In Dubai and the United Arab Emirates, UAE National Day is celebrated on 2nd December each year. This holiday commemorates the day in 1971 when the UAE was formed.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) was founded as a federation on 2 December 1971. Six of the seven emirates (Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Dubai, Fujairah, Sharjah, and Umm Al Quwain) joined on that date. Ras Al Khaimah was admitted in February 1971.
UAE National Day is a public holiday, and a time for residents, expatriates, and tourists to come together and celebrate the UAE’s culture, heritage, and progress. It is a special occasion for the UAE to pay tribute to its first president, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and to honour the unity and spirit of the UAE people.
In 2023, UAE National Day will fall on Saturday 2 December. It will be the 52nd UAE National Day and is sure to be marked with spectacular celebrations. Families will come together to enjoy traditional Emirati food, music, and dance performances.
Specific events will be announced closer to the date. Fireworks displays will light up the night sky in many locations. Events are usually held at place such as Dubai Mall, Global Village, La Mer, Bluewaters, The Pointe, Dubai Festival City, the Dubai Fountain, and Burj Khalifa.
The Dubai Metro and Dubai Tram typically run later than usual, as do buses. Announcements about public transport timings will be made on the RTA’s website in the days leading up to it.
UAE National Day is preceded by Commemoration Day, or Martyrs’ Day, on 1 December. This day celebrates the sacrifices and dedication of Emirati martyrs.
UAE National Day is a time for reflection, celebration, and gratitude. It is a reminder of how far the country has come since its unification in 1971. It is also a great opportunity for visitors to experience the best that the UAE has to offer.
