UAE National Day

A Festival of Pride, Unity, and Sparkle Across the Nation

2026/12/01

Every December 2nd, the United Arab Emirates bursts into a festival of color, sound, and national pride for UAE National Day. From Dubai’s soaring skyscrapers to the oases of the desert, all seven emirates are illuminated with parades, fireworks, music, and traditional cultural events. Locals, expats, and visitors alike join in, sharing the UAE’s story of history, diversity, and unity through this vibrant celebration.

In the cool winter air, families and friends gather to watch the Burj Khalifa fireworks, savor traditional Emirati dishes, and stroll through streets draped in the national colors. The scent of oud, cardamom, and grilled meat fills the air, while the beat of drums, patriotic songs, and children’s laughter echo throughout. For a whole week, the UAE is wrapped in joy and togetherness-a living festival that brings the country’s spirit to life.

Main Attractions

Fireworks, Parades, and Spectacular Light Shows

The biggest highlights are the grand fireworks displays in places like Burj Khalifa, Abu Dhabi Corniche, Yas Island, and Global Village. Dubai’s Burj Khalifa features a breathtaking LED and fireworks show, while Abu Dhabi hosts air shows, military parades, and mesmerizing drone displays.

Parades fill the streets with floats, marching bands, and traditional dance troupes. Car rallies and decorated vehicles are a beloved tradition, with children waving sparklers and joining the fun. The entire city glows with light, music, and the energy of celebration.

Traditional Performances & Heritage Villages

At Dubai Mall, Global Village, Abu Dhabi Corniche, and other venues, you’ll find traditional dances like Al Ayala and Al Razfa, live performances by popular Arab and international artists, and exhibitions of Bedouin culture, falconry, and crafts. Heritage villages across the country invite visitors to try Arabic calligraphy, traditional cooking, and handicrafts.

Markets and souks are bustling, filled with handmade jewelry, perfumes, dates, and spices. The music of the oud, poetry readings, and singing fill the air, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere.

Costumes and Decorations

The city and its people are decked out in the national colors. Red, green, white, and black T-shirts, scarves, abayas, kanduras, face paint, and accessories are everywhere. Children wear flag capes and glitter, while buildings, cars, and streets are adorned with flags, lights, and banners, radiating pride and unity.

Cultural and Historical Background

UAE National Day commemorates December 2, 1971, when six emirates (Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah) united to form the United Arab Emirates. In 1972, Ras Al Khaimah joined, completing the federation of seven emirates.
This unification was sparked by Britain’s announcement in 1968 to withdraw from the Gulf region, prompting the rulers to negotiate and unite under the visionary leadership of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan (Abu Dhabi’s ruler and the UAE’s first president) and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum (Dubai’s ruler).

Before unification, the region was known as the Trucial States, a group of independent emirates under British protection. Each emirate had its own traditions and economy, developing as tribal societies. With unification, a new nation was born, built on cooperation, tolerance, and progress. Sheikh Zayed championed policies that distributed oil wealth to benefit all citizens, investing in education, healthcare, women’s empowerment, and economic diversification. Thanks to this vision, the UAE rapidly transformed into a modern nation.

UAE National Day honors the founding fathers’ vision and unity, celebrated under the official theme “Spirit of the Union.” The national colors, commemorative logos, and silhouettes of the founding leaders are seen everywhere.
This festival is a living expression of the UAE’s diversity, tolerance, and hope for the future, where over 200 nationalities coexist. For Emiratis, it’s a day to remember their ancestors’ efforts, reflect on the nation’s journey, and pass on pride and dreams to the next generation.

Participant Voices

“I experienced National Day in Abu Dhabi and was overwhelmed by the energy. The Corniche was packed with families, the aroma of grilled meats and sweets everywhere, and everyone was sharing food and smiles. I even joined in for the Al Ayala dance!”

Fun Facts

The Burj Khalifa fireworks and LED show draw one of the largest audiences in the world.

Festival Dates

UAE National Day is celebrated every December 2nd across all seven emirates. Enjoy the fireworks, taste traditional dishes, and experience a festival that embodies the heart and soul of the Emirates.

The event schedule is subject to change. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.