On December 2nd, 2023, the UAE will celebrate its 52nd National Day, marking 52 years of unity and cooperation between the seven emirates. As the day is filled with the country celebrating and enjoying multiple activities such as fireworks, parades, and ceremonies, the citizens and visitors of the UAE commemorate the day when Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Ajman, Al-Ain, Sharjah, Umm al Quwain (and later Sharjah) merged into one nation under the guidance of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. He is known to be the proud founder of the UAE, guiding the country toward greatness and prosperity throughout generations.
With celebrations happening in every corner of the nation, it may be hard to choose where to go and what to do. Keep reading to find out the best places and activities to do on National Day, as well as any regulations and road closures that need to be accounted for during travels.
Fireworks for National Day
One of the most dazzling highlights of this festive occasion is the breathtaking fireworks displays that light up the skies across the country. To catch the best view and not miss out on such a grandiose event, here are the prime locations you should visit:
Best Spots To Watch Fireworks in Abu Dhabi
- Al Maryah Island
- Yas Bay Waterfront
- Al Wathba Sheikh Zayed Festival
- Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Best Spots To Watch Fireworks in Dubai
As the biggest fireworks show in UAE happens at Burj Khalifa, these are the best spots to watch it from if you don’t want to be stuck in a tight crowd right beside it:
- Boxpark
- Dubai Water Canal
- Business Bay
Other than Burj Khalifa, Dubai organized multiple fireworks shows for all of Dubai to see and enjoy at different locations. If you are not keen on traveling to Downtown Dubai during the busy day, here are some other locations where you can enjoy National Day:
- Burj Al Arab
- Global Village
- The Pointe & Atlantis
- Bluewaters Island
- Al Seef
Activities and Events During National Day
Citizens and visitors alike are invited to partake in a myriad of activities and events that promise to immerse everyone in the rich tapestry of Emirati culture and national pride. Offering a diverse range of experiences, including culinary delights, artistic expressions, and traditional celebrations, explore all the different ways that you can enjoy National Day to the fullest.
Magical Winterland
The Magical Winterland in Dubai sets the stage for a winter-themed fireworks display, with the explosions of light and color complementing the enchanting atmosphere, creating an immersive experience of winter and holiday spirit for attendees.
Art Exhibitions and Free Workshops
Dubai malls such as Nakheel Mall, Ibn Battuta Mall, and Circle Mall will provide their own celebration for the visitors.
- Nakheel Mall, in collaboration with the prominent digital art and marketing studio Future Bedouin, is set to host a nine-day art exhibition featuring AI-generated artworks that celebrate the rich history of the UAE.
- Children of all ages can come to Ibn Battuta Mall’s Egypt Court and enjoy the free workshops set for them. Activities such as rock painting, making bookend markers, and creating a sock puppet will be present during National Day. Meanwhile, the parents can go and enjoy some workshops themselves that include pot painting, designing their own t-shirts, and an opportunity to experience the traditional craft of Khoos weaving.
- For those who like to immerse themselves in national performances, Circle Mall will celebrate National Day by showing the Emirati Yola dance and a Liwa drum band, as well as having Modesh & Dana make an appearance.
Parades and Performances
Embark on a journey to City Walk for a captivating parade at the Coca-Cola Arena scheduled for Friday, December 1st. The parade promises an impressive lineup of over 200 participants, ranging from the Dubai Police and school children to various performers. The festive spirit persists into Saturday, December 2nd, with thrilling performances by Adel Ebrahim, and Sunday, December 3rd, where you’ll see the frontman of the Dubai-based soul band ABRI – Hamdan Al Abri, and Yamane El-Hage, a Lebanese superstar.
Time Out Market Dubai will have a performance by traditional Al Ayyala dancers on Saturday, December 2, and Sunday, December 3. Kids can take part in balloon bending or a week-long art exhibition produced by Artezaar.com founder Lenna Kewlani, which will add an extra festive element. The display will be operational through Monday, December 4. Additionally, if you’re artistic, you can enroll in Arabic calligraphy classes, or foodies can come and enjoy macarons decorated with the UAE flag.
National Day Sales
Did you miss out on Black Friday? Don’t worry. As the National Day rolls in, so do the National Day sales across the country. Multiple shops, souks, and bazaars will give you a price you just can not say no to.
What To Avoid
During the biggest holiday in the UAE, one must remember the road closures that may delay your arrival to the prime locations.
- Starting on Friday, December 1st, until Sunday, December 3rd, Sheikh Zayed Road will be closed from the Trade Centre Roundabout to the Expo Intersection between 7 am and 11 am due to National Day and COP28. Motorists can alternatively use Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Road, Emirates Road, Al Khail Road, Jumeirah Road, or Al Wasl Road to get to their destinations. Buses towards Abu Dhabi will be redirected as well. During this period, it is advised to use the metro instead to get around the city and visit celebrations across the country.
Remember to follow the laws set by the UAE government and not to break any regulations that are set for National Day:
- Marches and random gatherings
- Using party spray of all types by motorists, passengers, or pedestrians
- Writing phrases or putting inappropriate stickers on vehicles
- Exceeding the permitted vehicle occupancy limit
- Sticking your head out of the windows
- Motorists are not allowed to disrupt traffic or block others’ roads
- It is illegal to cover the side window, front, or rear windshields of the vehicle with stickers.
- Raising flags of any country other than the UAE’s
- Shop owners are not allowed to put up any posters or flags that don’t relate to UAE National Day
But MOST importantly, remember to enjoy the 3-day long holiday and celebrate the country that we are proud to live in!
Written by: Anastasia Makarycheva
