Top Things to Do on UAE National Day Holiday

Still haven’t decided what you want to do in celebration of the 51th 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 commemoration day

UAE National Day Dates

Thursday, December 1st is UAE Commemoration Day. Friday, December 2nd and Saturday, December 3rd, 2022, are UAE National Day holidays. 

With the weekend, it’s a 4-day break!

The UAE National Day holiday 2022 is just around the corner! Here are the top things to do for Emirates National Day this year:

UAE National Day

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 2022 (also known as Union Day or Commemoration Day) at these locations starting from December 2nd:

Dubai 

  • Al Seef (7 pm to 9 pm)
  • Festival Bay (9 pm)
  • The Beach (8 pm)
  • Bluewaters (8 pm)
  • The Pointe (9 pm)

Abu Dhabi 

  • Al Maryah Island (9 pm)
  • Al Wathba (4 pm to 1 am)
  • Bawabat Al Sharq Mall (9 pm)
  • Emirates Palace (9 pm)
  • Yas Island (9 pm)
uae national day activities

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. 

uae national day long weekend

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. 

Prices 

15 AED/person

Opening Hours 

4 pm – 1 am daily 

Uae national day celebration

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. 

Prices  

Dubai Miracle Garden ticket 

  • AED 55/adult
  • AED 40/ kid (3 to 12)

Dubai Butterfly Garden ticket 

  • AED 55/adult
  • AED 55/ kid (3 to 12)

Opening Hours 

  • Dubai Miracle Garden: 9 am – 9 pm on weekdays; 9 am – 11 pm on weekends 
  • Dubai Butterfly Garden: 9 am – 6 pm daily
things to do in UAE national day

 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:

  • Bronze: AED 260
  • Silver: AED 309
  • Gold: AED 360
  • Platinum: AED 460
  • VIP: AED 800
uae national day 2020

6. Enjoy a Great Laser Show at Dubai Festival City

Another idea for where to go on UAE National Day 2022 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. 

uae national day public holiday

Location 

It’s located on Al Rebat street, Dubai.

Abu Dhabi

1. Have Fun at Yas Island 

Seek adventure for UAE national day activities and make use of an exclusive offer on theme parks and a staycation at WB Abu Dhabi, at the iconic Yas Island

To celebrate the national day, Yas Island is offering you a stay in WB Abu Dhabi and day access to one of its iconic themed parks. 

This includes Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi, and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi! In addition, you will get free tickets for Qasr Al Watan; how great is that?

Location

It’s located in Abu Dhabi. WB Abu Dhabi hotel is situated on Yas Bay, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. 

Prices

Stay and Play package: AED 402/person

Note: You can book the offer online through Yas Island’s official website.  

where to go on uae national day

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! 

UAE national day holiday 2021

Location

It’s located on W Corniche road, Al Ras Al Akhdar, Abu Dhabi. 

Prices

One room: AED 2,600/night (from December 1st to 4th

3. See Different Artworks at the Louvre Museum  

In celebration of the UAE’s 51th National Day, Louvre museum is hosting various artworks from all the seven emirates. The museum will screen audio-visual works showing the 51 years of the country. 

You will also enjoy watching photos and clips of the UAE history through the past period while a DJ playing nostalgic music with the emiati theme.  

Besides, you can take your little ones, as a roller-skating rink will be available for an event in collaboration with madrollers. Don’t miss the chance to celebrate in such a gem.

Location 

It’s located on Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi. 

Prices 

AED 150/person 

Opening Hours 

10 am – 6:30 pm daily, off on Mondays 

how to celebrate national day in UAE

4. Chill at Yas Bay Waterfront

If you’re still wondering how to celebrate the UAE national day, then Yas Bay Waterfront is an ideal choice. It’s one of the top places to enjoy this important occasion. You will find various dining options and cafes where you can meet with your friends. 

Besides, it’s supposed to host entertaining events and performances during the weekends and in celebration of the national day.

Location 

It’s located on Yas West, Yas Island, Dubai. 

5. Pamper Yourself at Rosewood Hotel

Since it’s a 4-day vacation, it’s a good opportunity to relax and have some quality time. The best way to do so is to have a massage at Sense Spa in Rosewood hotel. 

It’s offering you a discount on its Journey treatments and facials starting from December 1st to 4th. Afterwards, you can sit at their Majlis Lounge to enjoy a cup of tea with some savory and sweet treats customized with the UAE national day theme. 

At this gem, you will be able to spot the fireworks and drone shows on Al Maryah Island. It’s unmissable chance to treat yourself 

what to do on UAE national day

Location 

It’s located on Al Maryah Island, 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!

This Blog is made available for educational purposes only, in addition to providing you with general information and a general understanding of its content, including referenced laws and regulations, and not to provide specific legal advice. The Blog should not be used as a substitute for competent advice from a licensed professional.