Are you wondering what UAE National Day 54 fireworks Abu Dhabi has this year? Well, there are various venues to visit in order to watch magnificent fireworks fill up the UAE’s capital’s night sky. This guide will walk you through the best of them, so get ahead and start planning the celebrations of December the Second!
- Al Maryah Island
- The Corniche
- Yas Island, Yas Bay
- Marsana, Al Hudayriyat Island
- Yas Marina Circuit
- Yas Marina
- Emirates Palace
- Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium
- Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival
- Al Dhafra
- Madinat Zayed Public Park
- Ghayathi – TAMM Service Centre
- Al Mughira Beach
- Key Takeaways
Overview
Every year, the United Arab Emirates chooses a theme for its National Day’s celebrations. For example, last year’s theme was “Brighter Together”, while this year’s theme is “Spirit of the Union”. This theme celebrates diversity and unity – where all the seven emirates are united in celebration of this happy day. In fact, in the UAE National Day celebrations, Abu Dhabi fireworks are included, as well as parades, cultural performances, and more.
To help you plan ahead, here’s a quick overview of all the confirmed fireworks locations and timings across Abu Dhabi this year.
| Fireworks Location | Date | Time | Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| Al Maryah Island (The Galleria Promenade) | December 2nd | 9:00 pm | Abu Dhabi City |
| Abu Dhabi Corniche | December 2nd | 9:00 pm | Abu Dhabi City |
| Yas Bay Waterfront (Yas Island) | December 2nd – 3rd | 9:00 pm | Yas Island |
| Marsana, Al Hudayriyat Island | December 2nd | 9:00 pm | Abu Dhabi City |
| Yas Marina Circuit | December 2nd | 9:00 pm | Yas Island |
| Yas Marina | December 2nd | 9:00 pm | Yas Island |
| Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental | December 2nd | 9:15 pm | Abu Dhabi City |
| Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium | December 2nd | 9:00 pm | Al Ain |
| Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival (Al Wathba) | December 1st – 3rd | Evening programme (TBA) | Al Wathba |
| Ghayathi – TAMM Service Centre | December 2nd | 9:00 pm | Al Dhafra |
| Al Mughira Beach | December 2nd | 9:00 pm | Al Dhafra |
| Madinat Zayed Public Park | 27th-29th November | 9:00 pm | Al Dhafra |
All the UAE National Day Fireworks Abu Dhabi Shows
UAE National Day fireworks places in Abu Dhabi are many, as they are spread across the capital. Not only do they hold National Day celebrations, but they are home to some of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi. Thus, explore these places and everything they have to offer to celebrate the 2nd of December.
1. Al Maryah Island
First of all, it has become an annual tradition for Al Maryah Island to put on a fabulous firework show. And every year, this show puts its audience in awe! In addition, the show is held at the Galleria Al Maryah Island’s Promenade, where many people can join in the festivities. Also, there are many cafes, restaurants, and much more to enjoy alongside the firework shows.
- Date & time: December 2, 9:00 pm
- Location: Galleria Al Maryah Island’s Promenade
2. The Corniche
Abu Dhabi Corniche remains one of the most iconic places to watch UAE National Day fireworks. The long beachfront promenade offers sweeping views over the Arabian Gulf, making it the perfect setting to see the colours of the UAE flag light up the night sky.
On National Day, families and groups of friends usually arrive early to enjoy the cool sea breeze, grab snacks from nearby cafés and kiosks, and then settle in for the fireworks at 9:00 pm. With the reflections over the water, it’s easily one of the most memorable spots in the capital to celebrate.
- Date & Time: 2 December, from 9:00 pm
Location: Abu Dhabi Corniche / Corniche Beach
3. Yas Island, Yas Bay
Yas Island is one of Abu Dhabi’s most prominent and magnificent islands. It is home to many entertaining venues and exciting events for individuals, couples, and families. And surely, one of the most important events at Yas Islands is the National Day Firework Show! Yas Bay Waterfront hosts two nights of festivities, with cultural performances, family-friendly activities and live entertainment starting from the afternoon.
The highlight of each evening is the fireworks show at 9:00 pm, when the sky above Yas Bay lights up in the colours of the UAE flag. With restaurants, cafés and waterside walkways all around, it’s a fantastic option if you want to make a full evening of your National Day plans.
- Date & Time: December 2 – 3, 9:00 pm
- Location: Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island
4. Marsana, Al Hudayriyat Island
If you want to celebrate National Day with a relaxing beachside atmosphere, then Marsana on Al Hudayriyat Island is your ideal pick. The waterfront promenade fills with families and visitors who gather to enjoy the evening breeze, live shows, and festive installations before the fireworks begin.
At 9:00 pm sharp, the sky above Hudayriyat lights up with a vibrant display that reflects beautifully over the water. With cafés, cycling tracks, and plenty of open space, it’s one of the most enjoyable places to spend the evening with friends and family.
- Date & Time: December 2, 9:00 pm
- Location: Marsana, Al Hudayriyat Island
5. Yas Marina Circuit
Yas Marina Circuit is more than just a motorsport destination; it is also one of the most popular spots to enjoy UAE National Day fireworks in Abu Dhabi. The atmosphere on December 2nd is always lively, with crowds gathering early to secure the perfect viewing angle.
As the clock strikes 9:00 pm, the sky above the circuit becomes a canvas of colour, creating an unforgettable moment for families, couples, and motorsport enthusiasts alike.
- Date & Time: December 2, 9:00 pm
- Location: Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island
6. Yas Marina
Yas Marina offers a picturesque backdrop for the UAE National Day celebrations. With its sparkling waterfront views and vibrant dining scene, it is one of the most atmospheric places to enjoy the fireworks.
Visitors can stroll along the marina, grab a meal at one of the many restaurants, and then take in the spectacular display as it lights up the Yas Island skyline.
- Date & Time: December 2, 9:00 pm
- Location: Yas Marina, Yas Island
7. Emirates Palace
For a more luxurious setting, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental is one of the most impressive places to watch the fireworks. The palace’s gardens, beachfront and marina areas offer stunning vantage points as the display lights up the night sky.
In 2025, the fireworks are scheduled a little later than other locations, starting at 9:15 pm on 2 December as part of a wider programme of National Day celebrations taking place across the property. It’s the perfect choice if you want to pair the show with a special dinner or staycation.
- Date & Time: 2 December, 9:15 pm
- Location: Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, West Corniche
8. Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium
Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium is the main spot for UAE National Day fireworks in Al Ain. On 2 December, residents from across the city and nearby areas gather around the stadium to enjoy an evening of celebrations and a spectacular fireworks show.
With plenty of open space and dedicated parking, it’s a convenient and family-friendly choice if you are celebrating in Al Ain rather than central Abu Dhabi.
- Date & Time: 2 December, 9:00 pm
- Location: Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium, Al Ain
9. Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival
Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival in Al Wathba is one of the most authentic places to celebrate UAE National Day. The festival showcases Emirati heritage through pavilions, traditional markets, performances and family-friendly attractions, making it a full-day outing rather than just a quick stop for fireworks.
During the Eid Al Etihad period, the festival hosts special Union Day celebrations with large-scale fireworks, laser and drone shows on National Day, alongside cultural performances that reflect the spirit of the UAE. If you are looking for a more traditional way to mark the occasion, this is an excellent choice.
- Dates: 1–3 December (Eid Al Etihad / Union Day celebrations)
- Fireworks: Scheduled on UAE National Day as part of the evening programme – check official festival timings closer to the date
- Location: Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival, Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi
10. Al Dhafra
The Al Dhafra region in western Abu Dhabi also joins the UAE National Day celebrations with several community fireworks displays. Instead of a single show, different towns across the region light up the sky at 9:00 pm, giving residents the chance to celebrate closer to home.
Key locations in 2025 include Ghayathi (behind the TAMM Service Centre), Al Mughira Beach and Madinat Zayed Public Park – each offering a family-friendly setting and free entry for everyone to enjoy the festive atmosphere.
11. Madinat Zayed Public Park
Madinat Zayed Public Park transforms into a lively community gathering spot on National Day. Families bring picnic blankets, snacks, and spend the evening enjoying the festive ambience before the fireworks begin.
The spacious park offers a perfect open area for watching the display, making it one of the most loved National Day destinations in the Al Dhafra region.
- Date & Time: December 2, 9:00 pm
- Location: Madinat Zayed Public Park, Al Dhafra
12. Ghayathi – TAMM Service Centre
Located behind the TAMM Service Centre, Ghayathi hosts one of the most anticipated fireworks displays in the western region of Abu Dhabi. Families gather early to secure a good viewing spot, and the cheerful community atmosphere makes it a wonderful place to celebrate the occasion.
- Date & Time: December 2, 9:00 pm
- Location: TAMM Service Centre, Ghayathi
13. Al Mughira Beach
For a truly scenic National Day experience, head to Al Mughira Beach. The fireworks here reflect beautifully over the water, offering one of the most stunning views in Al Dhafra. It’s a wonderful spot for families who enjoy celebrating by the sea.
- Date & Time: December 2, 9:00 pm
- Location: Al Mughira Beach, Al Dhafra
Key Takeaways
Abu Dhabi is set to light up the sky this UAE National Day with multiple free firework displays across the city, from the Corniche and Al Maryah Island to Yas Island and Hudayriyat. Most shows take place on 2 December at 9:00 pm, with Yas Bay extending celebrations across two evenings. Residents in Al Ain and Al Dhafra can also enjoy local displays at Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium, Ghayathi, Al Mughira Beach and Madinat Zayed Public Park.
For those looking for a cultural celebration, the Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival offers evening shows and family-friendly activities throughout the weekend. Wherever you choose to celebrate, each location offers a memorable way to enjoy the spirit of the UAE’s 54th National Day.
FAQs
Most fireworks across Abu Dhabi start at 9:00 pm on 2 December. A few locations may differ, such as Emirates Palace which starts at 9:15 pm. Always check the official announcements for final timings.
Yes, all National Day fireworks in Abu Dhabi are free and open to the public. Locations such as the Corniche, Al Maryah Island, Yas Bay, and Hudayriyat do not require tickets.
Yes, Yas Bay Waterfront hosts fireworks on 2 and 3 December, offering two nights of celebrations unlike most other locations which only have fireworks on 2 December.
Most large venues provide parking, including Yas Marina Circuit, Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium, Al Maryah Island, and Hudayriyat. However, these areas get crowded, so arriving early or using taxis/public transport is recommended.
Yes. Al Ain hosts its display at Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium, while Al Dhafra celebrates with shows at Ghayathi, Al Mughira Beach, and Madinat Zayed Public Park.
It’s best to bring water, small snacks, a portable charger, a light jacket, and a picnic mat. Comfortable shoes are recommended due to walking distances and crowds.
Many hotels and restaurants, especially around Emirates Palace, Corniche Road, and Yas Island, offer National Day dining packages with direct fireworks views. Booking early is highly recommended.
In summary, get ready for the many UAE National Day Fireworks Abu Dhabi is hosting. In addition, make sure to explore Property Finder’s blog for more guides and great hidden gems, such as UAE National Day Fireworks in Dubai Guide along with the National Symbols of UAE, and more.
