The UAE National Day is a celebration of unity, resolve, and impressive mastery. It honors the day when seven very different emirates came together to form one rapidly growing nation. This day ignites the spirit of patriotism in every citizen to such an extent that no single area of the country, the tallest of skyscrapers or the most secluded deserts that bear the colors of the national flag, untouched and quiet, in the course of the day. The National Day commemoration is one of the prime things to do in Dubai in December.
UAE National Day : Its Relevance
UAE National Day is the most important date in the history of the United Arab Emirates which is, the year of the unification of seven emirates in 1971. This day is highly regarded as it represents the heritage of all the citizens and the residents of Abu Dhabi who participated in the unification in reverence of the leadership of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. It is a day filled with pride, joy, festivities, and numerous exciting activities, including elaborate rides, processions, and cultural displays. The country turns out in the flags and colors of the federal state and commemorates its culture and kinship.
UAE National Day: The Profound History
UAE National Day is marked on December 2 every year since it is the day of union of the seven emirates and they are from Dubai to Fujairah, Abu Dhabi to Ajman, Sharjah to Umm All Quwain and the incredible Ras Al Khaimah under one nation in the year 1971, under Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan A1 Nahyan’s headship. The day also focuses on the independence of the UAE as a state, as well as faith in the ideals of unity and a better existence. In modern times, the UAE has evolved into a military and economic superpower, rich in oil, which fuels its impressive skyscrapers and clearly shows the oneness of the seven emirates.
Significant Symbols
There are no official connotations about the colors applied. However, Al Maainah, the flag designer, pointed out the preceding symbolisms as his inspiration for making the flag.
- Black- is indicative of oil that is responsible for changing the economy of the UAE
- White-unity
- Green- fertility
- Red- unity
- Falcon- national emblem of the UAE
- Seven Stars : 7 emirates
UAE National Day : The Solemn Observance
• National Anthem
The country’s national anthem is sung, and the flag is hoisted right afterward.
• Parades
One of the most incredible activities and events during National Day are the parades that are filled with colors and display the culture and traditions of the UAE. Floats, drummers, and traditional men and women marching bands are some things you will see in the parade.
• Patriotic Hues
The residents of this country, from adults to kids, all wear the national flag colors.
• Brilliant Fireworks
Dazzling firework lights up most of the country’s regions at night. Whether it is Sharjah or Abu Dhabi, all have these excellent fireworks displayed, and the complete list entails,
- Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
- Yas Bay Waterfront
- Dubai Water Canal
- Burj Khalifa
- Global Village
- Bluewaters Island
• Car Rallies
Most of the car owners are seen painting the national colors on the hoods of their cars, attaching flags and sometimes flowers.
• Others
Dance shows, face painting, air shows, theatre performances
UAE National Day: Top-Tier Gathering Places
• UAE’s Malls
One of the most pleasing ways to celebrate UAE National Day is by visiting the best malls in Dubai, where discounts can reach as high as 90%. Malls like Dubai Festival City Mall & The Dubai Mall offer huge discounts and healthy activities such as traditional music, fireworks, henna painting, and pearl harvesting shows.
Address: Dubai Mall (Downtown Dubai), Dubai Festival City Mall (Dubai Festival City)
Time : All Day
Tickets : Free, charges as per specific activity
• AI Seef
Here, you will be able to enjoy the performance of the Dubai Police Marching Band. The march represents every segment of the Dubai police.
Address: AI Seef, Dubai
Tickets: Free
• Dubai Parks and Resorts
To enjoy a grand experience, Dubai Parks and Resorts is the best option. Take part in a cheerful circus parade filled with unicyclists, which is exciting and fun for everyone. Moreover, Legoland & Motiongate can be experienced for more heart-racing activities.
Address: Sheikh Zayed Road
Tickets: In accordance with park’s entry ticket
• Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain
A visit to the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain is a must during UAE National Day, featuring dazzling flag colors and a stunning fountain show synchronized to the national anthem. The marvel of the fireworks that are on sight is enhanced by the explosive charges of nationalistic sentiments, which result in a beautiful chaos of colors.
Time : 6:00 pm, 7:00 pm, 8:00 pm
Address: 1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd
Tickets: Not applicable
• Palm Jumeirah
Crowning UAE National Day at Palm Jumeirah is icing on the case, most especially at The Pointe. Live music, fabulous food, and breathtaking fireworks while relaxing at the promenades serve as the launching point. Local singers performing traditional music enhance the celebrations even more. Furthermore, remember to enjoy the National Day promotions and grab some nice souvenirs for lent prices.
Time: 8 pm (fireworks)
Address: AI Mirziban
• Global Village
Global Village organizes an extravagant National Day event with fun activities like free henna and face painting for all ages. Immerse yourselves in the essence of patriotism with local coffee, dates, and a busy bazaar full of local products.
Time: 9 pm (performances + fireworks)
Address: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road
Tickets: AED 15
Delectable Delicacies
National Day of UAE is everyone’s day; people see food as the central unifying and artistic element. Sample some delectable traditional Arabic cuisines such as shawarma, machboos, luqaimat, and their special Arabic Coffee. Enjoy street food cuisine at Ravi Restaurant, a fish buffet at Jumeirah Fishing Harbour, and traditional desserts at Samadi Sweets.
National Day: the Sales
As the celebration of National Day, a crucial UAE public holiday, approach the nationwide sales for the National Day distributed over the country’s shops and markets. More often than not, malls, souks, and markets will offer you irresistible prices. Enjoy the fantastic National Day sale and promotions on a vast range of items, explaining why this period of the year is all about shopping and patriotism.
What to Keep Away From?
- In observance of National Day and COP28, Sheikh Zayed Road will be closed from 1st to 3rd December. Find other ways to get around such events, for example, using the metro and complying with UAE rules.
- It is advised that during the National Day celebrations in the UAE, other restrictions are in place, for example, impromptu gatherings and party splash,
- No decorating cars and overloading them
- Windows are able to be rolled down
- Traffic will be kept moving and only UAE flags will be used.
- Any other promotional materials are irrelevant and thus should not be displayed by shopkeepers.
The atmosphere during the National Day includes colorful fireworks, cultural displays, parades, and other entertaining activities that every member of the country rejoices in. Either as a tourist or as one of the residents, this day presents an exciting opportunity to appreciate Emirati culture as well as love for one’s country while also enjoying Dubai’s new attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q1. What is the relevance of UAE National Day?
It characterizes independence, unity, and the Emirati people’s shared heritage.
Q2. Is this a public day?
Yes, UAE’s significant public holidays and schools & businesses remain closed, thus letting people participate in celebrations.
Q3. How is UAE’s national day commemorated?
- Decorating streets + homes with flags
- Relishing Emirati delicacy
- Partaking in community events
Q4. What are the typical UAE National Day events?
- Cultural performances
- Fireworks
- Parades