Residents and visitors are gearing up for a long weekend from December 1st to 4th as the country comes together to celebrate its 51st UAE National Day on December 2nd. Venues, festivals, restaurants, concerts, and many more entertaining activities will take place that will see Arabic culture, traditions, and UAE’s history and values celebrated like never before.
Each year symbolic skyscrapers, hotels, and landmarks light up with the UAE’s colours to form unity to the world that’s visible even from outer space. Besides the usual places, we have gathered new and unique activities to enjoy this National Day weekend. From family-friendly activities and activations from every theme park, and mall to even the smallest restaurants we have rounded up the top offerings to keep an eye on for what to do this UAE National Day.
TOP THINGS TO DO THIS UAE NATIONAL DAY
Discover where to be, who to see, and what to experience on a day that marks the history of when the founding father Sheikh Zayed brought all 7 emirates together to transform the desert landscape into an oasis of innovation, prosperity, and forward-thinking.
UAE National Day Show at ADNEC
First and foremost, every year the UAE governing bodies organise a National Day Show to celebrate the inspiring stories and pioneers of how the UAE came to be and give a glimpse into the next few milestones the country aims to achieve. Having lit up the beautiful hills o Hatta with 3D projections last year, this year onlookers can expect a 10-day celebration at The Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre – ADNEC. The ceremony will showcase moving vignettes across generations and fields through breathtaking performances, unique technologies, and projections coupled with deep storytelling that take inspiration from its rich culture and present-day ambitions.
Post Malone Concert at Etihad Park
Take the chance to see one of the greatest rappers of all time, setting the nightlife vibe perfect for celebrating UAE National Day Weekend. Global superstar Post Malone is returning to Abu Dhabi and will be performing at Etihad Park on December 3rd.
Fireworks at Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival
Let the sparks of bursting fireworks overwhelm you with emotions by witnessing the celebrations of the UAE’s rich diversity at this year’s Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival. Be sure to attend the festival to enjoy fun activities, performances, and art to spend UAE National Day weekend. There will be tons of exhibitions, falconry shows, camel races, competitions, as well as fireworks for you to enjoy. Plus, there are over 4,000 international cultural events, more than 750 performances, and over 120 activities.
Watch The Emirates Youth Symphony Orchestra at the Mall of The Emirates
Let the rhythm of The Emirates Youth Symphony pull on your heartstrings as the mall will transform into center stage for celebrating Emirati culture here in Dubai. The Mall of The Emirates’ National Day festival will be hosted at Zeman Awwal, a newly opened space that highlights the UAE’s heritage and local culture. The Emirates Youth Symphony Orchestra has been playing the UAE national anthem once a week this month as part of National Day celebrations which sets the tone of the festive atmosphere for the National Day-themed artworks that will be on display throughout the month-long celebration, while an indoor market featuring home-grown products will run until December 4.
Starring Canal Strolls at Al Khawaneej Walk
Go for water-lit canal strolls at the lifestyle venue next to the Last Exit Food Truck Park at Al Khawaneej. A center for diverse shops and local boutiques to restaurants and hang-out spaces to enjoy with friends and family. Be sure to head to Al Khawaneej Walk to enjoy the destination being transformed this UAE National Day by the themed decor, a cultural parade in December, and an array of family-friendly activities including henna and stage shows.
Adventure Time at Legoland
Enjoy a day of adventurous activities as the Lego-themed Park in Dubai has prepared a UAE National Day program that includes a park-wide scavenger hunt. Already running since November 25th the celebrations are to run until Sunday, December 4th. Main events include building a miniature flag using Lego blocks, a park-wide scavenger hunt, and a parade of entertaining characters. The food offerings within the park, including burger sliders, popcorn, and waffles, meanwhile, will be prepared in the colours of the UAE flag.
Joy Rides at Global Village
The biggest multicultural hub in the world is going above and beyond to celebrate the 51st UAE National Day. All of the “little countries” within Global Village will host an array of fun activities to enjoy among them from a 33-strong orchestra, a special light display, a violinist, and a harpist playing a selection of popular Emirati songs. Running from December 1st till 4th the celebrations will include a fireworks display every night, prominently featuring the colours of the UAE flag, and don’t forget to try out all of the joy rides the Park has to offer.
Glorious Food at the Waterfront Market
The fresh food market kicked off its UAE National Day celebrations on Friday, with events planned until December 4. The venue will feature live entertainment throughout, including traditional Al Ayala dancers and roaming cultural parades. There’s a dedicated program for children that includes arts, crafts, and virtual reality games. The venue is also hosting an Emirati heritage village alongside the gleaming Deira Corniche waterway, featuring tents that will showcase various aspects of local culture.
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