The UAE Eid Al Etihad celebrations have been announced and it's going to be spectacular sep% Time Out Abu Dhabi
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.
Officially, there are two public holidays to mark UAE National Day every year, with December 2 and 3 set aside to celebrate the occasion. However, this year, the holiday could begin on December 1, which would give us a four-day weekend. And there is even a slight possibility of a five-day weekend according to UAE public holiday law.
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.
This year's location for the Eid Al Etihad celebration will be revealed at a later date, but we do know that it will be held on Tuesday December 2.
Last year, this main celebration was held at Jebel Hafeet in Al Ain and highlighted the UAE's values, rich heritage and future ambitions. We can expect a similar celebration to take place at another significant site in the UAE.
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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