UAE National Day, or Eid Al Etihad, commemorates the union of the seven emirates and is a time for residents and visitors to celebrate the country’s rich history, culture, and achievements. 

This year marks the UAE’s 53rd National Day, and from November 21 to December 3, the emirates will host a spectacular array of events. From dazzling fireworks to cultural performances, here’s a guide to all the must-attend events across Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi.

Dubai

Fireworks displays

From the iconic waterfront of Dubai’s skyline to the mountainous backdrop of Hatta, there are plenty of firework displays for everyone to enjoy. Including: 

• Bluewaters Island and The Beach, JBR: 1 December, 8 PM
• Hatta: 2 December, 8 PM
• Dubai Festival City Mall: 2 December, 9:10 PM
• Al Seef: 3 December, 9 PM
• Global Village: 1-3 December, 9 PM

Lighting displays: Key streets such as 2nd Zabeel Road and Al Mustaqbal Street will also glow with vibrant lights, and iconic bridges like Infinity Bridge will be illuminated.

Cultural performances

• City Walk: 2 December, 4–6 PM. Over 200 performers, including acrobats and fabric dancers, will animate the Union Day Parade. The evening concludes with a soulful performance by Emirati artist Mohammed Al Shehhi and his live band. (8–9 PM).
• Ibn Battuta Mall: 1-3 December, 2–10 PM, showcasing workshops like Burqa decorating and Khezran stick painting. Plus there will be live traditional music, henna and face painting. 

Also read: The five most exclusive hotel rooms in Dubai

Shopping and promotions

• Mall of the Emirates and City Centre Mirdif: 15 November to 7 December, featuring live music and heritage displays.
• Retail discounts: 29 November to 2 December on perfumes, jewellery, and fashion.

Concerts

• Amr Diab at Dubai Harbour: 30 November
• Stormzy at Emirates Dubai 7s: 1 December
• Sugababes: 30 November

Attractions

• Museum of the Future: Celebrating UAE National Day with flags, commemorative tickets, and a special #ZayedAndRashid video.
• Global Village: Enjoy the “Hawa Emirati” Operetta followed by nightly fireworks. The UAE Pavilion offers traditional shopping and cultural experiences.

Sports events

Skechers Performance UAE National Day Run: 1 December, The Track Meydan Golf. Distances: 3km, 5km, 10km, and 21km.

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Sharjah

Cultural performances

• Heritage Village, Mleiha: 21 November. Activities include folklore performances, Bedouin tents, and exhibitions showcasing Emirati culture.
• Khorfakkan Amphitheatre: 22 – 24 November. Art workshops and military band performances will take place in the outdoor plaza. Then on 1 December, the amphitheatre will host a charity musical event to support ‘The Big Heart Foundation. 
• Al Bataeh: 28 – 30 November. Enjoy folk parades, classic car displays, and Union Bus tours distributing gifts. 
• Wadi Al Helo: 24 November. The event will feature a mix of folk performances, poetry recitals, and an awards ceremony, highlighting both tradition and creativity.

Commemorative UAE National Day marches

• Dibba Al Hisn: 23 November. The celebrations will begin with a public march followed by folk performances. A national operetta will showcase poetry, traditional arts, and military segments, embodying the UAE’s rich cultural identity.
• Al Hamriyah: 27 – 28 November. The celebrations will commence at Al Hamriyah Beach Park and Creek with a march under the theme “A Nation’s Journey.” The event will feature interactive workshops for kids, poetry recitals, and school performances. 
• Al Dhaid: 27 November – 1 December. A National Day march will start at Al Dhaid Grand Mosque and conclude at Al Dhaid Fort, symbolising the journey of unity. The festivities will continue with cultural and traditional performances, offering visitors a taste of Emirati heritage in a lively, engaging atmosphere.

Museums

Starting 23 November, the Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA) will organise a series of workshops and activities, celebrating Emirati heritage.

Discounts: From 1 – 2 December, all public museums in Sharjah City, Kalba, and Khorfakkan will offer free entry, inviting residents and visitors to explore the region’s rich cultural legacy.

Workshops and exhibitions: 

• Sharjah Maritime Museum: 1 – 3 December. A host of live performances and activities for all age groups. On 2 December, Bait Sheikh Saeed bin Hamad Al Qasimi in Kalba will present cultural exhibitions, music, and workshops from 5–10 PM.
• Sharjah Archaeology Museum and Sharjah Calligraphy Museum will host specialised activities emphasising the UAE’s artistic and cultural traditions.
• Don’t miss the “Letters Exchanged: Correspondence of Sheikh Saeed and His Family” exhibit at Bait Sheikh Saeed bin Hamad Al Qasimi, running until 31 December. 

Sports

• Route 71 Vintage Car Rally: 2 December. The route starts at Sharjah Old Cars Club, passing iconic sites like Al Badayer Retreat and Khorfakkan Amphitheatre. 
• Al Hamriyah: 28 November. A community sports competition will be hosted by Al Hamriyah Club and will conclude with entertainment sessions for senior citizens. 

Also read: What To Do in Sharjah: Uncover the Charm Beyond Dubai

Abu Dhabi

Yas Island 

Fireworks displays

• Yas Bay Waterfront: 2 December, 9 PM
• Yas Marina: 2 December, 9 PM

Yas Marina Circuit Festivities: 2 December, 4-10 PM. Activities include a prestigious car parade, karting competitions, and cultural performances. The evening will culminate in a fireworks show to end the celebrations on a high note.

Exclusive offers

Stay & Play packages: Some hotels are offering these packages for stays until 15 December, with perks like:

• Complementary room upgrade
• One complementary Fast Pass for one ride at either; Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Warner Bros. World™ Yas Island, Abu Dhabi and SeaWorld® Yas Island, Abu Dhabif. 

Participating hotels: Centro Yas Island by Rotana, Park Inn by Radisson Abu Dhabi Yas Island, Radisson Blu Hotel Yas Island Abu Dhabi, Crowne Plaza Yas Island Abu Dhabi, Yas Island Rotana Abu Dhabi, W Hotel Abu Dhabi Yas Island.

Exclusive season ticket: Guests can enjoy experiences like Ayalla dancers at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi, Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi, SeaWorld® Abu Dhabi and CLYMB™ Yas Island, Abu Dhabi with the exclusive season ticket. Unlimited access for AED 325 valid until January 31, 2025.

Yas Neighbour hotels: Yas Neighbour Hotels are offering special upgrades and deals including: 

• Complementary room upgrades at Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi
• 25% discount and room upgrades at Marriott Hotel Al Forsan, Abu Dhabi 
• Complementary room upgrades and 20% off food and beverage options at Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi. 
• Exclusive room upgrades at;  Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental Abu Dhabi, Le Royal Meridien Abu Dhabi, Jannah Burj Al Sarab Hotel, Al Raha Beach Hotel, and Courtyard by Marriott Abu Dhabi.

Also read: The five most exclusive hotel rooms in Dubai

Al Maryah Island

Waterfront Promenade Fireworks: 2-3 December, 9 PM. Head to the Waterfront Promenade for stunning fireworks displays lighting up the Abu Dhabi skyline. The family-friendly atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for an evening of celebration.

Al Wathba

Sheikh Zayed Festival: 1-3 December. Celebrate at one of Abu Dhabi’s most popular festivals, where cultural heritage comes alive. Enjoy Emirati folk arts, heritage games, and traditional dances alongside spectacular nightly fireworks.

Al Ain Square

Mother of the Nation Festival (MOTN): 1-2 December. The festival will treat visitors to fireworks, concerts, and interactive family-friendly activities. The event showcases the rich cultural heritage and progressive spirit of the UAE.

Celebrate this UAE National Day by exploring the rich cultural tapestry of the UAE, enjoying thrilling activities, and witnessing vibrant fireworks that light up the skies. Whether you’re in Dubai, Sharjah, or Abu Dhabi, there’s something for everyone!