The biggest day on the UAE calendar is just around the corner, when the city is filled with red, white, green, and black, and a long weekend swoops in to get you through the Q4 bustle
The air is abuzz with excitement and pride. UAE National Day, known as Eid Al Etihad, is the nation’s annual celebration of unity, progress, and the shared spirit that binds together everyone who calls this nation home. It is a day to reflect on the progress of the country, while taking a look back at its fledgling years and founding.
Taking place every year on December 2nd, Eid Al Etihad commemorates the formation of the United Arab Emirates in 1971, when the seven emirates united under one flag. Now marking its 54th anniversary, the day holds deep cultural and emotional significance for Emiratis and residents alike. During the occasion, many events are organised to commemorate the country’s visionary leadership, remarkable growth, and inclusivity, while celebrating the diverse communities that have contributed to its success.
The Legacy of Eid Al Etihad
The name Eid Al Etihad literally translates to “Festival of the Union,” symbolising the coming together of the nation as one family. Every year, the day is filled with festivities that showcase the UAE’s heritage, including traditional Emirati music and dance, spectacular fireworks, flag-raising ceremonies, and parades that unite generations in celebration. It’s a moment for both locals and expatriates to come together in gratitude, honouring the legacy of the founding fathers and looking forward to the continued evolution of the Emirates.
Over five decades since its establishment, the UAE’s story remains one of innovation and ambition, but also compassion and unity. The annual National Day celebrations are a beautiful reminder of what can be achieved through collaboration, respect, and shared purpose, all values that remain at the heart of the country’s vision.
2025 as The Year of Community
This year, the celebrations hold even greater meaning as 2025 has been officially designated the “Year of Community.” Under the slogan “Hand in Hand,” the initiative looks to strengthen social bonds and promote civic engagement through volunteering, cultural events, and inclusive activities that reinforce the UAE’s core values of unity and mutual support. Individuals, businesses, and organisations across the country are invited to take part, creating opportunities for connection and collective action.
The Year of Community perfectly complements the spirit of Eid Al Etihad, which both celebrate togetherness, compassion, and progress. It’s a timely reminder that while the UAE’s achievements are extraordinary, its greatest strength lies in its people and their shared sense of belonging.
A Long Weekend to Remember
With the long weekend approaching, Dubai and the wider UAE are gearing up for a spectacular line-up of events, offers, and experiences. With no shortage of ways to make this National Day unforgettable, now is your chance to embark on a cultural tour, enjoy a luxurious staycation, or jet off on a tropical getaway.
Cultural Celebrations and Culinary Experiences
One of the best ways to experience the UAE’s heritage is through its food, and Rove Hotels is once again partnering with Frying Pan Adventures to host the ‘Emirati Flavours of Jumeirah’ Eid Al Etihad Food Tour. Taking place from November 30th to December 1st, this guided experience explores the coastal roots of Emirati cuisine through storytelling, gahwa, and local seafood tastings. Guests can look forward to four authentic stops, insightful cultural narratives, and plenty of heartwarming moments that celebrate the country’s culinary soul.
The tour will take you to some of the hidden gems in the city, allowing you to discover the fascinating history of Dubai, one delicious bite at a time. Designed for foodies and culinary connoisseurs, this promises to be a different way to see the city through another lens.
Dining Experiences that Celebrate Togetherness
If you’re looking to indulge in a sweet treat this Eid Al Etihad, look no further than ALAYA. On December 2nd, the inviting dining destination is honouring the occasion by serving diners a complimentary Alaya Pudding Madlouka. This decadent dessert, crafted with toast bread, caramel, and milk cream, reimagines the traditional Middle Eastern classic. Inspired by the generosity and diversity of Dubai, ALAYA’s offering is a delicious symbol of togetherness and heritage, capturing the warmth and unity that define the UAE’s culture.
Staycations
What better way to celebrate this Eid Al Etihad than with a luxury escape right at your doorstep? Lucky for you, Dubai has its fair share of enticing options to choose from, and many of the city’s top properties are offering exclusive UAE National Day staycation offers. Over on the golden shores of Jebel Ali Beach, JA Resorts & Hotels boasts three dynamic properties, each presenting its own set of perks, discounts, and activities to keep guests of all ages happy.
As the brand’s original heritage property, JA Beach Hotel has delighted families for over four decades, complete with direct beach access, a lively kids club, splash zone, swim-up pool bars, and everything else you could ever need for a memorable family holiday. Surrounded by lush greenery, the neighbouring Palm Tree Court is a haven of tranquillity and connection, perfect for multigenerational families or couples. Meanwhile, JA Lake View Hotel stands as a stylish, contemporary lifestyle hub, featuring a champion nine-hole golf course, JA Shooting Club, and the award-winning Kinara by Vikas Khanna.
Meanwhile, in Ras Al Khaimah, DoubleTree by Hilton Resort & Spa Marjan Island is a great spot to mark the 54th UAE National Day with a special staycation offer running from December 1st to 5th. With its 650-metre beachfront, seven pools, and vibrant dining scene, it’s the ideal seaside escape for families and couples alike.
Spend your mornings enjoying water sports or the Pirate Boat Aqua Zone, unwind at the Jouri Rose Spa, and finish the day with a celebratory meal at one of the resort’s 13 restaurants and bars, all while soaking in panoramic sea views.
Getaways
If you’d prefer to take a break further afield, grab your passport and embark on a well-earned weekend sojourn. Just a quick four-hour flight from Dubai, the Maldives presents an idyllic escape for travellers seeking a tropical twist this UAE National Day. As always, Centara Resorts & Hotels is pulling out all the stops for the celebration, presenting incredible stay experiences across Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives, Centara Mirage Lagoon Maldives, Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives, and Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa Maldives, The Centara Collection.
Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives will be at the centre of the festivities this December, fringed by white sandy beaches and the gentle rhythm of the Indian Ocean. Providing unparalleled privacy, comfort, and five-star service, families and couples alike can spend the long weekend in a choice of sun-soaked villas and residences, each complete with a private pool, jacuzzi, or both. Exuding barefoot luxury, guests can spend their days exploring thrilling water activities, tranquil spa treatments, and world-class dining.
Alternatively, relish a romantic sojourn at Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives, Centara’s adult-only paradise. Take the opportunity to reconnect with someone special and take a breather from the Q4 madness as you unwind in an opulent, Instagram-worthy overwater villa. With a world of adventures at your doorstep, dive into indulgent culinary adventures, restorative wellness experiences, and water sports like windsurfing, parasailing, jet skiing, and snorkelling.
A Celebration of Togetherness
Beyond all the lively celebrations and eye-catching spectacles, UAE National Day is a time to treat yourself to some well-deserved downtime. No matter how you choose to honour the occasion, make sure you take a moment to do something you enjoy with the people you love.
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