UAE citizens and residents are preparing to enjoy a long weekend as the UAE cabinet has officially announced the National Day celebration in Abu Dhabi.
Unlike previous years, Abu Dhabi has a whole 9-day celebration in store for everyone to witness. The United Arab Emirates celebrates its National Day on December 2nd to commemorate its seven Emirates spirit of the union.
A bank holiday has been declared from December 1st to December 4th in Abu Dhabi.
Listed below are a number of events scheduled in and around the capital, including the most significant National Day celebration at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center (ADNEC), which promises an exceptional experience.
If you are looking for a getaway, check out some of these fantastic places to stay.
National Day Events In Abu Dhabi
1. Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC)
At the UAE National Day official ceremony held at ADNEC, attendees will be taken on a journey through generations, starting with the establishment of the UAE in 1971 to the envisioned future 2071, marking its centennial year.
Taking inspiration from the UAE’s rich culture and present-day ambitions, it will showcase breathtaking performances, unique technologies, and exceptional storytelling.
The doors will be open for nine days, starting December 3rd to December 11th. A live stream of the production will be available on the UAE’s National Day official website and broadcast on local television stations on December 2.
Here are some important points to note about this event:
- A Green Pass must be shown on the ALHOSN application.
- Both the ticket and Emirates ID must be presented at the entrance.
- Parking is available at parking bays A and B at ADNEC.
- Children below three years of age enter for free.
For more information on tickets to this event
Dates: December 3 to December 11
Timings: Starting at 6 PM
Cost: AED 200 per person for Nine shows
Those under the age of three are free if seated on the lap of a parent.
Location: Outside ADNEC
2. Mille Miglia
For all the car enthusiasts, for the first time, the most beautiful race in the world will be held in the UAE.
Bringing together 100 of the most unique and the world’s rarest classic cars (some as old as 1927) from around the globe.
Mille Miglia was established in Italy in 1927 and has since become a significant event for car enthusiasts worldwide.
In the United Arab Emirates, the 1600 kilometres course will pass through UAE’s seven Emirates covering Iconic landmarks and locations, including Abu Dhabi’s world renowned Emirates Palace along Abu Dhabi’s Corniche.
It will be the biggest event outside of Italy for the organisers of the 1000 Miglia or Mille Miglia as it is popularly known.
Although the cars are currently on display at the Dubai Creek Golf Club, Abu Dhabi locals and expats will be able to witness the cars drive by from December 5th to December 8th as a part of the extended UAE National Day celebration in Abu Dhabi.
Race Dates: December 5 to December 8
Fireworks For National Day Celebration In Abu Dhabi
Fireworks are a key feature of National Day celebrations in the United Arab Emirates. Abu Dhabi holds The Guinness World Record for the largest straight-line fireworks display lasting 36 minutes.
Various locations in the United Arab Emirates will host the fireworks display on December 2 and 3. The following are confirmed venues in Abu Dhabi.
3. Firework Display At Al Maryah Island
A magical red, green, and white firework display will be held on Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi to celebrate the UAE’s National Day. It will take place over two evenings, 2nd & 3rd of December.
There are a number of locations around Al Maryah Island where the public can enjoy the extravagant fireworks display.
From the waterfront promenade at Al Maryah Island, the bridges linking to the island, restaurants along the path or the beach club located across the waterfront promenade, Beach Rotana.
Dates: December 2 and December 3
Timings: 9 PM on both dates
Cost: Free to the public
Location: Al Maryah Island – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
4. Fireworks On Abu Dhabi Corniche
Watching the fireworks display on the Corniche has become an iconic part of the UAE National Day celebration in Abu Dhabi.
To avoid being stuck in traffic along the Corniche, we recommend parking your car nearby and walking.
Be sure to carry a camera to capture a gram-worthy shot of the epic fireworks lighting up the night sky.
To witness the amazing stream of fireworks, onlookers can be sure to catch a glimpse along the 7.2 kilometres of Corniche promenade.
Dates: December 2
Timings: 9 PM
Cost: Free to the public
Location: Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
5. Fireworks And Light Show At The Emirates Palace Hotel, Abu Dhabi
The Emirates Palace Hotel will host a number of festivities for National Day. On December 2, fireworks will illuminate the hotel’s beachfront starting at 9 PM.
Apart from the fireworks, the venue has family-friendly events starting November 28 through December 7 at the Grand Dome of the Emirates Palace Hotel.
- A variety of lighting displays and illuminations can be found throughout the hotel from November 28 to December 7.
- Get up close and personal with Falcons, the national bird of the UAE, on December 2 and December 3. (11 AM to 3 PM at the Grand Dome).
- Witness the traditional Al Ayala Dance on December 2. (3 PM to 6 PM at the Grand Dome)
- Tonnes of activities for the little ones from November 29 to December 3 (11 AM to 9 PM at the Grand Dome)
- A Date festival displaying over 50 varieties of dates from November 29 to December 3 at the Grand Dome.
- A Live Khaleeji concert on December 1 and December 3 at 7:30 PM on the Palace grounds.
Firework Dates: December 2
Timings: 9 PM
Location: West Corniche Road – Al Ras Al Akhdar – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
6. Firework Display At Bawabat Al Sharq Mall, Abu Dhabi
To commemorate National Day, Abu Dhabi’s southern Baniyas neighbourhood, Bawabat Al Sharq shopping mall will hold the most impressive fireworks display in its history.
The fireworks show will feature the colours of the UAE flag on December 2 at 9 PM.
With a Lincoln Nautilus SUV up for grabs and plenty of activities and games for kids, it’s sure to be a memorable evening.
Dates: December 2
Timings: 9 PM
Cost: Free to the public
Location: Bawabat Al Sharq St – Bani Yas – Baniyas East – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
7. Fireworks Display At Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival
From November 18 to March 18, the Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival will take place in Al Wathba, an Abu Dhabi suburb near Bani Yas.
As part of the celebration, the UAE will showcase its rich diversity of traditions and the legacy of the nation’s founder, Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
Visitors can experience Emirati heritage and culture through arts and crafts, a spread of various delicacies, and many fun activities suited for all ages.
One of the major highlights of the Heritage festival during the National Day celebration in Abu Dhabi is the fireworks which are also known to have broken records.
The drive out to Al Wathba is worth it during the winter months since plenty of noteworthy events run alongside the Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival.
- Weekly Emirates Fountain performances, laser and hologram shows and Fireworks every Saturday at 10 PM.
- Drone shows on National Day and New Year’s Eve.
- Folkloric shows
- Emirati civilisation pavilions
- Global civilisation pavilions
- Glow and Flower Garden
- Several large TV screens to watch the FIFA World Cup matches
- Hop on the tall Ferris wheel
- Al Forsan Sports resort
- Traditional cooking competition
- Racing and sailing festivals
- Falconry competitions
For more information on events and ticket bookings
Dates of Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival: November 18 to March 18 from 4 PM to Midnight
Dates of National Day Fireworks: December 2 and December 3
Timings of National Day Fireworks: 9 PM
Cost: AED 5 per person
Children under three and adults over sixty enter for free
Location: Al Wathbah – Al-Wathba South – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
8. National Day Celebration In Abu Dhabi Air Show
The Air Show at Al Fursan is another spectacular element of the National Day celebrations in Abu Dhabi.
Just a few metres above ground at supersonic speeds, fighter jets will spread colours of the UAE flag red, green, black, and white fly through the Corniche promenade, Marina Malls’ breakwaters and the family beaches along the coastline.
Anywhere along the Corniche street would be a good place to watch the show. However a “Picnic at the Palace” is a great idea! Relax on the grass and snack while watching the fighter jets do a low fly-by.
Dates: December 2
Timings: Between 4 PM to 5 PM
Cost: Free to the public
Location: Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Picnic at The Palace: Emirates Palace Hotel – West Corniche Road – Al Ras Al Akhdar – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
9. Dine at Flavours, Abu Dhabi
Celebrate National Day at Sheraton on December 2 with an exclusive buffet featuring a wide selection of Arabic delicacies.
The best time to arrive is around 7 PM, when the buffet opens. Stroll to the Corniche promenade to watch the spectacular fireworks light up the night sky before 9pm.
Dates: December 2
Timings: 7 PM to 10:30 PM
Cost: From AED 135 per person
Location: Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort – Corniche Road – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
10. Dine At Escape Pool Bar, Abu Dhabi
Westbays Escape Pool Bar overlooks the Corniche beach and is a perfect venue for family and friends who wish to enjoy the outdoor weather with barbeque and music.
The painted sky is particularly spectacular just after sunset, when the hues of orange fade away, revealing the starry sky.
In addition to local and international buffets, the event includes a live BBQ station and a refreshing crunchy salad bar.
Escape Pool Bar makes for the perfect National Day celebration location to enjoy fireworks displays at 9 PM while indulging in an array of delicious food.
Dates: December 2
Timings: 7 PM to 10 PM
Cost: From AED 199 per person
Location: Radisson Blu Hotel and Resort – West Bay – Corniche Rd – Al Bateen – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
11. Dine And Dance Away At Al Maya Island
Want to break away from the usual social routine in the city and dance away?
Al Maya Island has got your back. The white sand beaches and crystal blue waters with tropical island vibes are just a 10-minute boat ride away.
A live DJ will accompany the National Day weekend’s festivities on the Island, which include food, drinks, and a party you do not want to miss.
Fireworks would be the only thing missing, but the vibes here are unmatched.
For more information and day passes
Dates: December 3
Timings: 12 PM to 8 PM
Cost: AED 250 for the Day Pass, including the boat transfer (AED 100 redeemable on F&B)
Ladies enter for free before 12 PM
20% off Passes for Cabin Crew, Teachers, Hoteliers, Healthcare Providers, and Fazaa Card Holders
Entry is free for people with their own boats after 5 PM daily
Al Maya Island Jetty Location: F838+H8Q – Al Ras Al Akhdar – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Location: Al Maya Island – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
12. Afternoon Tea At The Majlis Lounge
Rosewood hotel’s Majlis Lounge is the perfect venue to spend an afternoon during National Day weekend festivities overlooking the Al Maryah promenade.
An elegant afternoon tea inspired by UAE heritage and legacy awaits guests during this memorable event.
Guests can stroll around the venue and admire the beautiful skies against the city skyline as pastry chefs create a creative and charming spread based on the striking colours of the UAE’s flag.
The combination of barista coffees and loose-leaf teas with vegan tea options will surely bring Majlis Lounge’s classic afternoon tea to a new level.
Adding premium bubbly to this experience will further enhance the experience.
For reservations and enquiries
Dates: December 1 to December 4
Timings: 3 PM to 6 PM
Cost: AED 210 per person
AED 230 per person inclusive of premium bubbly
Location: Rosewood Al Maryah Island – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
13. UAE National Day Staycation At The Rosewood Abu Dhabi
The Rosewood Abu Dhabi offers guests a special rate of only AED 1,051 per night during the UAE National Day weekend.
Hotel guests are guaranteed an extraordinary experience with access to the hotel’s spectacular rooftop pool and the extensive breakfast options offered at its in-house AQUA restaurant.
The icing on the cake is the display of fireworks on Al Maryah Islands promenade, which creates a magical atmosphere.
In addition to the beautiful surprises, each family or group checking in on December 2 and 3 will receive a welcome spread of Arabic sweets themed around the UAE flag.
Ripe Market on Al Maryah Island’s promenade is a particular highlight during the National Day weekend, featuring organic varieties, local crafts, entertainment, and more.
Use Promo Code PCKUAE when booking to avail of the offer
Staycation Dates: November 30 to December 4
Ripe Market Date: December 2
Cost: AED 1051 per room
Location: Al Maryah Island – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
Fun Activities For UAE National Day Celebrations
14. Kayaking At The Eastern Mangroves
A couple hours of kayaking at the Eastern Mangroves on the National holiday weekend would be a great way to enjoy the cooler weather.
Kayak through the mangroves keeping an eye out for wildlife such as flamingos, birds and fish beneath the clear water.
Another fantastic experience is to kayak at night with a guide who can lead the way through the channels of water under the moonlight.
A quick look at Abu Dhabi city’s skyline at the right time will reveal fireworks in the distance, which makes for a breathtaking sight.
Location: Al Salam Street – Al Kheeran – Eastern Mangrove – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
15. Camp Out For The National Day Celebration In Abu Dhabi
For a weekend away in Abu Dhabi, camping can be a fantastic budget-friendly option.
It is one of the most worthwhile experiences for an evening spent around a crackling bonfire, a glow of a flaming grill, and a starry night sky.
Abu Dhabi is known for its pleasant winters. The gradual drop in temperatures from October onwards allows residents and visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the UAE.
During the cooler months, camping in Abu Dhabi is an amazing alternative to staying at a fancy hotel or going to a beach club during the National Day weekend.
For more information on camping in Abu Dhabi
Below are some of the well known spots to camp out and glamp for the National Day celebration in Abu Dhabi:
Camping Sites In Abu Dhabi
- Liwa Oasis
- Al Khazna camping site
- Al Wathba lake camp
- Al Dhafra Beach Abu Dhabi camping beach
- Mirfa beach
- Al Razeen desert
- Al Qua’a desert
Glamping Sites In Abu Dhabi
- Bab Al Nojoum-Hudayriyat Island
- Bab Al Nojoum-Al Mugheirah Resort
- Jabel Hafit desert park
- Green Mubazzarah chalets
- Nujum Camp at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara
- Tilal Liwa
- Arabian Nights Village
16. Hiking During The National Day Weekend
Hiking is something adventurous and worthwhile during the National Day celebration in Abu Dhabi.
Take a group of friends, hire a vehicle, and head to Hatta, a few hours away, to explore the expanse of the Hajar mountains. There are a number of hiking trails, from the easy to challenging.
The sense of accomplishment and excitement experienced after conquering the hike is something words cannot describe. The views are incredible!
Stay at a glamping site located at the base of the mountains or make a day trip out of it. Either way, it is going to be a memorable experience.
When traveling in a group of 5 or more, we recommend hiring a tour guide to keep the group on the trail, since a detour could take up to a few hours.
For more information on staying at the Hajar mountains.
Location: Q4Q7+GM Hatta – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
National Day Celebration In Abu Dhabi Frequently Asked Questions
How does UAE National Day differ from other national holidays?
The date marks the integration of all seven Emirates into a single nation, known as the Spirit of the Union. Emiratis and expatriates celebrate UAE National Day with displays of fireworks, gatherings and spectacular events.
When does UAE celebrate National Day?
The United Arab Emirates celebrates its National Day on December 2.
In what year was the UAE founded?
On December 2, 1971, the rulers of six Emirates (Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Dubai, Umm al-Quwain, Ajman and Fujairah) formally established the United Arab Emirates.
Are there any good places in Abu Dhabi to watch the UAE National Day fireworks?
As of now, Abu Dhabi has set many locations for the National Day fireworks display, the most prominent ones are as follows:
- Al Maryah Island
- Abu Dhabi Corniche
- Emirates Palace Grounds
- Bawabat Al Sharq Shopping Mall
- Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival
How is the UAE National Day referred to in Arabic?
Emiratis refer the UAE National Day as “Al Yawm Al Watani“
How was UAE referred to 50 years ago?
UAE, or United Arab Emirates as we now call it, was formerly known as the Trucial States.
Are there any cultural symbols associated with the UAE?
The cultural symbol consists of a golden falcon with a disc in the middle showing the UAE flag and seven stars, one for each of the seven Emirates.
To Sum Up National Day Celebration In Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is a fantastic destination to travel to in the cooler months. With tonnes of events and concerts lined up, there is something for everyone.
The National Day celebration in Abu Dhabi is much larger than in other Emirates, since it is the capital city.
Whether it’s a one-day or four-day visit, the Capital is full of activities and places to see.
Abu Dhabi has everything from the world’s fastest roller coaster on Yas Island to the world’s largest Sheikh Zayed Mosque.
We hope this article has provided some insight into where to be and how to be a part of the National Day celebration in Abu Dhabi. If you are planning a visit to any of the venues mentioned above for the National Day weekend?
Do let us know what you think of it, we would love to hear about your experiences in the comment section below.
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