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About UAE National Day

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About UAE National Day

UAE National Day, now called Eid Al Etihad, is celebrated on 2 December. It marks the day in 1971 when the emirates came together to form the United Arab Emirates.

Buildings, streets and cars are decorated in the red, green, white and black of the flag. Fireworks light up the coast, and there are parades, heritage villages, falconry shows, music and traditional dances such as the ayyala.

Emiratis and residents from around the world celebrate together, often with a long weekend of family outings, desert trips and shared meals.

  • 2 December
  • Union in 1971
  • Seven emirates

Where it began

Before 1971, the emirates were the Trucial States under British protection. When Britain announced it would leave the Gulf, the rulers met to plan a union.

On 2 December 1971, six emirates formed the United Arab Emirates, with Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan as its first President. Ras Al Khaimah joined in February 1972, making seven.

Flags lined up for National DayUnited Arab Emirates

How it grew over time

  1. 1968

    Britain announced it would end its treaties in the Gulf.

  2. 1971

    Six emirates united on 2 December.

  3. 1972

    Ras Al Khaimah joined the union.

  4. Today

    National Day is celebrated with a main show and events in every emirate.

How it is celebrated in different places

  • Abu Dhabi

    The capital hosts the official show and lights up with the national colours.

  • Dubai

    Fireworks light the skyline and families gather along the waterfront.

  • Every emirate

    Heritage villages show folk dances, falcons and old crafts.

UAE National Day moments

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque at nightAbu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
The domes of Sheikh Zayed Grand MosqueAbu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Dhows on the creek, a link to the old trading lifeDubai, United Arab Emirates

UAE National Day today

People decorate cars and homes with flags in red, green, white and black. Schools and offices hold events, and children wear traditional clothes.

The al-ayyala stick dance and other folk dances are performed, and families enjoy fireworks at night.

How people celebrate UAE National Day

  • Flags and lights on buildings
  • Fireworks
  • Heritage shows and traditional dances
  • Decorated cars
  • Wearing the flag colours
  • Family outings

How to wish well

  • Say "Happy National Day" or "Happy Eid Al Etihad". In Arabic, "عيد اتحاد سعيد".
  • Many residents are from other countries; a message of thanks to the country that is home to them is warm and common.
  • Keep messages about pride, union and gratitude; avoid politics.

Questions about UAE National Day

When is UAE National Day?

On 2 December every year, with a holiday that usually covers 2 and 3 December.

What is Eid Al Etihad?

The name for UAE National Day, meaning "Union Day", celebrating the union of the emirates in 1971.

What do the colours of the UAE flag mean?

They are the pan-Arab colours: red, green, white and black, each linked with values such as courage, hope, peace and strength.

How is UAE National Day celebrated?

With fireworks, parades, heritage events, decorated cars and buildings, and family outings.

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