UAE National Day Holiday is celebrated annually on December 2nd. In 2024, the country will mark the 53rd anniversary of this eventful day. In 1971, six (Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, and Fujairah) of the seven Emirates countries came together to sign a unification agreement, forming the UAE. In 1972, Ras Al Khaimah joined the UAE, completing the formation of the current UAE. Sultan Al Nahyan is regarded as the UAE’s founding, having played an important role in its formation. He served as the country’s first president. The iconic event is well anticipated and widely celebrated across the country. UAE National Day Holiday is commemorated as a symbol of this historic occasion. The day is celebrated with fireworks, exciting events, and a parade, which is witnessed by both locals and expats
Things to do for UAE National Day
UAE National Day is a holiday for everyone in the country. The entry to some of the destinations in the country, which you can do on the eve of UAE National Day.
National Day Parade
Every year on the National Day in the UAE, parades are organized in big cities like Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Elegantly dressed army personnel march through the city streets to the stirring anthem, “Spirit of the Nation”. The event organized in Dubai includes fireworks and fountain dance performances, making it among the best things to do in Dubai. The event also features cultural dance performances and is organized on a grand scale every year
Air Shows
If you are passionate about airplanes, drones, or even fighter jets, the Dubai Air Show is a must-see event during the UAE National Day celebrations. Airplanes approaching towards each other and escaping the crash and similar eye-opening stunts in the air by the flying objects. Airplanes soar through the sky, creating jaw-dropping aerial acts with remarkable precision, coordination, and skill. The event is organized by the UAE national army. More than 140 countries participate in the Dubai Air Show.
Burj Khalifa Top Floor View
Dubai is a destination where architects have broken all limits of innovation. Yes, I am talking about the gigantic structure that stands tall as a symbol of Dubai, the Burj Khalifa. The 163-story building is the tallest man-made structure in the world. No wonder viewing from the top floor of the towering structure is one of the best things you could do. If you are there in the golden city on the eve of the national day of the UAE. The tourists can view the city from the top floor of Burj Khalifa.
Union House
Visit Union House, built in 1971, where the leaders of all seven emirates came together to sign the unification agreement that formed the United Arab Emirates. Union House, also called Etihad Museum, is a historic location where the first flag was hoisted following the formation of the UAE. On the eve of National Day of UAE, one can explore this landmark venue to learn more about the UAE’s rich past.
Grand Mosque Abu Dhabi
Grand Mosque Abu Dhabi is an iconic destination in Abu Dhabi. The Grand Mosque is one of the largest mosques in the world. It can hold 40,000 worshipers at a time. It was built at a cost of ½ billion dollars. It is one of the most beautiful mosques built on earth. It has 107 domes, and the main dome is ornate with gold and beautiful Islamic designs. Tourists may visit this marvelous place on the UAE National Day.
Shees Park Sharjah Khor Fakkan
Shees Park Sharjah is a famous destination at Khor Fakkan, an enclave of Sharjah. Tourists can visit the park to enjoy activities like exploring man-made waterfalls, strolling through the butterfly park, dining in the BBQ area, walking under palm trees, and watching open-air stage shows. There is also a separate area for children to play and several picturesque spots. Visit Shees Park Sharjah Khor Fakkan with your family to make the UAE National Day holiday memorable.
Dreamland Aqua Park
If you are looking for water fun in Umm Al Quwain, Dreamland Aqua Park is the perfect destination. Beat the heat as the waterpark has various activities for all age groups. Due to this, it is a perfect destination for a day trip with your family and friends.
Dhow Cruise in Dubai
Dhow Cruise in Dubai is the best thing to do after a whole day celebrating the UAE National Day. It allows you to experience sightseeing at night in Dubai. The two-hour tour on a dhow allows you to have a glimpse of Dubai’s famous destinations like the Dubai Fountain, Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, and other picturesque destinations that look much more glorious at night. Apart from sightseeing, the food served on the boat is delicious, and you will definitely like to come back once more. Dhow cruise Dubai is best suited for couples looking for some private space.
The UAE offers many more destinations to explore in celebration of UAE National Day. You can choose any of the above mentioned to celebrate the UAE National Day. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, regarded as the founding father of the UAE, played a pivotal role in making this union possible and became the country’s first president.