Eid Al Etihad: Your Ultimate Guide To UAE National Day Weekend Celebrations

Alifiya H Ujjainwala
Alifiya H Ujjainwala

Celebrate the UAE National Day, here's your guide

There is a lot of excitement about the upcoming Eid Al Etihad holidays. Families are already making calls, browsing through events, and marking their calendars to make the most of the long weekend. Here’s a complete guide to how the UAE will sparkle with numerous activities in the pipeline.

Official Ceremony

The official ceremony for National Day 2024 will be held amidst the landscapes of Al Ain, a city deeply cherished by the people of the UAE. The celebrations will be taking place on December 2 and will be broadcast live across the UAE via local TV channels, cinemas, and select public viewing areas. Information on the locations for these public viewings will be out shortly.

Fireworks

Dubai’s skyline will light up with fireworks displays during the Eid Al Etihad weekend. On December 1, Bluewaters Island and The Beach at JBR will illuminate the night at 8 pm. On December 2, Hatta will sparkle at 8 pm., followed by a display at Dubai Festival City Mall at 9:10 pm. The celebrations will conclude on December 3 at Al Seef at 9 pm.

Eid Al Etihad 53 at City Walk

On December 2 at 4 pm., Eid Al Etihad 53 at City Walk will feature over 200 performers, including flag bearers, fabric dancers, acrobats, traditional bands, and interactive acts. The celebrations will conclude with a special performance by Emirati singer, songwriter, and producer Mohamed Al Shehhi, accompanied by a breathtaking 10-member live band from 8 pm. to 9 pm.

Malls Light Up

Ibn Battuta Mall and Future Bedouin will host the UAE Reimagined Exhibition, a three-day event showcasing innovative artwork that honors the UAE’s heritage. From December 1 to 3, between 2 pm. and 10 pm., visitors can enjoy activities such as workshops for children, burqa decorating, Khezran stick painting, bracelet making, henna art, face painting, and traditional live music.

Dubai Festival City Mall will join the celebrations on December 2 with a live concert by Aryam at 8 pm., captivating roaming entertainment from 5:30 pm. to 10 pm., festive decorations in the mall’s Festival Square, and a spectacular fireworks display over Festival Bay at 9:10 pm.

Global Village’s “Hawa Emirati” Operetta

Global Village will welcome families and friends to experience the grand “Hawa Emirati” Operetta on the Main Stage from December 1 to 3, followed by a dazzling fireworks display at 9:00 pm. More so, the UAE Pavilion, “971 From the Community” Pavilion, and “Khalifa Foundation” Pavilion will illuminate rich cultural experiences, authentic Emirati flavors, and unique shopping opportunities.

11th edition of the Flag Garden

Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office, has unveiled the 11th edition of the Flag Garden at Jumeirah Beach, Umm Suqeim 2, coinciding with UAE Flag Day on November 3 and Eid Al Etihad on December 2. This year’s Flag Garden features an awe-inspiring display of 11,600 UAE flags arranged to form aerial portraits of the country’s Founding Fathers, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum. Visitors get an opportunity to celebrate the UAE’s heritage and the remarkable contributions of its leaders.

Credit: Government of Dubai Media Office

Offers:

Bling Bingo, Dubai’s take on the chance to win big

Created by KMH Events and featuring DJ Superfly, the newest highlight on Dubai’s nightlife calendar combines the best old-school RnB and garage music with excellent food and incredible prizes – think diamonds, yacht experiences, F1 tickets, and Chanel. Bling Bingo is making its debut at Players House, Andaz Dubai the Palm, on Friday 29th November with plans to make this a regular event, packages start from AED200.

Pura Eco Retreat at Jebel Hafit Desert Park 

Pura Eco Retreat at Jebel Hafit Desert Park has reopened for its fifth season, offering a unique blend of luxury and nature in Al Ain’s UNESCO World Heritage site. Just a short drive from Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the retreat provides a variety of upscale accommodations, including heritage tents, domes, and deluxe lodges, complete with private plunge pools and panoramic views. Guests can enjoy a range of activities such as mountain biking, camel rides, and visits to historical tombs, alongside special dining experiences like the ‘Fruits de Mer’ seafood platter and ‘Pura Tea-Time Elegance.’ With its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and bespoke adventures, Pura Eco Retreat promises an unforgettable getaway.

Nando’s Special Offer

If an Emirati turned 53 this year, Nando’s has a special treat for them. Hop on to any of their branches across the UAE on December 1 and 2. In celebration, the South African chain is offering a free main course to make these holidays even happening. However, to avail of these offers, one must have an Emirates ID.