 2026 Public Holidays Announced Government of Chandigarh (Chandigarh) The Government of India's Union Territory of Chandigarh has announced the list of 2025 public holidays in Chandigarh in the Government vide Notification No.6/1/1-1H(I)-2025/17488. The aforementioned vide notification, signed by the Home Secretary's Superintendent of Coordination, Mandip Singh Brar, contains the following sections; Public Holidays in all the Public Offices under the Chandigarh Administration during the calendar year 2026 (Schedule I), Restricted Holidays during the Calendar Year 2026 (Schedule II), and Public Holidays in the Union Territory of Chandigarh during the calendar year 2026 within the meaning of Section 25 of the Negotiable Instrument Act, 1881 (Schedule III). Interestingly, the vide Notification No.6/1/1-1H(I)-2025/17488 switches a few holidays from government only to general holidays, and even declares Govardhan Pooja as a public holiday, except for the government sector. Both Schedules I and III have the footnote that the "Holiday on account of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji birthday will be declared as announced by the Government of Punjab". Last year, the same footnote appeared and eventually, on January 5th, the Government of Punjab declared Monday, January 6, 2025, as a public holiday under the terms of the Negotiable Instruments Act 1881, to mark the birth anniversary of the 10th Sikh Guru Guru Gobind Singh.
Dominican Republic Moves January 6 Public Holiday Ministerio de Trabajo República Dominicana (Santo Domingo) The Ministry of Labour of the Dominican Republic has issued an official communiqué confirming that, as per the current legislation on public holidays in the Dominican Republic, the upcoming Día de los Santos Reyes annual non-working public holiday would be observed, on Monday, January 5, 2026, and that "the working sector must return to its daily tasks on Tuesday, January 6th". The aforementioned announcement is in line with the 1997 "Ley No. 139-97 mediante la cual los días feriados del calendario que coincidan con los días martes y miércoles, jueves o viernes serán trasladados de fecha" which excludes the following public holidays from its scope: January 1st, January 21, February 27, August 16 (on any inauguration year), September 24, and December 25. Recall that, the January 6 Día de los Santos Reyes public holiday, which remained fixed in 2024 and 2025, was also moved in past years; to January 4 in 2021, January 10 in 2022, and January 9 in 2023.
Dominican Republic Moves January 6 Public Holiday Ministerio de Trabajo República Dominicana (Santo Domingo) The Ministry of Labour of the Dominican Republic has issued an official communiqué confirming that, as per the current legislation on public holidays in the Dominican Republic, the upcoming Día de los Santos Reyes annual non-working public holiday would be observed, on Monday, January 5, 2026, and that "the working sector must return to its daily tasks on Tuesday, January 6th". The aforementioned announcement is in line with the 1997 "Ley No. 139-97 mediante la cual los días feriados del calendario que coincidan con los días martes y miércoles, jueves o viernes serán trasladados de fecha" which excludes the following public holidays from its scope: January 1st, January 21, February 27, August 16 (on any inauguration year), September 24, and December 25. Recall that, the January 6 Día de los Santos Reyes public holiday, which remained fixed in 2024 and 2025, was also moved in past years; to January 4 in 2021, January 10 in 2022, and January 9 in 2023.
Egypt Decrees Religious Public Holidays For Christian Workers The Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt (Cairo) Egyptian Minister of Labour, Mohamed Gobran, issued a ministerial decree defining the religious public holidays granted to Christian employees, as per current Labour Law. As per the aforementioned announcement, Christian employees are entitled to paid leave on their religious feasts in addition to the holidays stipulated in previous cabinet and ministerial decisions. More specifically, the recognized religious holidays for Coptic Orthodox Christians include Christmas, Epiphany, Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, and Easter, while for Coptic Catholic and Protestant Christians are entitled to paid leave on New Year’s Day, Christmas, and Easter. The decree also allows Christian employees to start work at 10 am on Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, and Epiphany, subject to workplace regulations. Recall that Coptic Christmas (January 7th) became an official public holiday in 2002 (effective in 2003), in addition to Coptic Easter and the spring festival of Sham El-Nessim.
Egypt Decrees Religious Public Holidays For Christian Workers The Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt (Cairo) Egyptian Minister of Labour, Mohamed Gobran, issued a ministerial decree defining the religious public holidays granted to Christian employees, as per current Labour Law. As per the aforementioned announcement, Christian employees are entitled to paid leave on their religious feasts in addition to the holidays stipulated in previous cabinet and ministerial decisions. More specifically, the recognized religious holidays for Coptic Orthodox Christians include Christmas, Epiphany, Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, and Easter, while for Coptic Catholic and Protestant Christians are entitled to paid leave on New Year’s Day, Christmas, and Easter. The decree also allows Christian employees to start work at 10 am on Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, and Epiphany, subject to workplace regulations. Recall that Coptic Christmas (January 7th) became an official public holiday in 2002 (effective in 2003), in addition to Coptic Easter and the spring festival of Sham El-Nessim.
Myanmar Amends 2026 Public Holidays Again Ministry of Foreign Affairs Republic of the Union of Myanmar (Yangoon) The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the government of Myanmar has announced that the schedule of 2026 public holidays and working days had been modified, relative to the extension of 2025 public holidays declared in late 2024. In that December 2024 announcement, the Government of Myanmar had announced continuous public days (additional bridge public holidays) for the end of 2024 and the year 2025, to be compensated by the declaration of the Saturdays closest to these extended holidays as substitute working days. In that context, the recent bridge public holiday of Friday, December 26, 2025, was to be compensated by the declaration of Saturday, January 3, 2026, as a working day. However, "as 3 January 2026 (Saturday) falls between the international New Year public holiday and the Independence Day holiday, coincides with the international New Year holiday period, and occurs in the lead-up to Independence Day, the substitute working day has been rescheduled to 10 January 2026". Recall that, at the beginning in 2025, 2 annual public holidays were added to Myanmar's list of public holidays; International New Year Day ("to align Myanmar with international practices") and Chinese New Year ("in order to strengthen its Paukphaw (fraternal) friendship with China").
Myanmar Amends 2026 Public Holidays Again Ministry of Foreign Affairs Republic of the Union of Myanmar (Yangoon) The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the government of Myanmar has announced that the schedule of 2026 public holidays and working days had been modified, relative to the extension of 2025 public holidays declared in late 2024. In that December 2024 announcement, the Government of Myanmar had announced continuous public days (additional bridge public holidays) for the end of 2024 and the year 2025, to be compensated by the declaration of the Saturdays closest to these extended holidays as substitute working days. In that context, the recent bridge public holiday of Friday, December 26, 2025, was to be compensated by the declaration of Saturday, January 3, 2026, as a working day. However, "as 3 January 2026 (Saturday) falls between the international New Year public holiday and the Independence Day holiday, coincides with the international New Year holiday period, and occurs in the lead-up to Independence Day, the substitute working day has been rescheduled to 10 January 2026". Recall that, at the beginning in 2025, 2 annual public holidays were added to Myanmar's list of public holidays; International New Year Day ("to align Myanmar with international practices") and Chinese New Year ("in order to strengthen its Paukphaw (fraternal) friendship with China").
Paraguay Declares December 31 Public Sector Holiday Portal Paraguayo de Noticias (PPN) The President of Paraguay, Santiago Peña, has issued the Decree No.5211 declaring Wednesday, December 31, 2025, as a public sector holiday for all employees of the central government and decentralized entities "to facilitate preparations and travel for state workers during the end-of-year celebrations". Recall that, early last week, President Peña had similarly announced a public sector holiday on Wednesday, December 24, 2025. And, late last month, President Peña issued the Decree No. 5040 declaring Friday, December 26, 2025, as a one-off public holiday for both the public and private sectors. A year ago, President Peña had released the executive decree No.3131 declaring Tuesday, December 24, and Tuesday, December 31, 2024, as public sector holidays in Paraguay.
Paraguay Declares December 31 Public Sector Holiday Portal Paraguayo de Noticias (PPN) The President of Paraguay, Santiago Peña, has issued the Decree No.5211 declaring Wednesday, December 31, 2025, as a public sector holiday for all employees of the central government and decentralized entities "to facilitate preparations and travel for state workers during the end-of-year celebrations". Recall that, early last week, President Peña had similarly announced a public sector holiday on Wednesday, December 24, 2025. And, late last month, President Peña issued the Decree No. 5040 declaring Friday, December 26, 2025, as a one-off public holiday for both the public and private sectors. A year ago, President Peña had released the executive decree No.3131 declaring Tuesday, December 24, and Tuesday, December 31, 2024, as public sector holidays in Paraguay.
Algeria Declares New Year 2026 Public Holiday Direction Générale de la Fonction Publique (Algiers) The Algerian Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security and the Directorate General of the Civil Service and Administrative Reform have jointly announced that Thursday, January 1, 2026, had been declared as a paid public holiday in Algeria on account of the upcoming Western New Year 2026. As per the aforementioned announcement, "A l’occasion du nouvel an et conformément à la loi numéro 63-278 du 26 juillet 1963, modifiée et complétée, fixant la liste des fêtes légales, la journée du jeudi 1er janvier 2026 est chômée et payée pour l’ensemble des personnels des institutions et administrations publiques, des établissements et offices publics et privés, ainsi qu’aux personnels des entreprises publiques et privées, tous secteurs et statuts juridiques confondus, y compris les personnels payés à l’heure ou à la journée".
Algeria Declares New Year 2026 Public Holiday Direction Générale de la Fonction Publique (Algiers) The Algerian Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security and the Directorate General of the Civil Service and Administrative Reform have jointly announced that Thursday, January 1, 2026, had been declared as a paid public holiday in Algeria on account of the upcoming Western New Year 2026. As per the aforementioned announcement, "A l’occasion du nouvel an et conformément à la loi numéro 63-278 du 26 juillet 1963, modifiée et complétée, fixant la liste des fêtes légales, la journée du jeudi 1er janvier 2026 est chômée et payée pour l’ensemble des personnels des institutions et administrations publiques, des établissements et offices publics et privés, ainsi qu’aux personnels des entreprises publiques et privées, tous secteurs et statuts juridiques confondus, y compris les personnels payés à l’heure ou à la journée".
Bolivia Declares January 2 Public Holiday Ministerio de Trabajo, Empleo y Previsión Social (La Paz) The Bolivian Minister of Labor, Edgar Morales, has announced that Friday, January 2, 2026, had been declared a one-off bridge public holiday "to promote tourism and generate income". Minister Morales also added that January 22nd would remain in effect as a national holiday. Recall that, earlier this month, the Bolivian Ministry of Labor had issued the communique DGTHSO-044/2025 declaring Thursday and Friday, December 25 and 26, 2025, as national public holidays. The communique DGTHSO-044/2025 also went on to announce that December 24 and 31, 2025, would be continuous working days in the public sector, meaning that there was to be a public sector holiday beginning at 13:00 (1pm) on both these dates. As for the January 22 public holiday, the Bolivian Government had declared Friday, January 22, 2010, as a one-off national public holiday, to coincide with Juan Evo Morales Ayma's second inauguration as President of Bolivia. But, later that same year, the Decreto Supremo 405 (Gaceta Nro.97NEC), specified that January 22 was to become an annual national non-working public holiday ("se declara feriado con suspensión de actividades públicas y privadas a nivel nacional el día 22 de enero de cada año") to be officially named Día de la Fundación del Estado Plurinacional de Bolivia.
Bolivia Declares January 2 Public Holiday Ministerio de Trabajo, Empleo y Previsión Social (La Paz) The Bolivian Minister of Labor, Edgar Morales, has announced that Friday, January 2, 2026, had been declared a one-off bridge public holiday "to promote tourism and generate income". Minister Morales also added that January 22nd would remain in effect as a national holiday. Recall that, earlier this month, the Bolivian Ministry of Labor had issued the communique DGTHSO-044/2025 declaring Thursday and Friday, December 25 and 26, 2025, as national public holidays. The communique DGTHSO-044/2025 also went on to announce that December 24 and 31, 2025, would be continuous working days in the public sector, meaning that there was to be a public sector holiday beginning at 13:00 (1pm) on both these dates. As for the January 22 public holiday, the Bolivian Government had declared Friday, January 22, 2010, as a one-off national public holiday, to coincide with Juan Evo Morales Ayma's second inauguration as President of Bolivia. But, later that same year, the Decreto Supremo 405 (Gaceta Nro.97NEC), specified that January 22 was to become an annual national non-working public holiday ("se declara feriado con suspensión de actividades públicas y privadas a nivel nacional el día 22 de enero de cada año") to be officially named Día de la Fundación del Estado Plurinacional de Bolivia.
Bosnian Public Holidays January 1 and 2 Federacija Bosna i Hercegovina News (Sarajevo) The Federal Ministry of Labor and Social Policy of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (FBiH) has announced that "in accordance with the Law on Holidays, the New Year is a holiday in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and is celebrated for two days; January 1 and 2".
Bosnian Public Holidays January 1 and 2 Federacija Bosna i Hercegovina News (Sarajevo) The Federal Ministry of Labor and Social Policy of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (FBiH) has announced that "in accordance with the Law on Holidays, the New Year is a holiday in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and is celebrated for two days; January 1 and 2".
Cuba Announces Year-End 2025-2026 Public Holidays Órgano Oficial del Comité Central del Partido Comunista de Cuba (Granma) The Cuban government has announced that the upcoming year end public holidays would be December 31, 2025, as well as January 1 and 2, 2026. As per the aforementioned announcement, "according to what is established by Law 116 of December 20, 2013, Labor Code, December 31 and January 2 of each year are public holidays, and January 1st is declared a national commemoration day". Recall that, last year, the Cuban government had additionally declared Wednesday, January 3, 2024, as a one-off national public holiday "recognizing the effort of the populace throughout the year 2023" in the Decree 100 as announced by the same Secretary Guerra, and which was implemented in the Resolution 20 of the Minister of Labor and Social Security. In a similar manner, January 3 was declared a one-off public holiday in 2022, but on that occasion it was due to both January 1 and 2 falling on a weekend ("taking into account the effort made in the current year by the people, protagonists of the victories against aggressions and the pandemic, and that the first and second January holidays are a weekend").
Cuba Announces Year-End 2025-2026 Public Holidays Órgano Oficial del Comité Central del Partido Comunista de Cuba (Granma) The Cuban government has announced that the upcoming year end public holidays would be December 31, 2025, as well as January 1 and 2, 2026. As per the aforementioned announcement, "according to what is established by Law 116 of December 20, 2013, Labor Code, December 31 and January 2 of each year are public holidays, and January 1st is declared a national commemoration day". Recall that, last year, the Cuban government had additionally declared Wednesday, January 3, 2024, as a one-off national public holiday "recognizing the effort of the populace throughout the year 2023" in the Decree 100 as announced by the same Secretary Guerra, and which was implemented in the Resolution 20 of the Minister of Labor and Social Security. In a similar manner, January 3 was declared a one-off public holiday in 2022, but on that occasion it was due to both January 1 and 2 falling on a weekend ("taking into account the effort made in the current year by the people, protagonists of the victories against aggressions and the pandemic, and that the first and second January holidays are a weekend").
Djibouti 2026 Public Holidays Announced Journal Officiel de la République de Djibouti (Djibouti) The Ministry of the Interior of the government of Djibouti has released the official list of lay and religious non-working public holidays, and their duration, for the calendar year 2026 in the Circulaire No.693/MI (Circulaire relative au calendrier des fêtes légales et Musulmanes de l'Année 2026). Until the early 2010s, Djibouti's list of non-working public holidays, and their duration, was based on the Libyan LCRSS Muslim calendar. But, since then, the announced dates seem to follow the more consensual Saudi Umm al-Qora Muslim calendar.
Djibouti 2026 Public Holidays Announced Journal Officiel de la République de Djibouti (Djibouti) The Ministry of the Interior of the government of Djibouti has released the official list of lay and religious non-working public holidays, and their duration, for the calendar year 2026 in the Circulaire No.693/MI (Circulaire relative au calendrier des fêtes légales et Musulmanes de l'Année 2026). Until the early 2010s, Djibouti's list of non-working public holidays, and their duration, was based on the Libyan LCRSS Muslim calendar. But, since then, the announced dates seem to follow the more consensual Saudi Umm al-Qora Muslim calendar.
Laos 2026 Public Holidays Announced The Government of the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Ventiane) The Prime Minister’s Office of the government of Laos has released its annual official list of non-working public holidays in Laos for the upcoming calendar year 2026. This year, for the third consecutive year, substitute holidays stemming from the public holidays falling on a weekend in 2026 are listed. In the past, the Lao New Year public holidays have later been extended by a day, as most recently happened in 2022, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2013, and 2012.
Laos 2026 Public Holidays Announced The Government of the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Ventiane) The Prime Minister’s Office of the government of Laos has released its annual official list of non-working public holidays in Laos for the upcoming calendar year 2026. This year, for the third consecutive year, substitute holidays stemming from the public holidays falling on a weekend in 2026 are listed. In the past, the Lao New Year public holidays have later been extended by a day, as most recently happened in 2022, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2013, and 2012.
Madhya Pradesh 2026 Public Holidays Announced Government of Madhya Pradesh (Bhopal) The General Administration Department of the Government of India's State of Madhya Pradesh has issued the vide Notification No.364 containing the annual list of public holidays in Madhya Pradesh for the upcoming calendar year 2026. The aforementioned vide notification lists Gazetted Holidays, Restricted Holidays, and Local Holidays, and as usual, dates that are annual public holidays, but that occur on a Saturday or Sunday in 2026 (such as Eid-ul-Fitr, Independence Day, Sant Ravidas Jayanti, Mahashivratri, Diwali, and Tribal Pride Day), are not listed as public holidays in the aforementioned vide notification.
Madhya Pradesh 2026 Public Holidays Announced Government of Madhya Pradesh (Bhopal) The General Administration Department of the Government of India's State of Madhya Pradesh has issued the vide Notification No.364 containing the annual list of public holidays in Madhya Pradesh for the upcoming calendar year 2026. The aforementioned vide notification lists Gazetted Holidays, Restricted Holidays, and Local Holidays, and as usual, dates that are annual public holidays, but that occur on a Saturday or Sunday in 2026 (such as Eid-ul-Fitr, Independence Day, Sant Ravidas Jayanti, Mahashivratri, Diwali, and Tribal Pride Day), are not listed as public holidays in the aforementioned vide notification.
Paraguay Bank Holiday December 31 Banco Central del Paraguay (Asunción) Paraguay's Central Bank has announced that Wednesday, December 31, 2025, would be a bank holiday throughout Paraguay, on account of the Executive Decree No. 9131 dated 23.12.1949 which declares a bank holiday on the last working day of each year ("se declare feriado bancario el último día hábil del año"). As per the aforementioned announcement, "Banks and other financial institutions will operate as normal until Tuesday, December 30, and will return to their usual activities on Friday, January 2, 2026". Recall that, a couple of years ago, Paraguay's Central Bank had declared Friday, December 29, 2023, as a bank holiday throughout Paraguay, as that date was the last working day of 2023.
Paraguay Bank Holiday December 31 Banco Central del Paraguay (Asunción) Paraguay's Central Bank has announced that Wednesday, December 31, 2025, would be a bank holiday throughout Paraguay, on account of the Executive Decree No. 9131 dated 23.12.1949 which declares a bank holiday on the last working day of each year ("se declare feriado bancario el último día hábil del año"). As per the aforementioned announcement, "Banks and other financial institutions will operate as normal until Tuesday, December 30, and will return to their usual activities on Friday, January 2, 2026". Recall that, a couple of years ago, Paraguay's Central Bank had declared Friday, December 29, 2023, as a bank holiday throughout Paraguay, as that date was the last working day of 2023.
Qatar Declares January 1 Bank Holiday Qatar Central Bank (QCB) Qatar's Central Bank (QCB) has announced that Thursday, January 1, 2026, had been declared an official bank holiday for all financial institutions in Qatar on the occasion of the year-end closing, and in accordance with Article (LI) of Amiri Decree No. (57) of 2025, which outlines official working days, national occasions, and public holidays in the State of Qatar. As per the aforementioned announcement, "all banks and financial institutions will resume work on Sunday, January 4, 2026" (since 2000, weekends in Qatar are Fridays and Saturdays).
Qatar Declares January 1 Bank Holiday Qatar Central Bank (QCB) Qatar's Central Bank (QCB) has announced that Thursday, January 1, 2026, had been declared an official bank holiday for all financial institutions in Qatar on the occasion of the year-end closing, and in accordance with Article (LI) of Amiri Decree No. (57) of 2025, which outlines official working days, national occasions, and public holidays in the State of Qatar. As per the aforementioned announcement, "all banks and financial institutions will resume work on Sunday, January 4, 2026" (since 2000, weekends in Qatar are Fridays and Saturdays).
Sri Lanka Could Move 2026 Vesak Full Moon Poya Day Public Holiday To May 30 The Gazette of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka (Colombo) The Chief Prelates of Sri Lanka’s three Buddhist Chapters have sent a letter to Sri Lanka's President, Anura Kumara Dissanayake, requesting that the date of the 2026 Vesak Full Moon Poya Day public holiday be revised. As per the aforementioned letter, May 1 has been designated as Vesak Poya Day, while May 30 has been marked as Adhi Poson Poya Day, but the auspicious Visa Nakath does not fall on May 1, but it does on May 30, 2026. Therefore, in line with traditional Buddhist practice, the 2026 Vesak Full Moon Poya Day should be observed on May 30, 2026. The dates of the 2026 Vesak Poya Day and Adhi Poson Poya Day were listed in last spring's Gazette notification 2438/22, authorized and signed by Sri Lanka's Minister of Public Administration, Provincial Councils, and Local Government, Dr. A.H.M.H. Abayarathna, under Section 04 of the Holidays Act No. 29 of 1971, in the Gazette of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka Could Move 2026 Vesak Full Moon Poya Day Public Holiday To May 30 The Gazette of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka (Colombo) The Chief Prelates of Sri Lanka’s three Buddhist Chapters have sent a letter to Sri Lanka's President, Anura Kumara Dissanayake, requesting that the date of the 2026 Vesak Full Moon Poya Day public holiday be revised. As per the aforementioned letter, May 1 has been designated as Vesak Poya Day, while May 30 has been marked as Adhi Poson Poya Day, but the auspicious Visa Nakath does not fall on May 1, but it does on May 30, 2026. Therefore, in line with traditional Buddhist practice, the 2026 Vesak Full Moon Poya Day should be observed on May 30, 2026. The dates of the 2026 Vesak Poya Day and Adhi Poson Poya Day were listed in last spring's Gazette notification 2438/22, authorized and signed by Sri Lanka's Minister of Public Administration, Provincial Councils, and Local Government, Dr. A.H.M.H. Abayarathna, under Section 04 of the Holidays Act No. 29 of 1971, in the Gazette of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka.
Zambia To Declare Annual Public Holiday On December 29 Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (Lusaka) Speaking during the 34th commemoration of the declaration of Zambia as a Christian Nation, earlier today, the President of Zambia, Hakainde Hichilema, announced that his government will make December 29 a new annual public holiday to celebrate the declaration of Zambia as a Christian Nation.
Zambia To Declare Annual Public Holiday On December 29 Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (Lusaka) Speaking during the 34th commemoration of the declaration of Zambia as a Christian Nation, earlier today, the President of Zambia, Hakainde Hichilema, announced that his government will make December 29 a new annual public holiday to celebrate the declaration of Zambia as a Christian Nation.
Arunachal Pradesh Declares December 29 Public Holiday Government of Arunachal Pradesh (Itanagar) The Government of India's state of Arunachal Pradesh has declared a one-day district public holiday in East Siang on Monday, December 29, 2025, as a mark of respect to the departed late Yadap Apang, former Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Pasighat West constituency. As per the aforementioned government order issued by the General Administration (GA) Department, "all government offices, educational institutions and market establishments in East Siang district will remain closed for the day".
Arunachal Pradesh Declares December 29 Public Holiday Government of Arunachal Pradesh (Itanagar) The Government of India's state of Arunachal Pradesh has declared a one-day district public holiday in East Siang on Monday, December 29, 2025, as a mark of respect to the departed late Yadap Apang, former Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Pasighat West constituency. As per the aforementioned government order issued by the General Administration (GA) Department, "all government offices, educational institutions and market establishments in East Siang district will remain closed for the day".
Egypt Declares January 1st Bank Holiday The Central Bank of Egypt (Cairo) The Central Bank of Egypt (CBE) has announced a bank holiday on account of the upcoming celebration of the New Year. As per the aforementioned announcement, "all banks in Egypt will be off on Thursday, January 1st, in celebration of the New Year", adding that "Working in banks will resume on Sunday, January 4th".
Egypt Declares January 1st Bank Holiday The Central Bank of Egypt (Cairo) The Central Bank of Egypt (CBE) has announced a bank holiday on account of the upcoming celebration of the New Year. As per the aforementioned announcement, "all banks in Egypt will be off on Thursday, January 1st, in celebration of the New Year", adding that "Working in banks will resume on Sunday, January 4th".
Oman Announces 2026 Public Holidays Except The Eids Oman News Agency (Muscat) The Council of Ministers of Oman has approved the advance announcement, at the beginning of each Gregorian year, of the dates of national and religious holidays on an annual basis, save for the dates of the Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha holidays which shall be announced in accordance with the declarations issued by the Main Committee for Determining the start of Hijri Months. Today's announcement thus specifies the dates of HM's Accession Day, National Day, Al Isra'a Wal Miraj, Hijri New Year, and Prophet Muhammad's Birthday. Today's announcement rides roughshod over last January's Royal Decree 15/2025 Amending Some Provisions of Royal Decree 88/2022 Determining the Official Holidays (published in the Official Gazette 1581 issued on 26 January 2025), which amended the Royal Decree 88/2022 Determining the Official Holidays which had replaced the Royal Decree 56/2020 Determining the Dates of Official Holidays which in turn had replaced the Royal Decree 76/96 Determining the Dates of Official Holidays (published in Official Gazette 584 issued on 1 October 1996), which had replaced the Royal Decree 56/91 Determining the Public Holidays (Published in Official Gazette 457 issued on 15 June 1991).
Oman Announces 2026 Public Holidays Except The Eids Oman News Agency (Muscat) The Council of Ministers of Oman has approved the advance announcement, at the beginning of each Gregorian year, of the dates of national and religious holidays on an annual basis, save for the dates of the Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha holidays which shall be announced in accordance with the declarations issued by the Main Committee for Determining the start of Hijri Months. Today's announcement thus specifies the dates of HM's Accession Day, National Day, Al Isra'a Wal Miraj, Hijri New Year, and Prophet Muhammad's Birthday. Today's announcement rides roughshod over last January's Royal Decree 15/2025 Amending Some Provisions of Royal Decree 88/2022 Determining the Official Holidays (published in the Official Gazette 1581 issued on 26 January 2025), which amended the Royal Decree 88/2022 Determining the Official Holidays which had replaced the Royal Decree 56/2020 Determining the Dates of Official Holidays which in turn had replaced the Royal Decree 76/96 Determining the Dates of Official Holidays (published in Official Gazette 584 issued on 1 October 1996), which had replaced the Royal Decree 56/91 Determining the Public Holidays (Published in Official Gazette 457 issued on 15 June 1991).
Mozambique Declares Public Holidays On December 31 and January 2 Agencia de Informção de Moçambique (Maputo) Mozambique's Minister of Labour, Gender and Social Action, Ivete Alane, has announced that she had declared the afternoon of Wednesday, December 31, 2025, as a one-off public sector holiday throughout the country, and that a public sector holiday had also been declared for the entire day of Friday, January 2, 2026, "to satisfy the social interest and collective well-being". The declaration of one-off non-working public holidays is a relatively common feature of Mozambique's official public holidays calendar, as Mozambique's Labour Code gives the Minister of Labour the authority to declare one-off public holidays in Mozambique. Recall that, last week, Minister Alane declared Wednesday, December 24, 2025, as a one-off public sector holiday throughout the country. And, last year, Mozambique's then Minister of Labour, Margarida Talapa, had similarly announced that, as per paragraph 2 of article 5 of the Regulation on Time Off, approved by Decree no. 7/2015 of 3 June, her Ministry had declared Tuesday, December 31, 2024, as a public sector holiday throughout the national territory, "on the occasion of preparations for the end-of-year celebrations".
Mozambique Declares Public Holidays On December 31 and January 2 Agencia de Informção de Moçambique (Maputo) Mozambique's Minister of Labour, Gender and Social Action, Ivete Alane, has announced that she had declared the afternoon of Wednesday, December 31, 2025, as a one-off public sector holiday throughout the country, and that a public sector holiday had also been declared for the entire day of Friday, January 2, 2026, "to satisfy the social interest and collective well-being". The declaration of one-off non-working public holidays is a relatively common feature of Mozambique's official public holidays calendar, as Mozambique's Labour Code gives the Minister of Labour the authority to declare one-off public holidays in Mozambique. Recall that, last week, Minister Alane declared Wednesday, December 24, 2025, as a one-off public sector holiday throughout the country. And, last year, Mozambique's then Minister of Labour, Margarida Talapa, had similarly announced that, as per paragraph 2 of article 5 of the Regulation on Time Off, approved by Decree no. 7/2015 of 3 June, her Ministry had declared Tuesday, December 31, 2024, as a public sector holiday throughout the national territory, "on the occasion of preparations for the end-of-year celebrations".
