UAE National Day Holidays Announced! Get Ready for the Long Weekend

The UAE celebrates its 54th Union Day with a thrilling four-day holiday. Residents are eagerly planning their long weekend getaways, from relaxing staycations in Dubai to exciting overseas trips.

It’s official! The countdown to one of the most anticipated breaks of the year is on. UAE National Day (Eid Al Etihad) is just around the corner, promising every resident a magnificent four-day weekend filled with history, fireworks, and celebration!

Your 4-Day Holiday Dates are Locked In

Following the official announcement, the UAE will observe a public holiday on Monday, December 1st, and Tuesday, December 2nd.

Combined with the standard weekend, this gives everyone—in both the public and private sectors—a glorious four-day break, running from Saturday, November 29th, until Tuesday, December 2nd.

Now that your leave is confirmed, it's time to plan how you'll make the most of this special occasion!

The Spirit of the Union: Celebrating 54 Years of Transformation

This year, the UAE marks its 54th anniversary, an incredible milestone celebrating the formation of the nation on December 2, 1971. This day is officially known as Eid Al Etihad—the Festival of the Union.

The holiday is a moment to honor the vision of the Founding Fathers, led by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who transformed seven Trucial States into a dynamic, modern global powerhouse in just over five decades. From a pearling economy to a hub for space exploration and global finance, the UAE’s journey is truly one of the world's most remarkable success stories.

The Vibe: Shopping Frenzy or Island Getaway?

What's on the minds of UAE residents this long weekend? It’s a mix of retail therapy and recharging:

a)The Travel Bug: Many residents are using the extended break to travel abroad, booking quick trips to recharge their batteries, as confirmed by the spike in airport bookings.

b)The Local Escape: For those staying put, the trend is toward local staycations. Think coastal resorts, mountainous retreats in Hatta, or luxurious city hotels offering special holiday deals.

c)The Shopping Spree: The long weekend coincides with major retail festivals. Expect malls like Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates to be decked out in patriotic colours and offering significant National Day discounts—perfect for a bit of retail therapy!

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Where to Catch the Grand Celebrations

Every emirate lights up, but here are the hotspots for the biggest celebrations:

a) Dubai: The place to be for show-stopping fireworks! Don't miss the pyrotechnics at Burj Khalifa and the special shows planned at Global Village on December 1st and 2nd. Also, explore the cultural events at Expo City Dubai.

b) Abu Dhabi: Look out for spectacular air shows by the Al Fursan aerobatics team and major fireworks displays over the Yas Island waterfront and the Corniche.

c) Sharjah: Known for its deep commitment to culture, Sharjah hosts extensive heritage parades and artistic community activities, often starting well before the main holiday dates.

10 Must-Do Activities to Plan for Your Long Weekend

Maximize your four days off with this curated list of activities:

1) Witness the Fireworks: A non-negotiable must-do! Check local listings for timings at Burj Khalifa, Global Village, or Yas Island.

2) Visit the Etihad Museum: Learn the story of the Union and see where the historic agreement was signed.

3) Explore Old Dubai: Take an abra ride across Dubai Creek and wander through the textiles and spice souqs.

4) Tour Al Fahidi Fort & Dubai Museum: Step back in time at Dubai's oldest structure (built circa 1787) and see life-size dioramas of old Dubai life, including pearl diving and Bedouin camps.

5) Go on a Desert Safari: Enjoy a thrilling dune bashing experience followed by a traditional dinner and cultural performances.

6) Catch an Air Show: If scheduled, watching the Al Fursan jets paint the sky in the colours of the flag is unforgettable.

7) Take a Day Trip to Hatta: Enjoy the cooler weather by hiking or kayaking in the scenic mountain region.

8) See the Flag Garden: Visit patriotic flag installations, a perfect photo opportunity.

9) Shop the Sales: Hit the major malls for the best National Day retail promotions.

10) Indulge in Emirati Cuisine: Seek out a local restaurant to enjoy traditional dishes like Machboos (spiced rice and meat) and sweet Luqaimat dumplings.

Conclusion

As the UAE gears up to celebrate its 54th anniversary, take full advantage of this generous four-day weekend! Whether you’re cheering on a parade, enjoying the mega sales, embarking on a desert adventure, or simply spending quality time with family, this holiday is a vibrant reflection of the UAE's incredible journey and the Spirit of the Union.

However you choose to celebrate Eid Al Etihad, start booking those plans now to secure your perfect spot. Happy National Day, and enjoy the well-deserved break!

FAQs

Q1. When is the UAE National Day holiday?

The UAE National Day holiday is scheduled to start on December 1st and will be a 4-day break.

Q2. How many days off will I get?

You will get 4 days off, including the weekend.

Q3. What are the dates of the long weekend?

The long weekend is scheduled to start on 29th November and will end on December 2nd.

Q4. Will there be any events or celebrations?

Yes, there will be several events and celebrations across the UAE, including fireworks, parades, and cultural performances. There will be special fireworks in Global Village on December 1st and December 2nd.