UAE National Day, officially known as Eid Al Etihad (Festival of the Union), is celebrated annually on December 2nd. It commemorates the historic day in 1971 when the seven emirates united to form the United Arab Emirates, marking the birth of the nation under the leadership of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

The Celebration:

Meaning: “Etihad” translates to union, symbolizing the shared strength, legacy, and identity of the seven emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah.
Events: Cities across the country—including local hubs in Abu Dhabi—celebrate with grand public parades, spectacular fireworks displays, live concerts, and traditional cultural performances.