UAE National Day 2025 Guide: History, Events, Fireworks & Eid Al Etihad Celebrations

Every year on 2 December, the United Arab Emirates celebrates UAE National Day, also known as Eid Al Etihad—a day that represents unity, pride, and the incredible journey of the nation from seven individual states to one powerful, visionary country. UAE National Day 2025 carries a deep emotional connection for both Emiratis and expatriates living in the country, symbolizing a proud moment in history: the unification of the Emirates in 1971 under the leadership of the beloved Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

This day is more than just a public holiday. It is a powerful reminder of the courage, wisdom, and leadership that transformed the UAE from a desert landscape into one of the world’s fastest-growing, most modern, and most influential nations. It is a celebration of identity, culture, tolerance, and innovation—values that define the UAE today.

Throughout the UAE, cities illuminate in the colors of the national flag—red, green, white, and black. Streets shine with decorations, families gather, cultural performances take place, and spectacular fireworks light up the sky. UAE National Day unites millions of residents, tourists, and families who come together to honor the legacy and future of this remarkable nation.

In this full guide to UAE National Day 2025 / Eid Al Etihad, we will walk through the history, celebrations, events, cultural traditions, roles of all seven Emirates, and everything you need to know to enjoy this important day.

1. Why UAE National Day Is Celebrated

UAE National Day marks the historic moment on 2 December 1971, when the rulers of seven Emirates came together to form a single nation—the United Arab Emirates. Before unification, each Emirate operated independently. The vision for unity came from Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, who believed that strength comes from solidarity.

The Role of the Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed

Sheikh Zayed played the most significant role in the formation of the UAE. His values of cooperation, peace, development, and human progress laid the foundation of the modern UAE. His leadership inspired the formation of a union based on equality, brotherhood, and shared prosperity.

The Seven Emirates That Formed the UAE

The UAE was formed by the unification of:

Abu Dhabi

Dubai

Sharjah

Ajman

Umm Al Quwain

Ras Al Khaimah (joined in 1972)

Fujairah

This union became a turning point in the history of the region and marked the birth of a nation that today leads in tourism, trade, technology, education, aviation, and global diplomacy.

2. The Role of All Seven Emirates in the UAE

Each Emirate plays a unique role in building the strong, united UAE we celebrate today. Here is a clear overview:

Abu Dhabi – The Capital & Economic Powerhouse

Political capital of the UAE

Holds the majority of oil reserves

Home to federal government, embassies, and top institutions

Major contributor in culture through places like Louvre Abu Dhabi, Qasr Al Watan, and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Role: Leadership, governance, culture & economy.

Dubai – Global Tourism, Trade & Business Hub

One of the world’s top tourist destinations

Home to Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Mall, Global Village

Leading in aviation (Emirates Airline), real estate, innovation

Role: International recognition, economy, technology & tourism.

Sharjah – Cultural and Educational Capital

UNESCO-recognized Cultural Capital

Rich museums, heritage sites, book fairs, universities

Strong in literature, art, and traditional preservation

Role: Protecting Emirati identity & promoting culture.

Ajman – Industrial & Manufacturing Support

Strong SME sector

Affordable living

Growing manufacturing and trade market

Role: Supports industry, businesses, and economy diversification.

Umm Al Quwain – Heritage, Nature & Marine Life

Known for mangroves, nature, beaches, marine heritage

Calm, environmentally focused Emirate

Role: Protecting environment & traditional lifestyle.

Ras Al Khaimah – Manufacturing & Adventure Tourism

Home to Jebel Jais, UAE’s highest mountain

Strong in ceramics, manufacturing, adventure tourism

Role: Tourism, industry & nature experiences.

Fujairah – Eastern Gateway for Ports & Trade

Only Emirate on the Gulf of Oman

Important for trade, shipping routes, oil transportation

Beautiful beaches and mountains

Role: Strategic trade hub & tourism.

3. UAE National Day 2025 Theme

Every year, the UAE releases an official National Day Theme that reflects the country’s values, achievements, and future vision. The theme celebrates the unity, strength, and spirit of the nation.

📝 Note: Once the UAE government releases the official theme for 2025, you can update this section. Common themes focus on:

Unity

Sustainability

Heritage

National pride

Vision of Sheikh Zayed

This section attracts search terms like:
“UAE National Day theme 2025”, “Eid Al Etihad theme”, “UAE National Day logo”.

4. Traditions & Culture of UAE National Day

UAE National Day is filled with traditional performances, patriotic activities, and cultural celebrations that reflect the soul of the nation.

✨ Military Parades

Powerful parades featuring the UAE Armed Forces, helicopters, and aircraft—showcasing strength and national pride.

🎇 Fireworks

One of the biggest attractions.
Massive fireworks shows take place across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, RAK, and other cities.

💃 Cultural Dances

Traditional Emirati dances include:

Ayala (stick dance)

Harbiya

Yola (heritage victory dance)

These dances represent unity and are performed across malls, heritage villages, and festivals.

🇦🇪 UAE Flag Decorations

Buildings, cars, streets, shops, and homes are decorated with UAE flag colors. Children paint their faces and wear themed accessories.

🎶 National Anthem

The anthem “Ishy Biladi” is played everywhere—schools, malls, events, and ceremonies.

👗 Traditional Clothing

Emiratis wear:

Men: Kandura (white robe)

Women: Abaya, Shayla
Residents also wear UAE-themed outfits.

🍢 Food Stalls & Traditional Dishes

Special food festivals offer:

Luqaimat

Machboos

Harees

Arabic coffee & dates

Modern street food with UAE flavors

5. Major Events & Public Celebrations

Here are the biggest and most popular UAE National Day events:

Dubai

🔥 Dubai Fireworks Shows

Burj Al Arab

The Beach JBR

Bluewaters Island

Dubai Festival City

Global Village
Huge crowds gather to watch breathtaking fireworks synchronized with music.

🎡 Global Village Celebrations

Parades, cultural shows, fireworks, and special entertainment.

🌆 Expo City Dubai Events

Cultural performances, laser shows, family-friendly activities, and food festivals.

Abu Dhabi

🌊 Corniche Celebrations

Parades, fireworks, food trucks, family events.

🎶 Yas Island Concerts

Top Arab and international artists perform live for National Day.

🏛 Government Parades & Ceremonies

Military performances, national programs, heritage shows.

Sharjah

💡 Sharjah Light Festival

Spectacular light shows across landmarks and historical sites.

Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain

Fireworks, parades, cultural villages, beach festivals, and family-friendly programs.

6. Public Holidays & Free Entry to Attractions

📅 Is UAE National Day a Public Holiday?

Yes, 2 December and 3 December are official public holidays in the UAE for both public and private sectors.

🎟 Free Entry & Discounts on National Day

Many attractions offer FREE entry or special discounts on UAE National Day:

Dubai Frame

Louvre Abu Dhabi

Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization

Etihad Museum

Heritage Villages

Public Parks & Beaches

Restaurants, cinemas, malls, and family parks also offer National Day deals and themed experiences.

7. Best Places to Watch Fireworks on UAE National Day

🎆 Top Fireworks Spots in the UAE

The Beach JBR (Dubai)
Best location for stunning beachside fireworks.

Bluewaters Island
Beautiful views of Ain Dubai and synchronized fireworks.

Dubai Festival City Mall
Laser show + fireworks combo.

Burj Al Arab
Iconic and luxury fireworks experience.

Yas Bay Waterfront (Abu Dhabi)
A popular spot with concerts and dining.

Corniche Abu Dhabi
One of the biggest fireworks shows in the UAE.

Al Majaz Waterfront (Sharjah)
Family-friendly fireworks with lake views.

Conclusion

UAE National Day 2025 is not just a celebration—it is a moment to reflect on the country’s inspiring journey from unification to becoming a global symbol of peace, progress, and prosperity. From the visionary leadership of Sheikh Zayed to the cultural traditions, grand fireworks, and modern events, this day highlights the unity and strength of the nation.

Whether you are a resident, tourist, or expat, UAE National Day offers countless ways to celebrate—from heritage dances to fireworks, concerts to food festivals, parades to citywide decorations. It is a beautiful reminder that the UAE is built on unity, diversity, and hope.

Celebrate with pride. Celebrate with joy. Celebrate Eid Al Etihad 2025—a tribute to the past and a promise to the future.