This year marks the UAE’s 53rd National Day (Eid Al Etihad), an occasion that reflects on the country’s journey of resilience, determination, and success. Residents will observe a two-day break for the UAE’s National Day, on December 2 and 3 (Monday and Tuesday). When clubbed with the weekend, UAE residents will be able to enjoy a four-day break, making it the perfect opportunity to enjoy a weekend getaway at the most popular destinations among UAE citizens and residents.
Why is the UAE National Day celebrated?
The UAE National Day falls on December 2. It is a vibrant, nationwide event that unites citizens, residents, and visitors alike in honoring the spirit of the UAE. But why is UAE National Day celebrated? This day commemorates the historic moment in 1971 when the seven emirates came together as a unified nation under the leadership of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
The UAE National Day embodies the enduring values of unity, resilience, and national pride that define the spirit of the nation. This day serves as a reminder of the journey that brought together the seven emirates, creating a bond of solidarity and aspirations under a unified identity.
‘Spirit of the Union’ is the official theme of the UAE’s National Day celebrations. Residents and citizens alike can enjoy several nationwide events and decorations to mark the occasion on the four-day break.
Most popular destinations from the UAE
Skyscanner, a leading global travel platform, has unveiled the latest travel insights for outbound travel from UAE, just in time for the upcoming UAE National Day long weekend. The data, analyzing flight searches from January 1, 2024, to November 22, 2024, highlights the most popular destinations and significant year-over-year (YoY) increases in search and redirect volumes, providing valuable insights for travelers planning their holiday getaways.
The data revealed a 23 percent year-on-year increase in travel searches from the UAE during October, with a notable spike in searches for travel dates around the National Day holiday. Redirects from Skyscanner to airline and travel booking sites have also increased by 14 percent in November compared to the same period last year, indicating a strong interest in travel.
The data also shows a significant spike in last-minute travel plans, with an 86 percent increase in redirects on November 25, 2024, compared to the previous day. Most travelers are planning to depart on November 29, 2024, taking advantage of the long weekend to explore new destinations and enjoy a break.
According to Skyscanner’s latest data, UAE travelers are eagerly planning their UAE National Day weekend getaways. Here is a list of the most popular destinations to travel to during the long four-day holiday:
Mumbai and Kochi, India
Mumbai and Kochi topped the list this year for their vibrant atmosphere, rich cultural diversity, and convenient travel times.
If you plan to visit Mumbai this UAE National Day, the Mumbai Taj is a stunning must-see destination. The Mumbai Taj is one of Mumbai’s best-known buildings. It’s one of the city’s most prestigious places to stay but if you’re looking for a little taste, head over to the Masala Kraft restaurant inside that serves some of the very best contemporary Indian cuisines in the city.
Once the intense heat of the day has gone and the sun starts to drop, you’ll notice visitors and locals alike come out to enjoy the shorefront around the Gateway of India.
Just north of the Gateway of India, Elephanta Island is an incredible place to experience the hand-cut temples that were carved into the rocks over 1,500 years ago. Steeped in history, photos don’t do this place justice.
When visiting Kochi, stroll around the old quarters of Fort Kochi and explore top destinations such as the Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, which is one of the finest churches and heritage complexes of Kerala. Another site to visit includes the Aspinwall House, an 18th-century British heritage sea-facing building that serves as the main venue for the international Kochi-Muziris Biennale art festival. The quarters also are great places to shop for spices or sip coffee at chic cafés.
Watch Kathakali dance at Kathakali Center. This southern Indian dance form is an ancient performing art that emphasizes facial expressions and eye movements with singing melodies. It is one of the oldest theater forms of a “story game” genre of art.
London, U.K.
An 11th-century fortress, the Tower of London is the perfect place to start a visit to London during UAE National Day. As well as taking visitors on a remarkable architectural and historical journey, the castle is home to the world’s largest diamond.
A great way to enjoy London is to take a west-to-east walk along the Thames, through the cultural quarter known as the South Bank. Getting off the Tube at Westminster will take you right by Big Ben, the legendary bell atop the clocktower of the Houses of Parliament. From there, cross Westminster Bridge for stellar views back toward the seat of British democracy.
A rotation on the London Eye is a must for any first-time visitor to the capital. This Ferris wheel takes 30 minutes to complete a full turn, reaching 135 meters at its highest point and providing spectacular views of iconic landmarks from its glass capsules.
Three world-class museums lie within yards of each other in South Kensington. With seven floors of interactive, educational, and eye-opening exhibits, the collection of models, machines, and inventions at the Science Museum mesmerizes adults and children in equal measure. If you are in the area, the Victoria & Albert Museum, which houses the world’s leading collection of decorative art objects, is a must-visit.
No trip to the U.K.’s capital would be complete without a glimpse of Buckingham Palace. The simplest way to see a bit of sovereign ceremony is to watch the Changing of the Guard, a generations-old ritual in which soldiers swap shifts outside Buckingham Palace. Arrive early for a good view. The show starts at 11 AM, and it’s best to arrive by 10:15 AM.
Read | UAE National Day: Places to visit and fireworks to watch in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah
Cairo, Egypt
The UAE National Day holiday is the perfect time to visit Cairo, Egypt. For first-time visitors, seeing the famous Great Pyramid of Giza and The Sphinx should be on top of your list. Another must-see site is the Muhammad Ali Mosque. Built between 1830 and 1848, the Muhammad Ali Mosque (aka Citadel of Saladin) is the largest mosque constructed in the nineteenth century and the most visible mosque in Cairo.
Visiting the iconic Egyptian Museum is among the best things to do in Cairo. Established in 1902, and housed in a distinctive red brick building on Tahrir Square, the museum’s collection extends to over 120,000 artifacts. The Khan El-Khalili souk is Cairo’s biggest open-air market. The El-Khalili dates back to 1382 when Emir Djaharks El-Khalili built a large roadside inn on the site to accommodate travelers.
Bangkok, Thailand
If you plan on visiting Bangkok during the UAE National Day holiday, you must visit the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun. The first place you should visit in Bangkok is the Grand Palace (Royal Palace) and neighboring Wat Pho, home to the famous reclining Buddha and massage school. The royal family doesn’t live in the palace and you can’t go into any of the buildings, but wandering the grounds and open temples is worth the visit.
Then, wander down the street to Wat Pho and the famous reclining Buddha. It’s the largest reclining Buddha statue in the country at 46 meters long. Next, head across the river to Wat Arun (Temple of the Dawn). This is a gorgeous Buddhist temple on the Chao Phraya River opposite the Grand Palace. Take a tour of the Chao Phraya River, a relaxing and beautiful experience. You can also enjoy a visit to the floating markets around the city.
Istanbul, Türkiye
If you plan on visiting Istanbul during UAE National Day, visit Sultanahmet Park. Found in the heart of the old city, it’s a common gathering point since Istanbul’s historic landmarks border it on all sides. Head to the edge of the park to check out the famous Blue Mosque. Instantly recognizable by its six minarets, the mosque was completed in 1616 and is one of the most beautiful buildings in the world.
A short walk from the Blue Mosque is also one of the top things to see in Istanbul, Topkapi Palace. The palace is a UNESCO World Heritage site where Ottoman Sultans governed their empire until the middle of the 19th century. Originally built in 1456, it acted as a center of power for hundreds of years.
Istanbul is home to the world’s narrowest natural strait, the Bosphorus. As the only passage between the Black Sea and the Mediterranean, it has always been strategically important. Therefore, another of the top things to do in Istanbul is to take an afternoon ‘river cruise’.
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Maldives
If you plan to visit the Maldives, make sure to check out the Maldives Glowing Beach. If you are wondering how the beach glows and shines blue, when the world quiets at night, tiny creatures called dinoflagellates and bioluminescent phytoplankton release light when disturbed and create a magical scene.
Step into the capital of the Maldives, Malé, to witness the country’s rich heritage and culture. Walking the colorful, lively, and winding streets of the island capital and admiring the picturesque views gives every traveler a sense of joy. Aquatic wildlife in the Maldives is rich and exotic. Among various creatures, you can spot turtles in deep oceans while enjoying water activities such as scuba diving and underwater tours. Additionally, you can look for particular turtle-watching tours to have a thrilling experience.
Sri Lanka
One of the most popular places to visit in Sri Lanka is the Dambulla cave temple. It is the largest temple complex in Sri Lanka, with statues and paintings dating back to the 12th century AD. If you are looking to surf in turquoise waters, Arugam Bay must be on your list of must-see destinations this UAE National Day. For the most thrilling hike, Sigiriya or the Mount of Remembrance is a World Heritage Site and one of the most stunning places to see in Sri Lanka. The formation of rocks towers over the area, making it the best location to see a panoramic view of the nearby sights and the Sigiriya fort.
