Citizens and residents are gearing up for a long weekend to mark the 53rd UAE National Day, with celebrations lined up from Sunday, December 1, to showcase the nation's rich cultural diversity.
Also known as Eid Al Etihad, it marks the anniversary of the founding of the UAE on December 2, 1971, when six of today's seven emirates united to form one country – Ras Al Khaimah joined in February 1972.
"Everyone who calls the UAE their home will come together through various nationwide activations in Eid Al Etihad zones across the seven Emirates," said an announcement on the official website of the annual event.
From cultural celebrations and concerts to spectacular parades and fireworks, events are scheduled from December 1-3. Malls across the nation will be decked out in National Day colours and themes, with discounts on offer to mark the festivities.
A spectacular National Day show - celebrating Emirati values and the nation's development - is held each year, typically attended by the rulers of the emirates. Last year's festivities were at Expo City Dubai, during its staging of the Cop28 climate conference.
When is the National Day holiday?
Under a UAE Cabinet resolution, every year the public and private sectors receive two days off to mark the occasion – December 2 (this year on a Monday) and December 3 (Tuesday). This means it will be a long weekend this year.
The occasion is preceded by Commemoration Day, usually marked on November 30, which is dedicated to those who lost their lives serving the country. It is usually marked with a minute of silence at 11am and the UAE flag hoisted at half-mast. This is not a public holiday.
What is Eid Al Etihad?
The UAE National Day is officially titled Eid Al Etihad. It seeks to reflect and honour Arabic heritage, with the name emphasising the theme of 'union', the English translation of Etihad. It has previously been referred to as Union Day.
It's central to the country's “identity, symbolising heritage, unity, strength, and national pride”.
What is in store?
Celebrations begin on December 1, with a spectacular display of lights and colours at Bluewaters and The Beach, JBR in Dubai, with fireworks at 8pm. The next day, fireworks will be on display by the Hatta sign at 8pm and the waterfront lifestyle destination at Dubai Festival City Mall from 9.10pm. On December 3, the show will be at the historic neighbourhood of Al Seef at 9pm.
According to the organisers, Eid Al Etihad zones will be set up across the seven emirates for December 2, and the Union Parade will be held at City Walk on the same day.
The official ceremony in Al Ain on December 2 will be live-streamed across various designated zones, with Khalifa Square in Khalifa City, Etihad Arena and Sheikh Zayed Festival marked in Abu Dhabi and Dubai Festival City promenade and Al Warfa in Dubai and Wadi Hub in Hatta. The complete list for all Emirates has been shared on Eid Al Etihad's official website. Additionally, it will be screened live at cinemas across the UAE and on Eid Al Etihad’s YouTube channel, and official website.
Events will be put together by the Dubai Culture at Hatta Heritage Village, Al Shindagha Museum, the Etihad Museum and Al Fahidi Historical neighbourhood, with illuminations to deck the Dubai Frame, Dubai Safari Park and the Clock Tower roundabout. Hatta will get into the festive mood, with stunning illuminations and alfresco performances.
Global Village will receive a festive makeover, with flags, patriotic pyrotechnics and special themed shows. The Hawa Emirati Operetta will take centre stage from December 1-3, with a fireworks display pencilled in at 9pm daily. The UAE pavilion and the Khalifa Foundation pavilion will cook up a spread of authentic Emirati dishes.
A performance by Al Firduas Orchestra will be on at Expo City Dubai, with the Vision Pavilion transforming into a hub of traditional cultural activities, offering traditional activities and delicacies, from Henna to must-try sweets including Lugaimat, Rugag and other Emirati food.
Other concerts have been planned to spotlight Arab artists and regional performers. Amr Diab will take to the stage at Dubai Harbour on November 30, while Coca-Cola Arena will host shows by Arab artists Ayed Yousef, Eida Al Menhali, Nabeel Shuail and Abdulaziz Al-Duwaihi on November 28. Emirati singer Aryam is to perform at Festival Bay on December 2 from 8pm.
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