UAE 53rd Union anniversary: Dubai unveils citywide Eid Al Etihad celebrations
Fireworks, live entertainment, retail offers, and cultural activities to celebrate unity
DUBAI: Dubai has announced a spectacular citywide programme to mark the UAE's 53rd Eid Al Etihad, running from 28 November to 3 December.
The celebrations will include dazzling fireworks, cultural activities, exclusive hotel offers, retail promotions, and live entertainment, all curated by the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE).
Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of DFRE, highlighted the spirit of unity driving the celebrations: “On the occasion of the 53rd Eid Al Etihad, we celebrate the remarkable journey of the UAE and honour the leaders whose vision and dedication have shaped our great nation.”
Eid Al Etihad celebrations
Fireworks and national pride
The skies above Dubai will ignite with dazzling fireworks displays throughout the Eid Al Etihad weekend:
- 1st December: Bluewaters Island and The Beach, JBR at 8PM.
- 2nd December: Hatta at 8PM and Dubai Festival City Mall at 9:10PM.
- 3rd December: Al Seef at 9PM.
In addition, the city’s landmarks, malls, and streets will be illuminated in vibrant UAE flag colours, with 11 decorative installations across key locations like the Clock Tower Roundabout and Al Khawaneej Roundabout.
Cultural extravaganza
Dubai will offer a rich cultural programme, including a thrilling celebration at City Walk on 2 December featuring over 200 performers and a live performance by Mohamed Al Shehhi.
The UAE Reimagined exhibition at Ibn Battuta Mall and Future Bedouin will showcase innovative artwork, workshops, and Emirati traditions like Khezran stick painting and henna art from 1st to 3rd December.
At Global Village, the Hawa Emirati Operetta will captivate audiences from 1 to 3 December, followed by nightly fireworks at 9PM.
Star-studded live entertainment
Top musical performances include:
- 28th November: Jalsat Moments at Coca-Cola Arena featuring Ayed Yousef and others.
- 30th November: Amr Diab at Dubai Harbour.
- 1st December: British rapper Stormzy headlining the Emirates Dubai 7s.
Sundance at Soul Beach will feature stars like Flo Rida, Jason Derulo, and Sean Kingston across two electrifying days.
Exclusive offers
Dubai’s premier hotels are offering special deals, including up to 30 percent discounts at luxury venues like the Kempinski Hotel. At Hatta Resorts, families can enjoy thrilling activities such as ziplining and archery with complimentary access to adventure hubs.
Retail promotions will run from 29th November to 2nd December, offering discounts on perfumes, jewellery, and apparel. City Centre Mirdif will host daily cultural and entertainment events throughout the celebrations.
Flavours of Dubai
Dubai’s dining scene will shine with Emirati Eats, a citywide initiative blending traditional Emirati flavours with global cuisines. Venues like Millennium Plaza Hotel will offer exclusive discounts and festive brunches celebrating local culinary heritage.
As Ahmed Al Khaja remarked, “Whether you're Emirati, a resident, or a visitor, join us in embracing the unity of the seven emirates and take pride in our shared appreciation for this extraordinary nation.”