This year marks the UAE’s 53rd National Day (Eid Al Etihad), a holiday that reflects on the country’s journey of resilience, determination, and success. The UAE National Day is an opportunity for the people of the UAE to renew their loyalty to the nation and its leadership, with all seven emirates uniting in a chain of solidarity and celebration.
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.
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.
Central to the celebration is the symbolism behind the UAE flag colors — each color reflecting a core value of the nation:
- Green: Represents hope, prosperity, and the country’s landscapes.
- White: Symbolizes peace, generosity, and the open, welcoming nature of the UAE.
- Black: Stands for strength, reflecting the Emiratis’ resilience in overcoming challenges.
- Red: Signifies bravery, courage, and the sacrifices made for the UAE’s unity.
‘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.
Several key locations across Dubai will host events that bring the community together to celebrate UAE National Day.
Free public concerts
Famous for its spectacular architecture, Al Wasl Dome will host two free public concerts, featuring the UAE’s all-female Firdaus Orchestra performing Emirati songs. This iconic venue will shine bright with UAE flags and traditional decor, creating a cultural hub with live Emirati performances and heritage displays. The Emirati Harvest Market at Expo City will also showcase local agricultural products, crafts, and food, giving visitors a taste of the UAE’s agricultural heritage.
Engaging activities across popular locations
The Dubai Frame will be illuminated with a special light display celebrating National Day, while Dubai Safari Park, the Deira Clock Tower, and other major parks will be decorated with UAE colors. In collaboration with the ZayedAndRashid campaign, Dubai Municipality will also host family-friendly educational workshops and engaging activities across popular locations like Children’s City, encouraging exploration and learning.
UAE Flag Garden
Located near the Burj Al Arab, the UAE Flag Garden will make its 11th appearance this year. Dubai will arrange thousands of flags in tribute to the UAE’s founders, providing a visually captivating display and a perfect backdrop for photos. This annual installation has become a staple of the UAE National Day decorations and a must-visit spot during the celebrations.
Fireworks and light shows across Dubai
Another major aspect of celebrating UAE National Day is the colorful fireworks displays and immersive light shows across key locations in Dubai. JBR Beach is one of the most popular locations for a large fireworks display against the backdrop of the beautiful coastline. Visitors this year can enjoy both the lively atmosphere and scenic ocean views as the sky lights up in celebration.
Famous for its traditional charm along Dubai Creek, Al Seef will also host a stunning display of modern fireworks, making it an ideal place to experience Dubai’s cultural and festive spirit.
Hatta’s celebrations will also reflect the UAE’s heritage on National Day with traditional dances, music, and fireworks. The area’s natural beauty is a focal point, offering an immersive cultural experience that highlights the nation’s history.
Visitors can also celebrate the national occasion at Dubai Festival City Mall, where the famous light show encompasses music, water, and fireworks. The UAE National Day edition will add special elements to celebrate the country’s journey, making it a memorable experience.
Visitors can also visit Global Village to enjoy nightly fireworks throughout the National Day celebrations, adding a festive glow to the multicultural attraction.
Finally, Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, will be a focal point of UAE National Day celebrations. On December 2, the tower will feature a synchronized LED light show accompanied by a fireworks display. Visitors can enjoy the view from various vantage points, including the Dubai Mall promenade and surrounding areas.
Celebrate UAE National Day in Abu Dhabi
If you are in Abu Dhabi, you will get the chance to catch multiple fireworks shows lighting up the city during the long weekend celebrating UAE National Day.
Yas Marina Circuit
Head to Yas Marina Circuit on December 2 to watch the fireworks lighting up the skies in celebration.
Yas Marina Circuit will also host several family-friendly events including a car parade featuring remarkable vehicles decorated in UAE colors. The circuit is also hosting a karting competition for children and adults this year.
Abu Dhabi Corniche
At the Abu Dhabi Corniche, you can also celebrate UAE National Day with family and friends. The corniche will be alive with energy and excitement, as locals and visitors gather to enjoy the festive atmosphere with food stalls and entertainment.
Sheikh Zayed Festival in Al Wathba
The Sheikh Zayed Festival in Al Wathba will also have fireworks shows from December 1 to 3. Visitors can also look forward to a spectacle of drones lighting up the sky, Emirati folk arts, heritage games, performances, and more as well as special programs for children. Sheikh Zayed Festival is one of the country’s largest cultural festivals spanning 120 days filled with diverse activities and events.
This year’s festival will also offer a broad selection of popular and international restaurants, along with mobile food trucks serving thousands of daily dishes to suit all tastes, providing visitors with a world of culinary experiences for the first time.
The Sheikh Zayed Festival welcomes the public daily from 4 pm to midnight during the week and until 1 am on weekends and public holidays, offering a chance to spend valuable time with family and friends in an outdoor setting with a wide array of activities, events, and competitions suitable for all ages.
Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
This year, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, a five-star hotel, will celebrate UAE National Day with seven days of cultural events and live entertainment. Starting from November 27 until December 3, visitors can enjoy several festivities including a fireworks display and an Emirati orchestra on December 2. Visitors can also enjoy dinner at the hotel with live entertainment, percussionists, and fire dancers.
Al Maryah Island
Al Maryah Island will serve as a prime viewing location for the spectacular fireworks display during the UAE National Day celebrations on December 2 and 3. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant show from the promenade, which offers unobstructed views of the fireworks lighting up the night sky. The combination of fireworks and the picturesque waterfront at Al Maryah Island creates a magical setting for visitors. As guests enjoy the show, they can also explore the island’s shopping options and cultural attractions.
Celebrate UAE National Day in Sharjah
Sharjah’s Union Day Celebration Committee recently announced a program running from November 21 to December 2 featuring headline events that celebrate the UAE’s achievements and heritage across the emirate’s key cultural and tourist sites.
Sharjah National Park
From November 21 to December 2, Sharjah National Park will host several artistic and entertainment performances, competitions, and educational workshops to celebrate UAE National Day.
Al Dhaid City
Al Dhaid City is organizing a national march on November 27 starting from the Grand Mosque and ending at Al Dhaid Fort, featuring participation from government entities and school students. From November 28 to December 1 the festivities will include folklore performances.
Al Bataeh Area
UAE National Day celebrations at Al Bataeh Area will run from November 28 to 30 with an emphasis on heritage, national identity, and allegiance to the nation. Activities will include a traditional folk parade with participation from government agencies, local residents, schools, and arts groups. There will also be horse and classic car parades, and folklore performances.
The ‘Union Bus’ will also tour residential areas to distribute flags and National Day gifts. In addition, there will be traditional art showcases and children’s entertainment in local parks over the three days.
Mleiha
Mleiha this year will also host various activities on November 21 at the Heritage Village, starting with a national march, folklore performances, a play, and competitions, culminating in a communal dinner.
A special heritage area will showcase a Bedouin tent, and feature a dedicated space for local families to display their products for free as well as an area for government institutions to present their services to the public. There will also be a children’s play area free of charge.
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Khorfakkan
Khorfakkan’s UAE National Day celebrations will run from November 22 to 24 in the outdoor plaza of the Khorfakkan Amphitheater. The program will feature art workshops, activities for children, and traditional performances, beginning with the national anthem and followed by poetry recitals, school performances, and a performance by the Al Mazyood military band. The festivities will conclude with a musical folk performance and a series of competitions.
The amphitheater will also host events for local family businesses, a youth council discussion, a section for the little merchant, a robotics segment, and a cultural platform for children, youth, and senior citizens.
On December 1, Khorfakkan amphitheater will also host a musical evening featuring a prominent artist. The proceeds of these musical evenings will go to ‘The Big Heart Foundation’ to support children, vulnerable people, and families in need around the world.
Al Hamriyah
Al Hamriyah’s UAE National Day celebrations will be held on November 27 and 28 at Al Hamriyah Beach Park and Creek. Events on November 27 will begin with the national anthem in the park, followed by a march along the Al Hamriyah Beach walkway under the theme ‘A Nation’s Journey’. Traditional segments, artistic displays, and a poetry recital will also feature.
