National Day Holiday 2025: The UAE is gearing up for a grand celebration of National Day 2025, coinciding with Eid Al Etihad, giving residents and citizens a much-awaited long weekend. Marking the 54th anniversary of the unification of the seven emirates, this holiday is a moment to honor the nation’s visionary leadership, rich heritage, and remarkable progress since December 2, 1971. From dazzling fireworks to cultural parades, live concerts, sporting events, and family-friendly entertainment, the National Day 2025 celebrations promise unforgettable experiences across the country.
Historical Significance of National Day
National Day commemorates the historic unification of the seven emirates under the visionary leadership of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and other founding fathers. Since 1971, the UAE has grown into a thriving nation, known globally for its innovation, prosperity, and cultural richness. National Day is not only a time to reflect on the country’s past achievements, but also an opportunity to celebrate its present success and future aspirations.
Official Holiday Schedule 2025
For 2025, the UAE government has declared Monday, December 1, and Tuesday, December 2 as official holidays for private, public, and federal sectors, creating a four-day long weekend when combined with Saturday, November 29, and Sunday, November 30.
Holiday Schedule Table:
| Sector | Dates Off | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Public & Federal | Dec 1 – Dec 2, 2025 | Resume work Dec 3 |
| Private | Dec 1 – Dec 2, 2025 (Paid) | Aligns with public holidays |
The Cabinet resolution of 2025 allows certain public holidays to shift to the start or end of the week if they fall on weekdays, ensuring residents get maximum benefit from holidays.
Read more: Big Ticket December 2025
National Day 2025 Celebrations Across the UAE
Residents can look forward to exciting events and cultural festivities across all emirates:
- Fireworks Displays – Burj Khalifa, Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), Bluewaters Island, and Global Village will light up the skies with spectacular displays.
- Cultural Showcases & Heritage Parades – Celebrate Emirati traditions, crafts, and music across major cities.
- Live Concerts – Enjoy performances from local and regional stars, including Emirati superstar Balqees.
- Sports Events – Thrilling action at events like the Emirates Dubai Rugby 7s.
- Family-Friendly Activities – LEGOLAND Dubai, IMG Worlds of Adventure, and major malls will host themed events for children and families.
Read more: Jana nayagan audio launch ticket 2025
Top Venues & Event Locations
Here’s a guide to the best places to celebrate National Day 2025:
| Location | Event Type | Date & Time | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Burj Khalifa | Fireworks | Dec 2, 2025 | Flag-themed lights & fireworks |
| Global Village | Cultural Show | Nov 27 – Dec 3 | Drone shows, theatrical performances |
| Dubai Frame | Heritage Exhibitions | Dec 2 – Dec 3 | Cultural projections & activities |
| Hatta Heritage Village | Kids’ Winter Camp | Nov 15 – Dec 3 | Interactive events for children |
| Palm Jumeirah Mall | Entertainment & Pop-ups | Dec 2 | Live shows & family activities |
| Ibn Battutta Mall | National Day Celebrations | Dec 1 – Dec 3 | Cultural performances & promotions |
| Expo City | Performances & Light Festival | Nov 28 – Dec 2 | Al Wasl Dome shows & Dhai Dubai festival |
Travel & Staycation Tips
With a four-day long weekend, residents can plan staycations or regional trips:
- UAE Staycations – Book luxury beach resorts or urban hotels with skyline views. Many hotels offer special National Day packages.
- Short-Haul Regional Travel – Popular destinations include Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Cairo, Sri Lanka, and Bali. Travel agencies offer inclusive packages (flight + hotel + tours).
- Booking Advice – Book early, as demand surges during the National Day weekend.
Dining & Entertainment Deals
- Restaurants and hotels feature National Day-themed menus with Emirati cuisine.
- Malls and entertainment centers offer promotional events, pop-ups, and family deals.
- Visitors can enjoy food festivals, themed cafes, and cultural workshops across major emirates.
Planning Checklist for Residents
To make the most of National Day 2025:
- Confirm Dates: Dec 1 – Dec 2 (official holidays).
- Book in Advance: Secure hotels, restaurant reservations, and event tickets.
- Dress Modestly: Respect local culture during public events.
- Use Public Transport: Avoid traffic at major venues.
- Capture Memories: Bring cameras or smartphones for fireworks and cultural shows.
Significance of Eid Al Etihad 2025
Eid Al Etihad, celebrated alongside National Day, emphasizes unity and national pride. Families come together to honor the founding fathers, reflect on the UAE’s rapid development, and participate in nationwide celebrations that showcase the country’s cultural richness and modern achievements.
Top attractions and events for National Day Holiday 2025
| Attraction / Venue | Event Type | Date & Time | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Burj Khalifa | Fireworks & Light Show | Dec 2, 2025 | Flag-themed illumination with coordinated fireworks; iconic skyline view |
| Global Village | Cultural Performances & Drone Show | Nov 27 – Dec 3, 2025 | Theatrical shows, drone displays, traditional Emirati crafts |
| Dubai Frame | Heritage Exhibitions | Dec 2 – Dec 3, 2025 | Historical projections, interactive cultural displays |
| Hatta Heritage Village | Kids’ Winter Camp | Nov 15 – Dec 3, 2025 | Educational programs, heritage workshops for children aged 7–12 |
| Palm Jumeirah Mall | Live Shows & Entertainment | Dec 2, 2025 | Pop-ups, performances, family-friendly activities |
| Ibn Battutta Mall | National Day Celebrations | Dec 1 – Dec 3, 2025 | Cultural performances, shopping promotions, interactive events |
| Expo City | Al Wasl Dome Shows & Light Festival | Nov 28 – Dec 2, 2025 | Light art festival, immersive performances, Festival of Cake |
| Al Fahidi Historical Village | Cultural & Heritage Programs | Nov 15 – Dec 3, 2025 | Traditional Emirati music, art exhibitions, heritage walks |
| UAE Flag Garden (Umm Suqeim Beach) | Flag Displays & Photo Ops | Oct 31 – Jan 10, 2025 | Thousands of UAE flags, patriotic photo opportunities |
| Dubai Parks & Resorts | Family Entertainment & Promotions | Dec 1 – Dec 4, 2025 | Theme park discounts, National Day shows, special dining |
| Etihad Museum | Projection Mapping & Exhibitions | Dec 2, 2025 | Visual storytelling of pre-unification UAE, cultural insights |
| Jumeirah Beach Residences (JBR) | Fireworks & Family Activities | Dec 2, 2025 | Popular fireworks spot, food kiosks, entertainment booths |
| Bluewaters Island & Ain Dubai | Fireworks & Light Show | Dec 2, 2025 | Evening light shows, panoramic city views |
| Al Shindagha Museum | Heritage Events | Nov 29 – Dec 3, 2025 | Interactive exhibits, traditional performances |
| Children’s City | Family Activities | Dec 2 – Dec 3, 2025 | Workshops, arts & crafts, storytelling sessions |
| Mushrif Park (Abu Dhabi) | Public Events & Activities | Dec 2 – Dec 3, 2025 | Outdoor games, family-friendly shows, cultural activities |
| Dubai Frame | National Day Exhibitions | Dec 2 – Dec 3, 2025 | Cultural showcases, photography opportunities |
| Al Khawaneej Walk & Last Exit | Pop-Up Celebrations | Dec 2 – Dec 3, 2025 | Food stalls, live music, art installations |
| The Outlet Village Mall | Entertainment & Cultural Displays | Dec 2, 2025 | Shopping deals, National Day-themed events |
| Dragon Mart (International City) | Cultural Events | Dec 2, 2025 | Performances, pop-ups, family activities |
Importance of National Day Holiday 2025
- Celebrates UAE Unity & History
- Events like Etihad Museum exhibitions and heritage villages highlight the historic unification of the seven emirates in 1971.
- Reinforces pride in the nation’s founding vision and achievements.
- Showcases Culture & Traditions
- Cultural performances at Global Village, Al Fahidi Historical Village, and Hatta Heritage Village help residents and tourists experience Emirati music, arts, and crafts.
- Promotes Community Engagement
- Fireworks at Burj Khalifa, family-friendly activities at Children’s City, and public events at Mushrif Park bring communities together, strengthening social bonds and shared identity.
- Supports Tourism & Economy
- Malls and attractions like Expo City, Palm Jumeirah Mall, and Dragon Mart attract visitors, boosting local businesses, hospitality, and retail sectors during the long weekend.
- Encourages Recreation & Family Time
- Entertainment options like Dubai Parks & Resorts, JBR beach activities, and interactive workshops provide opportunities for fun, leisure, and family bonding.
- Showcases Innovation & Modern UAE
- Drone shows, light festivals, and projection mapping at Dubai Frame and Global Village reflect the UAE’s blend of tradition with modern technology.
- Fosters National Pride & Patriotism
- Nationwide participation in flag displays, parades, and fireworks instills a sense of belonging and national pride among residents and citizens.
Travel & Trip Ideas or National Day Holiday 2025
| Destination | Type of Trip | Duration | Highlights / Activities | Estimated Price (AED) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai Staycation | Luxury Hotel / Beach Resort | 2–4 days | Skyline views, National Day hotel packages, fireworks & leisure facilities | 1,200 – 3,500 per person |
| Abu Dhabi Staycation | Urban / Resort | 2–4 days | Cultural events, Yas Island attractions, Marina Mall, fireworks | 1,000 – 3,000 per person |
| Hatta | Nature & Heritage | 1–2 days | Hatta Heritage Village, kayaking, hiking, mountain views | 400 – 900 per person |
| Al Ain | Cultural & Nature | 1–2 days | Al Ain Zoo, Jebel Hafeet, heritage villages | 400 – 1,000 per person |
| Georgia (Tbilisi) | Short-Haul International | 3–5 days | Historic Old Town, wine tours, scenic valleys | 1,950+ AED per person |
| Armenia (Yerevan) | Short-Haul International | 3–5 days | Opera House, museums, historical landmarks | 1,800+ AED per person |
| Azerbaijan (Baku) | Short-Haul International | 3–5 days | Modern architecture, Caspian Sea, cultural tours | 1,750+ AED per person |
| Kazakhstan (Almaty) | Adventure & Culture | 3–5 days | Mountain trekking, city tours, winter sports | 1,500+ AED per person |
| Sri Lanka | Beach & Cultural Tour | 3–5 days | Beaches, tea plantations, historical sites | 1,500+ AED per person |
| Bali, Indonesia | Beach & Leisure | 3–5 days | Beaches, temples, water sports | 1,600+ AED per person |
| Cairo, Egypt | Historical Tour | 3–5 days | Pyramids, Nile cruise, museums | 1,700+ AED per person |
| Kyrgyzstan (Bishkek) | Adventure & Culture | 3–5 days | Scenic mountains, local markets, cultural experiences | 1,250+ AED per person |
| Russia (Moscow) | Cultural & Sightseeing | 4–6 days | Red Square, Kremlin, museums, historic landmarks | 1,675+ AED per person |
| Uzbekistan (Tashkent) | Heritage & Culture | 3–5 days | Historic sites, traditional bazaars, architectural tours | 1,999+ AED per person |
| Kenya (Nairobi) | Safari & Adventure | 4–6 days | Safari parks, wildlife experiences, nightlife | 3,359+ AED per person |
FAQs
1. When is the UAE National Day / Eid Al Etihad in 2025?
The UAE National Day is celebrated on December 2, 2025, marking the 54th anniversary of the unification of the seven emirates. For 2025, the holiday is extended to December 1 and 2, giving a four-day long weekend including Saturday (Nov 29) and Sunday (Nov 30).
2. Which sectors get holidays during National Day 2025?
- Federal & Public Sector: Paid holidays on Dec 1 and Dec 2. Work resumes on Wednesday, Dec 3.
- Private Sector: Paid holidays aligned with public holidays (Dec 1 and Dec 2).
3. What are the main attractions and events during National Day 2025?
Celebrations include:
- Fireworks & light shows at Burj Khalifa, Bluewaters, and JBR
- Cultural performances at Al Fahidi Historical Village, Hatta Heritage Village, and Global Village
- Family activities at Dubai Parks & Resorts, Children’s City, and malls
- Heritage exhibitions at Etihad Museum and Dubai Frame
4. Are there any special travel packages for National Day?
Yes, many local and international travel agencies, including Akbar Travels and Air Arabia Holidays, offer short-haul and staycation packages with flights, hotels, and meals starting from AED 1,249 per person.
5. How can I plan to avoid crowds during National Day events?
- Arrive at least 60–90 minutes early for fireworks and parades.
- Use public transport like the Dubai Metro or ride-share apps.
- Check event schedules and pre-book tickets where applicable.
6. What should I do to enjoy National Day with family?
- Attend family-friendly events at Dubai Parks, Children’s City, or Mushrif Park.
- Visit heritage villages and cultural exhibitions for educational experiences.
- Book staycations or nearby trips for a relaxing long weekend.
7. Are all National Day events free?
Not all. Many outdoor celebrations and public fireworks are free to attend, but some shows, exhibitions, and workshops may have entry fees. Always check the event’s official website or social media page.
8. What is the significance of Eid Al Etihad?
Eid Al Etihad commemorates the historic unification of the seven emirates in 1971. It is a time to reflect on UAE’s progress, honor the founders, and celebrate national unity, culture, and achievements.
9. Can I travel internationally during the National Day holiday?
Yes, many residents take advantage of the four-day weekend to travel short-haul destinations like Georgia, Armenia, Sri Lanka, Bali, and Azerbaijan. Early bookings are highly recommended due to high demand.
10. Are there any safety tips during National Day celebrations?
- Follow event guidelines and safety instructions.
- Supervise children at crowded locations.
- Carry water, wear comfortable clothing, and respect local culture.
About The Author
