The ultimate guide to UAE National Day celebrations in Dubai

• UAE National Day Holiday
• Fireworks
• Programmes and Events
• Family-friendly Activities
• Dining Deals
• FAQs

The 54th UAE National Day, also known as Eid Al Etihad, is just around the corner and it’s time to celebrate the tremendous growth of the country we are all proud to call home! Several things are happening for National Day 2025 in Dubai to commemorate the union of the Trucial States. If you still haven’t figured out your holiday plans, we’ve got an exciting lineup of UAE National Day events in Dubai that will guarantee a fun-filled holiday. 

UAE NATIONAL DAY 2025: EID AL ETIHAD

The UAE National Day, now known as Eid Al Etihad, is celebrated on 2nd December every year. It commemorates the formal nationalisation of all seven emirates in 1971. Like all before it, this year is a celebration of this wonderful union.

With the official UAE public holidays set for 1st and 2nd December 2025, communities across the country are preparing for a cheerful four-day break filled with festivities, colour and national pride.

WATCH THE 2025 UAE NATIONAL DAY FIREWORKS IN DUBAI

Where can I watch UAE National Day fireworks in Dubai?

The UAE National Day fireworks displays are always highly anticipated by the Dubai residents.

You can watch the fireworks at:

• Festival Bay: Be at the Dubai Festival City Mall waterfront on 2nd December at 08:00 pm to watch fireworks light up the night.
• Bluewaters Island: The man-made islands will host a spectacular fireworks show on December 2nd at 09:00 pm. Take part in the festivities till the day after. Activities include henna applications, shopping for traditional products and more at Bluewaters Island.
• Al Seef (Dubai Creek): Watch the fireworks on 2nd December at 09:00 pm at this creek-side destination in Dubai.
• The Beach (JBR): On 2nd December at 09:00 pm, the fireworks at The Beach JBR will mesmerise the populace. Bring the whole family and enjoy the many attractions at the end of the walkway.
• Global Village: Global Village is set to host dazzling UAE National Day fireworks from 1st to 3rd December at 09:00 pm. You can also enjoy an immersive UAE-theme drone show on 1st and 2nd December.
• Hatta Sign: Watch the fireworks on 2nd December at 08:00 pm at this scenic mountain destination in Dubai.

THINGS TO DO ON UAE NATIONAL DAY IN DUBAI 2025

There are plenty of things to do in Dubai on Eid Al Etihad this year. Choose your favourite from the following Dubai National Day holiday activities list.

National Day Activities at Downtown Dubai: Burj Khalifa Light Show

The country’s most famous landmark lights up with the UAE flag colours every year, and this year looks to be no different! The Dubai Fountains will accompany the UAE-themed light show at Burj Khalifa by swaying to local ballads and music. It’s among the light shows in Dubai that everyone looks forward to!

• Location: Burj Khalifa and the Dancing Fountain in Downtown Dubai
• Price: Free

Parade at City Walk

Among the best UAE National Day activities in Dubai, the Eid Al Etihad Parade on 1st December, from 04:00 pm at City Walk stands out for its vibrant atmosphere. More than a thousand participants from Dubai Police, KHDA and government bodies march through the boulevard, creating a moving display of unity and pride.

Celebrate with music in concert

With UAE National Day 2025 comes many spectacular artists hosting concerts in the city. Here are some of the most exciting ones in Dubai:

Balqees live at Festival Bay

Celebrate the 54th Eid Al Etihad with Balqees at Festival Bay, one of the standout national day events in Dubai. Enjoy an evening of powerful vocals, beloved hits and a vibrant crowd at Dubai Festival City Mall. The night ends with a dazzling fireworks show, creating a fitting tribute to the UAE’s proud spirit.

• Location: Festival Bay, Dubai Festival City Mall
• Price: AED 75 – AED 200
• Date and Time: 2nd December, 08:10 pm

Live concerts at City Walk

City Walk is set to buzz with music as part of the must see events in Dubai for National Day. Diana Haddad will light up the stage on 1st December, while Shamma Hamdan brings her powerful vocals to the venue on 2nd December. Both concerts are free, so you can simply show up and enjoy.

• Location: City Walk
• Price: Free
• Date and Time: 1st and 2nd December, 08:00 pm

FAMILY-FRIENDLY THINGS TO DO FOR UAE NATIONAL DAY 2025

Another great thing about the UAE National Day celebrations is that many popular retail and dining destinations host exciting activities. Here are some things to do for UAE National Day in Dubai across the popular hotspots in the city.

EXPERIENCE A DESERT ADVENTURE

A desert adventure is among the best things to do for UAE National Day. And what could be better than gathering the family and heading out to Sonara Camp for the long holiday?

This premium spot offers feasts carefully curated by their resident chef. Besides a delicious dinner spread, visitors can go on camel rides, try volleyball, archery, sandboarding, a falcon show, soft archery and more. These activities truly exemplify some of the country’s best characteristics. Choose from various packages available.

• Location: Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Al Ain Road, Margham Gate
• Contact: +971-50-336-7909 

Walk around Global Village

What better place for some fun with your family than Global Village, the international fair with pavilions for different countries. From 27th November to 3rd December, explore ten immersive cultural installations, marvel at live performances and enjoy a special concert by Khalid Mohammed on 1st December.

The main stage hosts the enchanting operetta “From The Desert To The Stars” twice daily from 1st to 3rd December, complemented by spectacular nightly fireworks and drone shows.

If you decide on strolling along instead of joining the crowds, you’ll find yourself surrounded by UAE themes – with the UAE Pavillion offering the best of the country’s food, clothing and more.

• Location: Global Village
• Ticket: AED 25 for weekdays, AED 30 for weekends
• Contact: +971-4-362-4114

Get outdoorsy at Hatta Wadi Hub

Looking for some National Day fun? Hatta Wadi Hub is a top spot among places to visit in Dubai on National Day for families and adventure junkies alike. This National Day, enjoy 50% off all outdoor packages and make memories without stretching your wallet. Cap the day off with a dazzling fireworks show at 08:00 pm on 2nd December, for an extraordinary celebration.

• Location: Hatta Wadi Hub
• Contact: +971-50-136-0085

HEAD TO UAE Flag Garden

Celebrate the UAE’s rich heritage at the UAE Flag Garden, a true symbol of national pride. As one of the top places to visit in Dubai on National Day, the venue offers thousands of fluttering flags at Umm Suqeim Beach alongside the iconic Burj Al Arab. Open until 10th January 2026, this free park highlights the UAE’s journey and achievements, inviting visitors to connect with the nation’s spirit in a colourful and unforgettable setting.

• Location: Umm Suqeim Beach

Visit top malls of Dubai

The popular malls in Dubai are buzzing with fun, food and festivities you won’t want to miss this National Day!

• Dubai Festival City Mall: Earn double BLUE points from 28th November to 2nd December on spending AED 1,000–10,000 at apparel stores. Enjoy a lively food market at The Bay by Social, plus carnival games, archery, axe throwing, cultural events, comedy nights, workshops and interactive art installations.
• City Centre Mirdif: Celebrate the 54th UAE National Day from 28th November to 3rd December with fashion shows, interactive workshops, live cultural performances and heritage-inspired activities like tote bag customisation and pottery.
• Ibn Battuta Mall: Experience UAE culture from 1st to 3rd December with art, poetry, music, interactive digital zones, live shows and family workshops under the theme “Expressions with Art.”
• Other Malls: Snap up deals, discounts and unforgettable experiences across Dubai’s popular shopping spots.

Other places to visit

• Celebrate the 54th Eid Al Etihad by visiting some of Dubai’s most popular museums and heritage sites during the National Day holidays. Al Shindaga Museum, Al Fahidi Historial Neighbourhood and Hatta Heritage Village will also host various cultural shows, worskhops and other activities to value Emirati traditions.
• Watch the iconic Dubai Frame illuminated in UAE flag colours while enjoying traditional performances on 2nd and 3rd December.
• Experience thrilling military band performances and horse shows on 2nd and 3rd December in the scenic surroundings of Mushrif Park.

Dining to celebrate

Among the many things to do in Dubai on National Day, nothing beats tucking into your favourite dishes. If you’re ready for a tasty celebration, these places are serving up National Day feasts.

Enjoy Dubai Burger- Eid Al Etihad Special

Dubai’s vibrant food scene takes centre stage this Eid Al Etihad with Dubai Burger, a citywide celebration of flavour and creativity. Selected burger joints are crafting limited-edition burgers inspired by Emirati ingredients, giving a fresh twist to a beloved classic.

From High Joint and Sfumato to Hoe Lee Kow, Izu Burger and Eat Beaf, each venue presents its own tribute to the UAE’s culinary heritage. Enjoy these exclusive creations available only during the 54th Eid Al Etihad festivities.

Palazzo Versace Dubai

Make UAE’s 54th National Day unforgettable at Palazzo Versace, one of the top luxury hotels in Dubai. Book dinner for two at any of hotel’s restaurant and claim a guaranteed return flight ticket for one person to your chosen destination. Exceptional dining, glamorous surroundings and a bonus holiday — an offer too good to miss!

• Location: Al Jaddaf Waterfront 
• Contact: +971-4-556-8888

Grand Gourmet Restaurant

It’s time to honour the UAE’s big day with a delicious spread at Grand Gourmet. Tuck into an international lunch buffet for only AED 69 and enjoy a cheerful mix of flavours. Bring friends, family and a hearty appetite for a midday feast that blends global tastes with warm hospitality.

• Price: AED 69 per person | AED 35 for kids aged 5 to 11 years
• Date & Time: 11:30 am to 03:30 pm (1st – 3rd December 2025)
• Location: Asiana Grand Hotel, Deira Dubai
• Contact: +971-50-509-9383

Nazcaa

Celebrate National Day in Dubai at Nazcaa, where the atmosphere feels just as warm as the occasion. With views of the Burj Khalifa and a menu created especially for the day, it’s the perfect place to enjoy good food, great company and the spirit of the nation.

• Price: Contact the venue
• Location: 12th Floor, Address Dubai Mall
• Contact: +971-4-542-4200

FAQs

WHAT HAPPENS DURING THE UAE NATIONAL DAY CELEBRATION?

The UAE National Day offers everyone in the country a chance to celebrate the union of the emirates and experience some of the best aspects of Emirati culture. Like every year, there are several UAE National Day offers and events for you to look forward to. From dazzling fireworks to mega sales, staycation deals and much more, Dubai is abuzz with things to do and activities to celebrate.

HOW IS THE UAE NATIONAL DAY CELEBRATED IN ABU DHABI?

Find out more about this event with this complete list of UAE National Day events in Abu Dhabi.

WHERE TO GET THEMED DECORATIONS FOR THE UAE NATIONAL DAY IN DUBAI?

There are plenty of places where you can find decorative products. Shops like Carrefour will have plenty of budget options for UAE-themed decorations. If you want to take it up a notch, you can check out a Day to Day near you for affordable National Day-themed decor.

There you have it! A list of all the things to do in Dubai on National Day. If you are heading to any of these events, gear up with loads of UAE flags and dress up in the national colours to make it even more special. There are plenty of options for UAE National Day staycation offers in Dubai. The top hotels and resorts also have amazing discounts for the big day.

Featured Image Credits: Global Village Official Website