This year's Abu Dhabi's Eid Al Etihad celebrations have been announced

Time Out Abu Dhabi

4 days ago

Abu Dhabi is about to get lit – literally. The 54th edition of the UAE's National Day (now proudly called Eid Al Etihad, meaning 'Festival of the Union') is just around the corner, and if previous years are anything to go by, we're in for a dazzling display of heritage, technology and a whole lot of wow-factor.
Every December 2, the UAE marks its historic unification – when the seven emirates came together to form a bold new nation back in 1971.
But this isn't just a public holiday; it's a full-on cultural extravaganza that celebrates Emirati pride, futuristic ambition and the people who call this country home.
What's happening this year?
While the full line-up is still under wraps, you can expect the usual suspects: massive fireworks, jaw-dropping drone shows and immersive storytelling that brings the UAE's past, present and future to life.
If previous celebrations are any clue, the capital is likely to be the centre stage again.
In 2022, synchronised drones danced above water. In 2023, AI-generated visuals transported audiences across time. In 2024, camels, constellations and desert mountains set the scene in Al Ain. In 2025? Think bigger. Think brighter. Think next-level tech mixed with timeless tradition – and maybe even a surprise A-list concert thrown into the mix.
Here's what's likely on the cards:
Fireworks everywhere – From Yas Island to the Corniche, the skies over Abu Dhabi are expected to light up in green, red, white and black.
Drone storytelling shows – They've become a staple of the celebration, and you can bet they'll be even more advanced this year.
Free public festivities – Think cultural performances, traditional parades, dance shows and more. (Pro tip: head to Al Maryah Island or downtown Abu Dhabi for the action.)
Concerts and surprise pop-ups – Previous years saw a mix of local and international talent. Could 2025 bring another chart-topper to the capital? We're watching closely.
Shopping and dining deals – Expect major discounts across malls, hotels and restaurants, especially in tourist hotspots like Yas Bay, Saadiyat and The Galleria.
Traffic fine discounts? – In 2024, drivers in four emirates got 50 percent off. Will it return in 2025? Fingers crossed.
Free public parking – Keep an eye on Parkonic announcements in Abu Dhabi closer to the date.
Planning your break
The holiday falls on Tuesday, December 2 and Wednesday, December 3 – so if you play your annual leave cards right (hello, December 1, 4 and 5), you could score a nine-day break. Perfect for a staycation, desert escape, or road trip with friends and family.
Eid Al Etihad isn't just a few days of fireworks – it's a month-long moment of reflection and celebration. Expect the skyline to be bathed in national colours, Emirati music to fill every corner of the city and people from all walks of life to come together in joy.
One thing's for sure: the UAE knows how to throw a celebration – and at 54 years strong, the energy is only growing. Keep your cameras ready and your National Day flags high – this is going to be one for the books.
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