Eid Al Etihad: UAE’s 54th National Day 2025: Your Complete Guide to the Celebrations

Every year on December 2, the UAE unites to celebrate its incredible journey of growth, culture, and national identity. The 54th UAE National Day 2025, also known as Eid Al Etihad or Union Day, is expected to be one of the biggest celebrations the country has ever seen.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know about Eid Al Etihad 2025, from fireworks and concerts to public holidays, cultural events, and family activities.

What Is Eid Al Etihad?

Eid Al Etihad, or “Festival of the Union,” marks the historic unification of the seven emirates on December 2, 1971.
It’s more than a public holiday; it’s a celebration of pride, heritage, culture, and the UAE’s forward-looking vision.

The country transforms into a vibrant festival of lights, performances, parades, and family-friendly activities, bringing millions of residents and visitors together.

Why the UAE’s 54th National Day 2025 Will Be Extra Special

The 54th anniversary comes at a time of massive national progress.
In 2025, the UAE continues to lead in:

• Space exploration
  
  
• AI and technology innovation
  
  
• Sustainable development
  
  
• Tourism and cultural preservation
  
  
• Economic growth and diversification
  
  

This year’s celebration honors both the UAE’s history and its ambitious future.

UAE National Day 2025 Public Holiday

UAE National Day is an official public holiday across all seven emirates.
Most residents can expect December 2 and 3 to be days off, creating a long weekend filled with events, fireworks, and family gatherings.

Official confirmation will come closer to the date, but the pattern has been consistent for years.

What to Expect During the 54th UAE National Day Celebrations

The UAE always goes big for National Day, but 2025 is expected to be even more impressive. Here’s what you’ll experience this year.

1. Fireworks, Drone Shows & Laser Displays

Fireworks are the heart of the UAE National Day celebrations.
Expect synchronized displays, LED drones, laser effects, and music-driven light shows across the country.

Best Firework Locations for UAE National Day 2025

Dubai

• Burj Khalifa
  
• The Palm Jumeirah
  
• Bluewaters Island
  
• Dubai Festival City
  
  

Abu Dhabi

• Yas Bay Waterfront
  
• Abu Dhabi Corniche
  
• Al Ain
  
• Saadiyat Island
  
  

Sharjah

• Al Majaz Waterfront
  
• Khor Fakkan Amphitheatre
  
• Sharjah Corniche
  
  

Each emirate will announce exact timings in late November.

2. Concerts, Cultural Shows & Live Performances

National Day week always features major concerts from both regional and global artists.
You’ll also see:

• Traditional Ayala and Harbiyah dance performances
  
  
• Poetry and storytelling show
  
  
• Projection mapping on landmarks like Burj Khalifa and Louvre Abu Dhabi
  
  
• Music festivals in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
  
  
• Special tributes honoring the UAE’s history and leaders
  
  

These events bring together culture, entertainment, and national pride.

3. Heritage Villages, Emirati Markets & Cultural Exhibits

If you want to experience traditional Emirati culture, National Day is the perfect opportunity.

Heritage villages and cultural hubs will feature:

• Emirati coffee and dessert stalls
  
  
• Falconry and camel displays
  
  
• Traditional crafts, pottery, and weaving
  
  
• Old-style souks and artisan markets
  
  
• Storytelling corners for children
  
  
• Boat parades in coastal areas
  
  

These attractions highlight the UAE’s Bedouin, maritime, and cultural roots.

4. UAE National Day Deals, Sales & Shopping Festivals

National Day in the UAE is known for massive shopping deals.
Malls and online stores offer:

• Huge discounts on fashion, electronics, and home items
  
  
• UAE-themed gifts and merchandise
  
  
• Buy-one-get-one deals
  
  
• Raffles and giveaways
  
  
• Special staycation offers
  
  
• Restaurant packages and National Day menus
  
  
  

5. Sustainability-Focused Celebrations

The UAE is integrating more eco-friendly elements into National Day events each year.
In 2025, expect:

• Drone shows replacing fireworks in select areas
  
  
• Biodegradable materials for décor
  
  
• Recycling booths and environmental awareness events
  
  
• Community cleanup programs
  
  
• Eco-friendly art installations
  
  

The country’s sustainability vision is now part of its national celebrations.

6. School, Corporate & Government Participation

National Day spirit spreads across every institution in the UAE.

You’ll see:

• School parades, art displays, and musical performances
  
  
• Government buildings illuminated in UAE flag colors
  
  
• Corporate CSR initiatives
  
  
• Charity events and community activities
  
  
• Public sector celebrations and exhibitions
  
  

It’s a country-wide celebration that unites everyone, locals, expats, and visitors.

7. Family Activities, Picnics & Road Trips

Many families spend the long weekend exploring.
Popular National Day activities include:

• Picnics at beaches and parks
  
  
• Road trips to Hatta, Fujairah, Khor Fakkan, Al Ain, and Ras Al Khaimah
  
  
• Desert camping with friends
  
  
• Watching fireworks from waterfront areas
  
  
• Visiting theme parks with National Day offers
  
  
  

How Do People Celebrate UAE National Day?

People celebrate Eid Al Etihad in different ways, but a few traditions are universal.

Common celebrations include:

• Wearing the UAE flag colors
  
  
• Decorating cars and homes
  
  
• Attending fireworks and concerts
  
  
• Visiting heritage villages
  
  
• Enjoying Emirati sweets
  
  
• Watching the official National Day ceremony on TV

FAQs About UAE National Day 2025 

1. When is UAE National Day 2025?

UAE National Day will be celebrated on December 2, 2025, marking the 54th anniversary of the UAE’s union.

2. What is Eid Al Etihad?

Eid Al Etihad is the UAE’s Festival of the Union, celebrating the unification of the seven emirates on December 2, 1971.

3. Will UAE National Day 2025 be a public holiday?

Yes. UAE National Day is a public holiday, and residents typically get December 2 and 3 off.

4. What events happen on the UAE National Day?

Expect fireworks, concerts, heritage villages, shopping deals, cultural shows, drone displays, and family-friendly events across all seven emirates.

5. Where are the best National Day fireworks in 2025?

Top spots include Burj Khalifa, The Palm Jumeirah, Yas Bay, Dubai Festival City, Al Majaz Waterfront, and Khor Fakkan Amphitheatre.

6. How do people celebrate Eid Al Etihad?

People celebrate by wearing flag colors, attending public events, visiting heritage villages, having picnics, watching fireworks, and enjoying time with family.

7. What should I wear on the UAE National Day?

Many residents wear clothing inspired by the UAE flag colors or traditional Emirati attire.

Final Thoughts

The 54th UAE National Day 2025 is more than a celebration; it’s a moment of unity, pride, and reflection.
Whether you’re attending the spectacular fireworks, exploring cultural villages, or enjoying the long weekend with family, Eid Al Etihad brings the entire country together in a way that’s truly special.