The organizing committee for the 53rd Eid Al Etihad (UAE National Day) celebration has announced that this year’s official ceremony will take place in Al Ain City. This year’s National Day ceremony focuses on honoring the UAE’s journey and the legacy of the founding fathers, featuring innovative storytelling mechanisms.
In the UAE, Eid Al Etihad is the official name for the National Day celebrations, marking the historic moment on December 2, 1971, when the United Arab Emirates was founded through the unification of seven emirates. The name emphasizes the theme of “Union” (Etihad), which is central to the country’s identity, symbolizing heritage, unity, strength, and national pride.
How to watch the official ceremony?
Everyone across the UAE can watch the official ceremony through the live broadcast on December 2, which will be live-streamed across local TV channels, Eid Al Etihad’s YouTube official channel, website, cinemas, and selected public areas, with viewing locations throughout the emirates to be announced soon.
“Al Ain holds significant historical importance that dates back thousands of years. It is a city where nature and heritage intertwine seamlessly, showcasing the UAE’s commitment to sustainability. Rooted in centuries-old traditions, Al Ain’s natural environment and historical landmarks are treasures of Emirati heritage,” stated Aysha Al Nuaimi, head of communications of the Organizing Committee of the 53rd Eid Al Etihad Celebration.
In recent years, Al Ain has transformed into a beacon of environmental stewardship, preserving its natural beauty while embracing progress to inspire future generations.
Al Ain stands as a meaningful symbol of Sheikh Zayed’s vision of unity and prosperity. Hence, it is where the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan began his journey as a young ruler. Known as an agricultural center for its lush oases and ancient Aflaj irrigation systems, Al Ain is also an enduring testament to the sustainable practices ingrained in Emirati heritage. Its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site highlights its ecological and historical significance, a legacy spanning over 4,000 years that continues to enrich the UAE’s cultural identity.
Celebrate UAE National Day with family
This year, bring the spirit of UAE National Day by enjoying indoor activities, transforming celebrations into a journey through the UAE’s rich heritage. Celebrate UAE National Day by diving into traditional Emirati games and interactive activities while wearing the traditional attire that showcases the UAE’s rich heritage.
Here are some engaging ideas that the organizing committee of the 53rd Eid Al Etihad celebration suggests to bring cultural learning and fun into your family celebration:
- Involve the children in drawing a large-scale map of the UAE, highlighting smaller cities, oases, mountains, and wadis. Use the opportunity to enrich their geographic knowledge and teach them more about the country’s diverse landscapes.
- Set up a traditional dance session where kids can learn and perform the Al Yowla dance, a beloved Emirati tradition. Teach them the movements, and explain the cultural significance
- Host a traditional games Al Karabi, Khoosa Boosa and Al Zubout a popular collective game.
- Create a trivia game with questions about UAE history, culture, dialect, and achievements to educate and entertain the whole family.
Read | UAE National Day: Places to visit and fireworks to watch in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah
Plan an adventure during the four-day-long break
The UAE National Day holiday offers a four-day-long break where you can enjoy several activities with family. Plan a family adventure to discover iconic traditional landmarks across the UAE, giving kids the chance to connect with the country’s rich history and culture.
You can also celebrate National Day by joining a fun and active “A Patriotic Athletic Trip”. This activity invites families and children to decorate their bicycles, scooters, or skateboards using UAE-themed ribbons and lights. It’s a joyful way to show national pride in addition to enjoying the outdoors.
You can also celebrate UAE National Day by embarking on a family camping trip to one of the UAE’s scenic spots, like Al Qudra Lakes, Liwa, Hatta, Ras Al Khaimah, Masfout, or the beaches of Fujairah. This experience invites the family to connect with nature, enjoy peaceful nights under the stars, and reflect together on the UAE’s journey and achievements.
