The UAE is celebrating its 53rd National Day on December 2, also known as Eid Al Etihad, giving residents the opportunity to reflect on the country’s resilience, determination and journey to success. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has announced official paid holidays for all private sector employees in the UAE for December 2 and 3 (Monday and Tuesday). Since the dates coincide with Saturday and Sunday, it gives UAE residents a chance to celebrate the long weekend.
Why is UAE National Day celebrated?
According to local outlets, Eid Al Etihad commemorates the historic moment when the seven emirates came together in 1971 to form a unified nation under the leadership of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
‘Spirit of the Union’ is the official theme of the UAE’s National Day celebrations. Many events are organized for the residents to celebrate the occasion.
Guidelines for UAE residents on National Day
Khaleej Times Said UAE government has banned random marches or gatherings. It also gives a detailed list of guidelines to be followed:
- Follow all traffic rules and follow instructions issued by police officers
- Drivers, passengers or pedestrians should avoid using party spray
- Make sure the front and rear license plates of the vehicle remain visible; Do not change the color of the vehicle or darken/darken the front windows
- Do not place any type of stickers, signs or logos on the vehicle unless they are specifically for Eid Al Etihad and comply with the official guidelines and conditions.
- Do not exceed the permitted number of passengers in a vehicle, and do not allow anyone to look out through your car’s windows or sunroof
- Avoid making unauthorized modifications to the vehicle or adding unlicensed features that create noise or obstruct vision
- Do not obstruct traffic, block roads for emergency vehicles (ambulance, civil defense, police patrol), or perform stunts on internal or external roads.
- Do not cover the side, front or rear windows of the vehicle with stickers and avoid using sunshades that block visibility
Things to do during UAE National Day Celebrations
The celebrations in Dubai will be held over six days – from November 28 to December 3 – with shopping deals, acrobatic displays, musical performances, fireworks and a host of culinary experiences.
Sharjah City has made entry free to all public museums on 1 and 2 December.
The official ceremony will be held in Al Ain and will be attended by the country’s rulers and leaders.
