UAE National Day is upon us, and as always, Dubai is going all out with a myriad of unmissable events. Want to watch a firework show? Have a fancy dinner? Or are you in the mood for catching a live performance? Don’t worry, no matter what you would like to do to celebrate Eid Al Etihad, there is an event for it.
In this guide, we will explore the top events celebrating the UAE National Day in Dubai to help you pick the best one to attend.
- Traditional Celebrations
- Family-friendly National Day Events in Dubai
- Shopping Mall Events
- Fireworks Shows Across Dubai
- Unique National Day Events in Dubai
- Key Takeaways
- FAQs
Traditional Celebrations
National Day in Dubai is about connecting with Emirati heritage. Live performances showcase traditional dances, music, and cultural rituals, offering both tourists and residents an opportunity to experience local traditions.
Ayala & Harbiya Performances at Hatta
Celebrations come hand in hand with dancing. And there is no better way to celebrate the National Day in Dubai than enjoying live Emirati traditional dances. Whether you are a tourist wanting to learn about the traditional Ayala & Harbiy dances or a citizen looking for a fun way to celebrate, head out to Hatta for a good time.
Dates
December 1 and 2 in the Afternoon
Location
Hatta Heritage Village, Hatta
Dubai Frame
Speaking of dances, Dubai Frame is celebrating differently in 2025 with a fireworks show and traditional cultural performances. Also, the landmark will light up in the UAE flag colours!
Dates
December 2 and 3
Location
Zabeel Park
Family-friendly National Day Events in Dubai
National Day celebrations are perfect for families with activities, picnics, and shows designed for all ages.
Mushrif Park
For two days, Mushrif Park will be hosting one-of-a-kind military band performances and horse shows. Families can spend a whole day at the park taking in the beauty of nature, having a picnic, indulging in fun activities, and finally catching the unique shows.
Dates
December 2 and 3
Location
Al Khawaneej St, Mirdif
Hatta Village Children’s Camp
Sorry parents, this one is just for the kids. Hatta Heritage Village is offering several camps for children aged 7-12, ‘Hatta’s Little Explorers’, in celebration of the UAE’s National Day. The final camp aligns with the UAE’s 54th Union Day and will feature creative, community-focused activities designed to strengthen national pride and a sense of belonging.
This is a chance for the new generation to learn about the heritage, history, and unique environment of Hatta in Dubai.
Dates
Four weekends from November 15 to December 3
Location
Hatta Heritage Village, Hatta
Shopping Mall Events
If you didn’t have time to shop on Black Friday and want to combine celebrations with some retail therapy, then the following events are for you:
- Ibn Battuta Mall: The renowned mall will feature fun activities like henna, face‑painting, creative workshops, and family‑oriented entertainment between December 2 and 4.
- Palm Jumeirah Mall: Enjoy special Union Day–themed celebrations on December 2. The mall will be decorated for the occasion and will feature cultural showcases and a festive atmosphere for the day.
- Nad Al Sheba Mall: Popups, interactive entertainment, and family-friendly fun await you at Nad Al Sheba Mall from November 14 to December 7.
Unique National Day Events in Dubai
Looking for something a bit different this year? We know that celebrations can get a bit boring if you are doing the same activities every year. Here are some unique National Day 2025 events and activities in Dubai.
UAE National Day Special Course at KEN by Kamatsuda
In honour of the 54th UAE National Day, KEN by Kamatsuda is offering a special, limited-time menu featuring a curated sushi flow, wagyu hamburger or steak, Japanese amuse-bouche, and, most importantly, a UAE Flag luxury bowl and a special dessert.
- Price: AED 1350 per person
- Dates: November 28 – December 3 (except December 1)
Contact
+971 4 570 4316
Location
The Dubai Edition Hotel, Dubai Fountain St, Downtown Dubai
Delano Dubai
Why limit your celebrations to one event when you can turn it into a whole weekend? Delano Dubai has a special offer for the UAE National Day, allowing you to enjoy the long weekend with discounted rates.
If you choose to get a room for the weekend, you can get up to a 20% discount and a complimentary breakfast. Day pass rates are also reduced if you can’t stay for the whole weekend.
Contact
+971 4 556 6255
Location
Bluewaters, Marsa Dubai
Fireworks Shows Across Dubai
Fireworks remain the highlight of UAE National Day celebrations. Dubai hosts multiple shows across popular destinations, with each location offering a unique backdrop. The most-anticipated fireworks shows for National Day include:
- Burj Khalifa: Expect the city’s most iconic fireworks display lighting up the world’s tallest tower after 11 PM. Crowds get extremely busy there, so plan to arrive well before the show.
- Global Village: At 9 PM, you can watch a world-class fireworks show. But before that, you can make a day out of it and explore pavilions, rides, food kiosks, and festive shows.
- Hatta Village: Catch a spectacular fireworks show by the iconic Hatta Sign on December 2 at 8 PM.
- The Beach, JBR: You can end your seaside evening with fireworks over the water at 9 PM. Expect a casual, beachy atmosphere with plenty of cafés and shops to catch the show from.
Key Takeaways
UAE National Day is more than a public holiday and a long weekend. It’s a citywide celebration filled with culture, entertainment, and unforgettable moments. From traditional Ayala and Harbiya dances in Hatta to the lively military band shows at Mushrif Park, you’ll find plenty of National Day events in Dubai to reconnect with the country’s heritage.
Also, this year, the shopping malls are stepping up with specially curated activities, themed décor, performances, and interactive workshops that create a festive atmosphere for shoppers of all ages. On the same note, the city’s extraordinary dining scene is joining in, offering unique menus, limited-time experiences, and special National Day-only offers.
Of course, no National Day in Dubai is complete without the fireworks. With shows lighting up iconic locations like Burj Khalifa, Global Village, The Beach at JBR, and even Hatta itself, you can choose any backdrop you want.
FAQs
During National Day in Dubai, you can enjoy fireworks at Burj Khalifa, cultural performances at Hatta Heritage Village, family fun at malls and parks, or unique dining experiences at hotels like KEN by Kamatsuda and Delano Dubai.
There are numerous fireworks shows in Dubai for the UAE National Day, including ones at Burj Khalifa, Global Village, Palm Jumeirah, Al Seef and Hatta.
No, many events run across multiple days from late November to December 3, including camps, mall shows, and hotel offers.
Yes, the traditional dances at Hatta Heritage Village are free, but arriving early is recommended.
Children can enjoy workshops, face-painting, and themed camps at malls like Ibn Battuta and Nad Al Sheba, or attend Hatta’s Little Explorers camp.
