5 Countries with the Most Public Holidays in the World

In this article, we will take a look at the 5 countries with the most public holidays in the world. If you want to read our discussion on the global variation in public holidays and the impact of holidays on work culture, you can go directly to the 25 Countries with the Most Public Holidays in the World.

5. Egypt

Total Public Holidays = 22

Egypt secures the fifth place on our list of the countries with the most public holidays in the world. Egypt observes a mix of Islamic and national holidays, like Eid celebrations, as well as Revolution Day, commemorating the 1952 revolution. Coptic Christmas is also a public holiday in the country. Approximately 10 to 15% of Egypt’s population adheres to Christianity, with the predominant denomination being Coptic Orthodox. Unlike the Gregorian calendar, which marks Christmas in December, Coptic Christmas follows the Julian calendar.

4. Sri Lanka

Total Public Holidays = 25

Sri Lanka’s major holidays include Vesak Poya, celebrating Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and death, and Independence Day, marking freedom from British rule. Meanwhile, Tamil Thai Pongal Day is a holiday that celebrates the harvest, reflecting the importance of agriculture in the country.

3. Iran

Total Public Holidays = 26

Iran celebrates Nowruz, the Persian New Year, marking the first day of spring with house cleanings and festive gatherings. Another popular holiday is Quds Day, which is a day of solidarity with Palestine. The death anniversary of Imam Khomeini is also a day of national mourning and reflection. Iran is one of the countries with the most public holidays in Asia.

2. Myanmar

Total Public Holidays = 32

As the country with the second-highest number of holidays, Myanmar’s public holidays are deeply traditional. Thingyan, the Water Festival, welcomes the Burmese New Year with water-throwing to cleanse sins. Meanwhile, Independence Day commemorates liberation from British rule with flag-raising ceremonies and cultural performances.

1. Nepal

Total Public Holidays = 39

Nepal currently holds the title for having the highest number of public holidays in the world. Nepal observes Dashain, the longest festival on the calendar, honoring the goddess Durga with rituals and family reunions. Similarly, Tihar, the festival of lights, involves decorating homes, worshiping animals, and playing Deusi-Bhailo, traditional songs and dances.

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