DUBAI: In a historic move, the UAE’s National Day, now officially rebranded as ‘Eid Al Etihad’ (Festival of the Union), will commemorate the unification of the Emirates with four days of celebratory events, beginning on December 2.
This new title honours the UAE’s legacy of unity, symbolising the country’s core values of heritage, pride, and strength.
Announced by the organising committee on Tuesday, the rebranding aims to promote the UAE’s identity and deepen the sense of national pride on the 53rd anniversary of the nation’s formation in 1971.
The celebrations, themed around sustainability and collaboration, aim to encourage citizens and residents alike to participate in eco-friendly practices while rejoicing in this significant national milestone.
Eisa Alsubousi, Director of Strategic and Creative Affairs for the 53rd Eid Al Etihad Celebration, expressed excitement over the rebranding and the planned activities, saying, “This is a significant moment as we celebrate the unification of the seven Emirates. We encourage everyone to join us in marking this historic celebration in ways that are conscious and sustainable.”
As part of the festivities, the UAE has designated December 2 and 3 as public holidays, which fall on a Monday and Tuesday this year. For many residents, this means a long, four-day weekend from Saturday to Tuesday, providing ample opportunity to participate in events across the seven Emirates.
Eid Al Etihad
This year’s Eid Al Etihad comes with a particular emphasis on environmental consciousness, a reflection of the UAE’s vision for a sustainable future. The organising committee has provided resources and guides encouraging individuals, businesses, and families to participate in a way that minimises waste and reduces environmental impact. These guides offer practical tips on repurposing decorations, recycling materials, and reducing single-use waste, underscoring the celebration’s commitment to sustainability.
“For example, we can repurpose existing decorations to celebrate Eid Al Etihad,” the committee explained. “Whether you’re at home, school, or work, there’s always a way to contribute consciously and make a positive impact.” The guides have been distributed across government entities, private companies, and schools to inspire creative and eco-friendly approaches to holiday preparations.
In each of the seven Emirates, dedicated ‘Eid Al Etihad Zones’ will host celebrations on December 2. While specific locations have yet to be announced, these zones promise a variety of engaging activities, allowing residents to enjoy the festivities while reinforcing a sense of national unity. The Union Day committee has also planned large-scale parades, concerts, and cultural events to highlight the UAE’s heritage, bringing together the entire community in a spirit of collective pride.
Where to see Fireworks and Concerts
For those eager to witness the dazzling fireworks displays, Dubai will host shows at four key locations on both December 2 and 3: JBR Beach, Al Seef, Hatta, and Dubai Festival City Mall. At Dubai Festival City Mall, visitors can enjoy the IMAGINE light and laser show, a vibrant spectacle that lights up the waterfront each evening. Additionally, Global Village in Dubai will feature its weekly fireworks on November 29 and December 1, adding to the holiday atmosphere with a patriotic twist. These firework displays are designed to symbolise the spirit of Eid Al Etihad, illuminating the skies as a testament to the UAE’s progress and unity.
EXPO City Dubai will serve as another highlight, offering two free Union Symphony concerts supported by the Firdaus Orchestra. These concerts will feature beloved Emirati national songs and are set against the backdrop of the Emirati Harvest Market at Al Wasl Plaza, where visitors can sample traditional dishes and explore artisanal goods. The concerts will pay tribute to the cultural richness of the Emirates, with a programme designed to evoke national pride and collective joy.
Visitors to Dubai International Airport can also expect to be greeted with performances celebrating the occasion. Special spaces have been set aside in terminals to welcome travellers with traditional Emirati music and decorations, offering an immersive first glimpse of the Eid Al Etihad celebrations for international visitors.
Food and Fun
Food and retail will play a prominent role in the celebrations, with a number of events catering to diverse tastes. Dubai’s Beach Canteen and Ripe Market will host exclusive Eid Al Etihad editions, showcasing an array of gourmet food options, artisanal products, and family-friendly workshops. Winter Wonderland events across major shopping centres, including Mall of the Emirates and City Centre Mirdif, will host interactive workshops and live entertainment, transforming these spaces into festive hubs for families to enjoy.
#ZayedAndRashid
The spirit of Eid Al Etihad is set to resonate deeply in Sharjah, where a full programme of events will honour the UAE’s journey from its formation to its modern-day achievements. The Sharjah Union Day Celebrations Committee has lined up a series of activities from November 21 through December 2, which will be held at some of the emirate’s most iconic cultural and historic sites. Events in Sharjah are planned to celebrate the UAE’s achievements, traditions, and contributions, all while honouring the legacy of its founding fathers, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum.
The #ZayedAndRashid campaign, initiated by Brand Dubai, has marked the weeks leading up to Eid Al Etihad with a month of union-themed events. Beginning on UAE Flag Day on November 3, this campaign celebrates the historic legacy and visionary leadership of the UAE’s founders. City landmarks like Infinity Bridge, Museum of the Future, and Business Bay Crossing will be decked in UAE national colours and festive lights, creating a patriotic atmosphere throughout Dubai.
Public transport hubs, bridges, and other high-traffic areas across Dubai will also reflect the festive spirit, with decorations in the UAE’s national colours of red, green, white, and black. This vivid display of UAE pride will extend into city spaces and parks, where residents and visitors alike can experience the essence of Eid Al Etihad.
In addition to Sharjah’s main parade and fireworks, cultural exhibitions will take place at key sites such as Al Shindagha Museum, Etihad Museum, and Hatta Heritage Village. These exhibits will give visitors a chance to engage with Emirati culture, arts, and history, deepening their understanding of the country’s past and the values that continue to shape its future.