With many workers having a four-day weekend and weeks of festivities leading up to the holiday, the day offers visitors a unique chance to witness the UAE’s culture, progress and sense of national pride.
When is the UAE National Day? Date and Holiday Schedule
UAE National holiday marks the signing of the union agreement in 1971, when six emirates united to form the UAE, and Ras Al Khaimah joined in February 1972. To honour this union, the UAE government grants public‑sector workers time off; the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources announced that Monday and Tuesday, December 1 and 2, 2025, will be official holidays for ministries and federal entities.
Since the weekend in the UAE falls on Saturday and Sunday, employees enjoy a four‑day break and return to work on Wednesday, December 3. Private‑sector holidays usually mirror the public sector, giving people across the country time to celebrate.
The public holiday calendar confirms that National Day falls on Tuesday, December 2 2025, and is followed by an additional National Day holiday on Wednesday, December 3. Many celebrations actually start in November; Sharjah’s government, for example, schedules cultural events from November 19 to December 2, culminating in parades and concerts.
Historical Significance and the “Spirit of the Union”
National Day celebrates the unification of the seven emirates – Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah – into a single nation. In 1971, the rulers of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Umm Al Quwain, Ajman and Fujairah signed the federation agreement.
They raised the UAE flag at what is now Union House in Dubai. Ras Al Khaimah joined the union on February 10 1972. The unification was led by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the federation’s first president and the country’s “founding father”.
The holiday is widely referred to as Eid Al Etihad (Festival of the Union) to emphasise unity and shared national identity. Emiratis celebrate the “Spirit of the Union” by reflecting on the vision of the founders and the rapid development that has transformed the UAE from a collection of small coastal settlements into a global hub.
How the UAE Celebrates National Day
Parades, Flag‑Raising & Heritage Shows
Across the Emirates, National Day begins with flag‑raising ceremonies and the national anthem. Colourful parades featuring floats, marching bands, drummers and performers dressed in traditional attire proceed through city streets.
Communities organise car rallies, where vehicles decorated in red, green, white and black (the flag colours) convoy through towns accompanied by honking horns and cheers. Heritage villages showcase traditional Emirati crafts, pearl‑diving displays and falconry, while schools and community centres host cultural performances.
Dressing Up & Decorations
Residents and visitors often dress in the colours of the UAE flag. Homes, shopping malls and skyscrapers are draped with flags and twinkling fairy lights; palm trees along city boulevards are wrapped in coloured bulbs and banners. In Dubai, the Burj Khalifa lights up with the national flag and messages of unity, making for dramatic photo opportunities.
Fireworks & Aerial Shows
Fireworks are among the most anticipated attractions. Cities across the UAE stage spectacular displays on December 2 and often the night before or after. In Dubai, popular viewing spots include JBR Beach, Hatta in the Hajar Mountains and Dubai Festival City Mall, where fireworks are accompanied by water, light and laser shows. Abu Dhabi’s Corniche and Yas Bay also host impressive displays, while Sharjah lights up its waterfront at Al Majaz.
Aerial displays add to the excitement. The UAE Air Force aerobatics team, Al Fursan, performs daring stunts over Abu Dhabi and Dubai, colouring the sky with smoke trails. Military processions and fly‑pasts are organised at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.
Traditional Food & Markets
National Day is also a culinary celebration. Many Emiratis host family feasts featuring traditional dishes such as thareed, machboos and luqaimat. Street markets pop up selling Emirati crafts, perfumes, henna and local snacks. In Dubai’s souks and malls, visitors can sample Arabic coffee and dates. At the same time, food trucks offer modern twists on regional cuisine.
Event / Location Description Date & Time
Fireworks at JBR Beach Watch dazzling fireworks on Jumeirah Beach Residence, one of Dubai’s most visited seaside promenades. Arrive early to secure a spot on the sand. Evening of December 2 2025
Hatta Mountains Celebration The Hatta region hosts an evening of fireworks at 8 pm, along with traditional dances and a cultural showcase in the mountain village. December 2 2025, fireworks at 8 pm
Dubai Festival City Mall & IMAGINE Show: A synchronised fireworks, light and laser spectacle on the waterfront. The show repeats several times through the night. Around 9:10 pm on December 2 2025
Riverland Dubai & Dubai Parks Family‑friendly fun with laser shows at 7 pm and 9:30 pm, plus appearances by mascots Modesh and Dana. December 2 (and some shows continue to December 3 2025)
Dubai’s Top National Day Events in 2025
Dubai offers an especially packed programme for the 54th National Day. Popular events include:
Event / Location Description Date & Time
Fireworks at JBR Beach Watch dazzling fireworks on Jumeirah Beach Residence, one of Dubai’s most visited seaside promenades. Arrive early to secure a spot on the sand. Evening of December 2 2025
Hatta Mountains Celebration The Hatta region hosts an evening of fireworks at 8 pm, along with traditional dances and a cultural showcase in the mountain village. December 2 2025, fireworks at 8 pm
Dubai Festival City Mall & IMAGINE Show: A synchronised fireworks, light and laser spectacle on the waterfront. The show repeats several times through the night. Around 9:10 pm on December 2 2025
Riverland Dubai & Dubai Parks Family‑friendly fun with laser shows at 7 pm and 9:30 pm, plus appearances by mascots Modesh and Dana. December 2 (and some shows continue to December 3 2025)
For those who miss the main night, additional shows often take place on December 3 at venues such as Al Seef along Dubai Creek.
Sharjah’s Two‑Week Eid Al Etihad Festival
In 2025, Sharjah is hosting a two‑week celebration from November 19 to December 2 featuring parades, musical performances and heritage events. Key aspects include:
- Opening ceremony at Al Siyouh Family Park on November 19 at 5 pm with traditional folk performances, competitions and theatrical segments.
- Daily activities at Kshisha Park and Sharjah National Park, including youth panels, children’s shows and traditional performances.
- Al Layyah Canal joins the list of venues from November 28 to December 2, hosting national performances and family‑run business exhibitions.
- Concerts and operettas: On November 29, the Khorfakkan Amphitheatre hosts a musical evening featuring Emirati stars Hussain Al Jasmi and Fouad Abdelwahad; on November 21, the operetta “Pulse of the Nation” premieres in Khorfakkan, Kalba and Dibba Al Hisn host parades and fireworks during the week.
- Community events across Sharjah: Neighbourhoods such as Al Batayeh, Al Dhaid, Al Hamriyah Heritage Village, Wadi Al Helo, Al Khrous and Mleiha Heritage Village stage parades, folk performances, classic car exhibitions, poetry recitals and bicycle parades. These events aim to strengthen community bonds and celebrate cultural diversity.
Celebrations Beyond Dubai and Sharjah
Across the Emirates, similar festivities unfold:
- Abu Dhabi hosts fireworks along the Corniche, at Yas Bay, and near the Emirates Palace. The capital also showcases air shows and military parades.
- Al Ain organises heritage villages where visitors can learn about Bedouin traditions, watch camel parades and sample local cuisine.
- Ras Al Khaimah lights up its waterfront with fireworks and stages cultural shows, while Fujairah holds parades along its coast.
Tips for Enjoying the UAE National Day
- Plan Ahead: Many events attract huge crowds. Arrive early at fireworks sites and book transport or parking in advance.
- Use Public Transport: Dubai Metro and buses run extended hours on National Day, helping avoid traffic jams.
- Dress Respectfully: Although festive clothing is encouraged, remember local customs. Dress modestly and avoid offensive slogans.
- Stay Hydrated: Even in December, the UAE’s desert climate can be warm during the day. Carry water, wear sunscreen and use hats.
- Respect the Culture: Avoid loud or disruptive behaviour, and be mindful of prayer times and designated family areas at events.
The 54th UAE National Day in 2025 promises to be a spectacular affair. Beyond the fireworks and parades, the holiday is a reminder of the UAE’s remarkable journey from desert sheikhdoms to a leading global centre.
Whether you join the crowds at JBR Beach, explore Sharjah’s heritage villages or attend a concert in Khorfakkan, you will witness the Spirit of the Union on full display.
Celebrate responsibly, immerse yourself in Emirati culture and share in the pride of a nation that continues to dream big while honouring its roots.
