This day marks the historic event in 1971 when the seven emirates came together to form one united nation. It’s a special time to look back on the UAE’s journey and celebrate its strength, hard work, and achievements.
This year, the UAE is giving everyone a long weekend to celebrate. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has declared holidays on December 2 and 3 (Monday and Tuesday) for private employees. With these holidays falling after the weekend (Saturday and Sunday), residents can enjoy a relaxing four-day break!
Join the National Day Celebrations: Enjoy the spectacular parades, fireworks, and air shows that are a part of the National Day celebrations. These events often take place in major cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Explore Cultural Events: Visit museums, exhibitions, and heritage sites to learn more about the UAE’s rich history and culture. Many places will offer special events or discounts for the occasion.
Outdoor Adventures: Whether it’s a desert safari, beach day, or a nature hike, the long weekend is perfect for exploring the UAE’s stunning landscapes.
Family Gatherings: This time of year is all about spending quality moments with loved ones. Organize a family get-together, enjoy traditional dishes, and reflect on the country’s progress.
Shop for UAE-themed Merchandise: Celebrate the spirit of unity with UAE-themed clothes, accessories, and souvenirs that showcase the national colors of red, green, white, and black.
Take advantage of this long weekend to not only celebrate the UAE’s remarkable achievements but also to spend time with family and friends.
Why is UAE National Day celebrated?
The UAE National Day, also called Eid Al Etihad, celebrates a major event in history. It marks the day in 1971 when the seven emirates came together to form the United Arab Emirates, creating one strong nation. This historic event took place under the guidance of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the UAE. The National Day celebrations carry the theme “Spirit of the Union”, highlighting the unity and strength that bind the nation together .During this time, the UAE holds numerous events, parades, and celebrations that bring together residents and visitors to honor the country’s journey of success and growth.
Guidelines for UAE Residents on National Day:
To ensure safety and maintain order during the celebrations, the UAE government has set clear guidelines for all residents. Here’s a simplified list:
No Random Marches or Gatherings: Public gatherings or marches that are not officially approved are not allowed. It’s important to follow the rules and avoid disrupting public order.
Respect for Public Spaces: Residents are encouraged to respect public spaces and ensure they do not cause any damage or litter during celebrations.
Follow Local Authorities’ Instructions: Always listen to the directions of local authorities, especially if you’re attending public events or parades.
No Disruptive Behavior: Any disruptive behavior, such as reckless driving or inappropriate actions during the celebrations, is strictly prohibited.
Enjoy Celebrations Safely: If you’re attending parades or events, ensure your safety by following guidelines and avoiding overcrowded areas.
By following these guidelines, everyone can enjoy a safe and memorable UAE National Day while respecting the spirit of unity and celebration.
Traffic and Vehicle Guidelines for UAE National Day
During the UAE National Day celebrations, it’s important to follow the rules to ensure everyone’s safety and to enjoy the festivities responsibly. Here are some key guidelines for residents:
Follow Traffic Rules: Always adhere to traffic regulations and follow instructions from police officers on the road.
No Party Sprays: Drivers, passengers, and pedestrians should refrain from using party sprays or confetti in public spaces or on the roads.
License Plates Visibility: Make sure your vehicle’s front and rear license plates are clearly visible. Don’t alter the color of your vehicle or darken the front windows.
Stickers and Decorations: You can decorate your vehicle for Eid Al Etihad, but make sure any stickers or logos follow official guidelines.
Passenger Limits: Do not exceed the allowed number of passengers in your vehicle, and never let anyone sit on the roof or hang out of windows.
No Unauthorized Modifications: Avoid making changes to your vehicle that could cause noise or block your view, such as adding unlicensed features or accessories.
Don’t Block Traffic: Never obstruct the flow of traffic or block roads, especially for emergency vehicles like ambulances or police cars. Also, avoid performing stunts on the roads.
Visibility is Key: Don’t cover your vehicle’s windows with stickers or use sunshades that block your ability to see clearly.
Things to Do During UAE National Day Celebrations
If you’re looking for exciting activities during the UAE National Day celebrations, there’s plenty to enjoy:
Dubai Celebrations: Dubai is celebrating for six days, from November 28 to December 3. There are amazing shopping deals, exciting acrobat shows, live music, stunning fireworks, and plenty of delicious food to enjoy!
Sharjah Museums: If you’re in Sharjah, entry to all public museums is free on December 1 and 2, making it a great opportunity to explore the city’s cultural heritage.
Enjoy the long weekend, and remember to celebrate safely and respectfully!
