The United Arab Emirates is preparing for an exciting long weekend as the nation gears up to celebrate its National Day. This occasion, also called Eid Al Etihad, marks the founding of the UAE in 1971 and is celebrated with pride and joy across all seven emirates. Residents and visitors can expect a wide range of events, fireworks, and cultural activities designed to bring the community together.
Festivities Across the Emirates
Abu Dhabi Celebrations
In Abu Dhabi, residents can enjoy spectacular fireworks displays at major locations such as Yas Waterworld on Yas Island, TeamLab Phenomena, Qasr Al Watan, Al Qana, Hudayriyat Island, and Emirates Heritage Village. These events are designed to showcase the UAE’s culture and achievements, providing a memorable experience for families and visitors.
Dubai Events
Dubai offers a vibrant lineup of celebrations at Souk Madinat Jumeirah, City Centre Mirdif, Expo City Dubai, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Hatta Heritage Village, and the Etihad Museum. These venues combine cultural exhibitions, live shows, and interactive activities to immerse visitors in the spirit of National Day.
Sharjah Celebrations
Sharjah’s festivities will be held at Al Layyah Canal, Kalba Kayak and Adventure Cafe, and several locations managed by the Sharjah Museums Authority, including Kalba and Khor Fakkan. The events focus on family-friendly entertainment and cultural experiences highlighting the emirate’s heritage.
Official Broadcast of the National Day Show
The 54th National Day show will be broadcast live across all seven emirates, uniting citizens and residents in celebration. While the official venue is yet to be announced, the broadcast will be accessible at multiple public locations:
- Abu Dhabi: Khalifa City, Al Falah City, Al Shamkha City, and local majlis
- Al Dhafra: Madinat Zayed Public Park, Liwa Oasis, Al Shahbana Park, Harat Parks, Delma Island public park, Zayed Al Khair Park, Majlis Mohammed Al Falahi Al Yasi
- Al Ain: Al Ain International Airport area, Majlis Al Toiwayyah, Majlis Al Masoudi, Majlis Al Fou’ah, Majlis Al Maqam
- Dubai: Al Khawaneej, Global Village, Dubai Festival City Mall
- Sharjah: Al Suyoh Park, Kshisha Park
- Ajman: Marsa Ajman, Al Jurf Family Park, Al Warqa Park
- Umm Al Quwain: Al Khor Waterfront
- Ras Al Khaimah: Corniche Al Qawasim, RAK Flagpole
- Fujairah: Umbrella Beach
This ensures that people across the country can join in the celebrations, regardless of their location.
Fireworks and Drone Shows
Fireworks remain a central highlight of National Day. Abu Dhabi will host displays at Yas Bay Waterfront, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Al Ain Square, Al Mugheirah Bay in Al Dhafra, and Bawabat Al Sharq Mall. In Dubai, Global Village will present nightly fireworks from December 1 to 3, along with UAE-themed drone shows on December 2 and 3. Additional fireworks can be enjoyed at JBR The Beach, Dubai Festival City Mall, Hatta, Souk Al Seef, and Bluewaters Dubai, ensuring every corner of the city is lit up in celebration.
National Day Safety Rules
Authorities have issued guidelines to ensure safe and responsible celebrations. Citizens and residents are encouraged to proudly display the UAE flag but avoid unsafe practices such as spray-painting vehicles or playing loud music. Regulations also prohibit:
- Placing stickers on vehicles or windshields
- Modifying vehicles to increase engine noise
- Covering licence plates or altering vehicle colours
- Obscuring windscreen visibility
Shops are also required to follow these rules, only selling approved National Day decorations and flags. Legal action may be taken against violations to ensure public safety.
The Ministry of Interior emphasizes the importance of celebrating with patriotism and responsibility, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to safety and mutual respect on the roads.
Free Parking for the Holiday
To encourage public participation, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority will provide free public parking in most areas during the National Day weekend. Exclusions apply to multistorey car parks and certain paid zones, but overall, this initiative aims to make access to celebration events easier for everyone.
Conclusion
The UAE National Day is more than just a public holiday; it is a vibrant celebration of the country’s heritage, achievements, and unity. With a packed schedule of fireworks, cultural events, and official broadcasts across all seven emirates, residents and visitors alike can immerse themselves in the festive spirit. By following safety rules and participating responsibly, everyone can enjoy this extended weekend of patriotic joy and community celebration.
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