Still haven’t decided what you want to do in celebration of the 54th UAE National Day? This year it’s a 4-day public holiday, so plenty to do indeed.
It’s the time of year when you can spot the colors of the UAE national flag everywhere you go.
Trust us when we say it’s not just the decorations that will leave you in awe, there are many events, offers, and activities to check out!
UAE National Day Dates
Sunday, November 30th is UAE Commemoration Day. Monday, December 1st and Tuesday, December 2nd, 2025, are UAE National Day holidays.
With the weekend, it’s a 4-day break!
The UAE National Day holiday 2025 is just around the corner! Here are the top things to do for Emirates National Day this year:
Dubai
1. Choose a Spot to Enjoy the Fireworks
So, why do we celebrate UAE National Day? The city’s biggest festival is in honor of the official 1971 nationalization of the 7 emirates of the UAE, and you can expect fireworks!
There’s no doubt they will be as extravagant as ever in pure UAE fashion. The iconic skyline will light up for the UAE National Day 2025 (also known as Union Day or Commemoration Day) at these locations starting from December 2nd:
Dubai
| Location | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Bluewaters | Tuesday, December 2 | 9:00 pm |
| Dubai Festival City Mall (Festival Bay) | Tuesday, December 2 | 8:00 pm |
| Global Village | Monday, December 1 – Wednesday, December 3 | 9:00 pm (daily) |
| Souk Al Seef | Tuesday, December 2 | 9:00 pm |
| The Beach, JBR | Tuesday, December 2 | 9:00 pm |
Abu Dhabi
| Location | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Emirates Palace, West Corniche | Tuesday, December 2 | 9:15 pm |
| MOTN Festival (Al Ain & Al Dhafra) | Tuesday, December 2 | Timings TBC |
| Sheikh Zayed Festival, Al Wathba | Monday December 1 – Wednesday December 3 | Timings TBC |
| Yas Bay Waterfront | Monday December 1 – Wednesday December 3 | 9:00 pm (daily) |
2. Head to Downtown Dubai
Burj Khalifa is known for its LED displays, so don’t miss the stunning show between 6 and 9 pm, as the tallest building in the world gets all glittered up in red, green, white, and black.
The best seat in the house is right by the Dubai Fountain, where the waters will dance to the UAE national anthem and other national songs.
Visiting Downtown Dubai on the UAE national day is the best thing to do on the weekend for celebrating.
Location
It’s located on Financial Center road, Dubai.
3. Travel the World at Global Village
Global Village never fails to impress, with stalls from all over the world, it’s a shopping experience unsurpassed by any other, not forgetting the plethora of food from every corner of the world.
Additionally, this destination is hosting a series of live musical concerts every Friday, so you can celebrate the UAE national day in the festive atmosphere there.
Location
It’s located on Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed road, Dubai.
Relying on public transport to get there? Find out how to get to Global village by metro or bus!
Prices
30 AED/person
Opening Hours
4 pm – 12 am daily
4. Take a Stroll at Dubai Miracle Garden
There’s no better spot to celebrate rather than Dubai Miracle Garden. You will enjoy walking around thousands of colorful flowers in numerous shapes.
You’re going to relish the different themes of its various attractions which never fail to impress us every year.
Not just that, you shouldn’t miss passing by its neighbouring gem, the Butterfly Garden, to see thousands of cute butterflies in yellow, orange, and brown.
Location
It’s located in Al Barsha South 3, Dubai. Dubai Butterfly Garden is next to it.
Find out how to go to Dubai Miracle Garden by Metro if you’re using public transport!
Prices
Dubai Miracle Garden ticket
- AED 100/adult
- AED 80/ kid (3 to 12)
Dubai Butterfly Garden ticket
- AED 70/adult
- AED 50/ kid (3 to 12)
Opening Hours
- Dubai Miracle Garden: 9 am – 11 pm on weekdays; 9 am – 12 am on weekends
- Dubai Butterfly Garden: 9 am – 6 pm daily
5. Witness Greatness at La Perle
Award-winning aquatic show La Perle by Dragone is one of the most mesmerizing performances you could ever watch.
Located at Al Habtoor City, La Perle made headlines when it came to Dubai as the region’s very first permanent show. Combining artistry, creativity, and technology, you will be at a loss for words.
It will be a UAE National Day celebration like no other.
Location
It’s located on Sheikh Zayed road, Al Habtoor City, Dubai.
Prices
Tickets (Show Only):
- Bronze: AED 260
- Silver: AED 320
- Gold: AED 430
- Platinum: AED 620
- VIP: AED 910
6. Enjoy a Great Laser Show at Dubai Festival City
Another idea for where to go on UAE National Day 2025 is definitely Dubai Festival City. They will also have an exclusive themed laser show at Festival Bay called IMAGINE show during the national day holidays.
You will enjoy its bold and colorful laser rays and lights making the patterns of Al Sadu with specifically picked Arbain pieces of music.
Location
It’s located on Al Rebat street, Dubai.
Abu Dhabi
1. Have Fun at Yas Island
If you’re looking for excitement this UAE National Day, Yas Island is always a top choice. Home to some of Abu Dhabi’s most iconic attractions, it’s the perfect place to enjoy the long weekend with family and friends.
From world-class theme parks like Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi to stunning beaches, dining spots, and entertainment venues, Yas Island has no shortage of things to do.
Location
It’s located in Abu Dhabi, with all major attractions spread across Yas Island
Note: You can book the offer online through Yas Island’s official website.
2. Feel the Festive Spirit at Emirates Palace
How about enjoying a staycation? You can enjoy this long weekend at Emirates Palace.
This iconic hotel is hosting numerous shows and events to celebrate the UAE National Day like never before. There are many fun things to do for adults and kids so everyone has a joyful time.
In addition, if you booked starting from December 2nd you will be able to watch the impressive fireworks from this distinct spot. Hurry up to catch their cool offer!
Location
It’s located on W Corniche road, Al Ras Al Akhdar, Abu Dhabi.
Prices
Room rates start at AED 2,500/night (including breakfast for two and an option to choose between afternoon tea or a meal at Cafe Fountain) from November 29th to December 2nd, 2025.
3. See Different Artworks at the Louvre Museum
For a cultural and artistic way to celebrate the UAE’s National Day, the Louvre museum is a wonderful choice. This iconic spot is hosting a series of special performances and talks under its breathtaking dome, making it an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.
From December 1st to 4th, you can enjoy performances by Emirati artists as they showcase music and cultural expressions that reflect the nation’s rich heritage. In addition, the museum will feature an immersive talk led by senior Emiratis who accompanied the Late Sheikh Zayed Al Nahyan during his lifetime, offering a rare opportunity to hear first-hand stories about the country’s founding years.
All these events are included free with your museum admission ticket, allowing you to soak in the celebrations in a setting that’s as inspiring as it is serene.
Location
It’s located on Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi.
Prices
AED 65/person
Opening Hours
Weekdays: 10:00 am – 6:30 pm
Weekends: 10:00am – 8:30pm
4. Chill at Yas Bay Waterfront
If you’re spending the UAE National Day long weekend in Abu Dhabi, Yas Bay Waterfront is one of the most exciting places to be. This vibrant destination is hosting Eid Al Etihad 54, a two-day celebration filled with culture, creativity, and family-friendly fun.
Across December 1st and 2nd, Yas Bay will transform into a lively festival space with immersive themed zones that take you through the UAE’s past, present, and future. You’ll find everything from nostalgic 1980s promenades and traditional Emirati handcrafts to imaginative play areas for kids and a local flavours market full of authentic bites.
Live performances, cultural shows, and heritage-led entertainment will bring the spirit of the nation to life throughout the day. And the highlight? Each evening ends with a spectacular fireworks display at 9 PM, lighting up the waterfront skyline in a dazzling tribute to the UAE.
Location
It’s located on Yas West, Yas Island, Dubai.
Dates
1 – 2 December 2025
Timings
3 PM – 9 PM
Entry
Free (registration required)
5. Visit Qasr Al Watan for History, Heritage & Lights
If you’re in Abu Dhabi during the National Day long weekend and want something elegant and meaningful, Qasr Al Watan stands out as a must-visit. This grand Presidential Palace is more than just an architectural marvel. It offers a deep dive into the heritage, governance, and cultural journey of the UAE, making it a fitting tribute to the spirit of the union.
Typically, Qasr Al Watan is open during the day, and light-show ticketing is available separately. Entry offers a culturally rich and peaceful alternative to the bustle of fireworks and crowds.
This option works especially well for families or visitors who appreciate history, beautiful architecture and a quieter, more meaningful way to honour the union. A calm yet uplifting break from the usual celebrations.
Location
Al Ras Al Akhdar – Abu Dhabi
There are more ways than one to join the festivities in UAE happening that suit everybody’s preferences. It’s time to have fun and celebrate the country that’s become so dear to our hearts. Happy UAE National Day!
Key Takeaways
UAE National Day 2025 brings with it a four-day holiday, giving residents and visitors plenty of time to explore the celebrations across Dubai and Abu Dhabi. From dazzling fireworks at iconic landmarks and cultural performances under the Louvre Abu Dhabi dome to family-friendly festivals at Yas Bay Waterfront and vibrant shows in Downtown Dubai, the long weekend is filled with activities for every preference.
Whether you choose to enjoy theme parks, heritage sites, artistic showcases, or simply soak in the festive atmosphere across the city, there are countless ways to honour the spirit of the union and celebrate this special occasion.
FAQs
You can catch the National Day fireworks at several popular spots across Dubai, including Bluewaters, Dubai Festival City Mall, Global Village, Souk Al Seef, and The Beach, JBR. Each location will light up the sky with spectacular displays in celebration of the UAE’s union.
Families can enjoy a fun-filled National Day at places like Global Village, Dubai Miracle Garden, and Yas Bay Waterfront, where attractions, themed zones, and cultural performances make it ideal for children. These spots offer a lively, welcoming atmosphere with plenty of entertainment to keep the little ones engaged.
Most Dubai locations host their fireworks shows at 9:00 pm, while Dubai Festival City Mall begins earlier at 8:00 pm. In Abu Dhabi, timings vary, with Emirates Palace starting at 9:15 pm and other destinations hosting shows throughout the evening.
