Eid Al Etihad: UAE announces 4-day weekend for public sector
Celebrate unity with a long weekend and sustainable festivities
The UAE government has declared a four-day break for public sector employees to mark the nation’s 53rd National Day, celebrated as Eid Al Etihad (Festival of the Union).
The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources confirmed the public holidays on Monday, December 2, and Tuesday, December 3, 2024. With the regular weekend already covering Saturday and Sunday, this announcement gives UAE residents a long four-day break from December 2 to December 5.
Eid Al Etihad, marking the historic unification of the Emirates, will be commemorated with various events to highlight the country’s unity, heritage, and progress.
Eid Al Etihad
This year’s National Day celebrations come with a new name. The UAE’s National Day is officially rebranded as Eid Al Etihad, underscoring the importance of national unity. The renaming is aimed at fostering pride and a deeper sense of belonging among citizens and residents alike.
Eisa Alsubousi, Director of Strategic and Creative Affairs for the 53rd Eid Al Etihad Celebration, said, "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."
The newly branded festival will feature a series of events focused on sustainability, as the UAE takes further steps towards environmental consciousness. The celebrations are designed to showcase the country’s commitment to eco-friendly practices, with resources provided to encourage waste reduction during the festivities.
Fireworks, concerts, and cultural events
Residents and visitors are invited to join in a spectacular line-up of celebrations across all seven Emirates. Dubai will host dazzling fireworks displays on December 2 and 3, with shows at key locations including JBR Beach, Al Seef, Hatta, and Dubai Festival City Mall. The light and laser show at Dubai Festival City Mall will further enhance the festivities, drawing large crowds to the waterfront.
For those interested in cultural celebrations, EXPO City Dubai will feature two free Union Symphony concerts on December 2, performed by the Firdaus Orchestra. These concerts will be held at the Emirati Harvest Market, where visitors can also enjoy traditional dishes and explore local artisanal goods.
Eco-conscious celebrations
As part of this year's focus on sustainability, the UAE government has distributed eco-friendly guides, encouraging residents and businesses to adopt green practices during the holiday season. "For example, we can repurpose existing decorations to celebrate Eid Al Etihad," the committee shared. These practical tips aim to reduce waste by encouraging the reuse of materials and the recycling of holiday decorations.
In addition to the large-scale events, smaller “Eid Al Etihad Zones” will be set up across the country, where celebrations will include parades, concerts, and cultural activities. These zones will provide an opportunity for citizens and residents to celebrate in a way that promotes unity and environmental awareness.
Food, Retail, and Entertainment
Food and entertainment will also play a major role in the celebrations. Dubai’s Beach Canteen and Ripe Market will host special Eid Al Etihad editions, offering gourmet food, artisanal products, and family-friendly activities. Winter Wonderland events at major shopping malls such as Mall of the Emirates and City Centre Mirdif will feature interactive workshops, live performances, and festive decorations.
Retail promotions will also be available at Dubai’s shopping hubs, including City Centre Mirdif, where cultural and entertainment events will run throughout the celebrations. In addition, special hotel offers, including discounts of up to 30 percent, will be available at luxury venues like the Kempinski Hotel.
#ZayedAndRashid honour founding fathers
In Sharjah, the month-long #ZayedAndRashid campaign will continue, honouring the UAE’s founding fathers, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum. From November 21 through December 2, Sharjah will host cultural exhibitions, parades, and fireworks. Visitors can engage with Emirati culture at sites like the Etihad Museum and Hatta Heritage Village, where exhibitions will reflect the nation’s progress and history.
Unity and National Pride
The celebrations will serve as a reminder of the UAE’s remarkable progress and the unity of its people. Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), emphasised the importance of the occasion, saying, “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.”
Whether participating in the fireworks, enjoying cultural performances, or embracing eco-friendly holiday practices, the Eid Al Etihad celebrations promise to be a time for the UAE’s citizens and residents to come together in national pride.