UAE National Day 2026 falls on Wednesday, 2 December, with 2 and 3 December listed as official public holidays for both the public and private sectors. The occasion marks the formation of the United Arab Emirates in 1971 and is now officially celebrated as Eid Al Etihad. In 2026, the UAE will mark 55 years since the federation was established.
For residents and visitors, the National Day period is more than two days off work. Cities across the UAE are decorated with flags and lights, while cultural programmes, family activities, retail promotions, concerts and fireworks take place around the country. Dubai has already included Eid Al Etihad from 30 November to 3 December 2026 in its official events calendar, with fireworks, cultural showcases, retail promotions and family activities planned during the period.
UAE National Day 2026 Date
UAE National Day is observed every year on 2 December. In 2026, the date falls on a Wednesday.
The official holiday includes two dates:
| Detail | Date |
| UAE National Day | Wednesday, 2 December 2026 |
| Second holiday | Thursday, 3 December 2026 |
| Occasion | UAE National Day / Eid Al Etihad |
| Anniversary | 55th anniversary |
| UAE federation formed | 2 December 1971 |
| Public holiday | 2–3 December 2026 |
The UAE Government’s current public holiday list confirms that 2 and 3 December are National Day holidays applicable to both public and private sectors. The same official source states that National Day marks the country’s federal unification in 1971.
Is UAE National Day a Public Holiday?
Yes. 2 and 3 December 2026 are official public holidays in the UAE.
The two dates apply to both government and private-sector employees under the UAE’s national public-holiday schedule. Cabinet Resolution No. 27 of 2024 also provides that a public holiday is not transferred to another day when it falls on a weekend or coincides with another public holiday.
The number of consecutive days away from work can still depend on an employee’s normal weekly days off and workplace arrangements.
What Is UAE National Day?
UAE National Day commemorates the formation of the United Arab Emirates on 2 December 1971.
Six emirates—Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah—formed the federation on that date. Ras Al Khaimah joined the federation on 10 February 1972, completing the union of the seven emirates.
The day is therefore closely connected with the country’s history and the idea of unity between the seven emirates. National Day celebrations bring that history into public life through cultural events, national decorations, music, family activities, and official ceremonies.
Why Is UAE National Day Celebrated on 2 December?
The date comes directly from the founding of the UAE.
On 18 July 1971, the rulers of six emirates agreed to establish the federation. The United Arab Emirates then formally emerged as an independent sovereign state on 2 December 1971. The rulers elected Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, then Ruler of Abu Dhabi, as the UAE’s first President.
Ras Al Khaimah joined the federation on 10 February 1972. That is why the UAE today consists of seven emirates, even though the federation itself was established on 2 December 1971.
UAE National Day History
The story of the union began several years before 1971.
After Sheikh Zayed became Ruler of Abu Dhabi in 1966, he worked toward closer relations with the other emirates. On 18 February 1968, Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the then Ruler of Dubai, reached an agreement to work toward a federation. The discussions later expanded to include the other Trucial States.
The British announcement of its intention to withdraw from the Gulf by the end of 1971 added urgency to the discussions. After several years of negotiations, six emirates agreed to establish the UAE.
On 2 December 1971, the federation became a reality.
The UAE Government identifies Sheikh Zayed as the Founding President and records that he remained President from the country’s formation until he died in 2004.
What Is Eid Al Etihad?
Eid Al Etihad is the official name of the UAE’s national celebration on 2 December.
“Etihad” means union, reflecting the event being celebrated: the union of the emirates under one federation in 1971. The official Eid Al Etihad platform describes the occasion as a national celebration that brings communities and generations together around the UAE’s history, identity and future.
The name does not refer to a different holiday. Eid Al Etihad and UAE National Day refer to the same national occasion.
What Anniversary Is UAE Celebrating in 2026?
2026 marks the UAE’s 55th anniversary.
The federation was established on 2 December 1971, so 2 December 2026 marks 55 years since its formation.
The anniversary is expected to be reflected in official ceremonies, public decorations and National Day programming. The exact themes and programme details can vary each year.
UAE National Day 2026 Celebrations
National Day celebrations take place across all seven emirates. There is no single venue where the entire country celebrates.
Events can include:
- Fireworks
- Cultural performances
- Concerts
- Family entertainment
- Heritage activities
- National ceremonies
- Shopping promotions
- Restaurant and hotel offers
- Community activities
- UAE-themed decorations
The official Eid Al Etihad platform also provides celebration resources for homes, schools and offices. Its guides include activity ideas, Emirati songs and downloadable resources designed for people taking part in the celebrations themselves.
UAE National Day 2026 in Dubai
Dubai has one of the most extensive National Day programmes in the UAE.
According to Dubai’s official 2026 retail calendar, Eid Al Etihad will run from 30 November to 3 December 2026 as a citywide celebration period. The calendar specifically mentions fireworks, cultural showcases, retail promotions, and family activations.
This gives visitors several options during the holiday, from shopping and entertainment to public celebrations and cultural activities.
However, the citywide calendar does not mean that every individual fireworks location has already been announced. Specific venues can release their own schedules closer to the event.
UAE National Day 2026 in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi also hosts National Day celebrations throughout the emirate.
Experience Abu Dhabi highlights cultural attractions, Emirati food, family activities, beaches,e,s and Al Ain experiences as options for the Eid Al Etihad period. Its National Day information also notes that celebrations can include cultural performances and fireworks.
For 2026, visitors should check the Abu Dhabi events calendar as December approaches for confirmed fireworks locations, performance times and entry information.
Abu Dhabi and Al Ain can be particularly good choices for people who want to combine National Day activities with museums, heritage sites, beaches or a short staycation.
UAE National Day 2026 in Sharjah
Sharjah also takes part in the nationwide National Day celebrations, with an emphasis on cultural and family activities.
The emirate is well suited to visitors who want to include museums, heritage areas, cultural venues and family attractions in their holiday plans. Exact National Day programmes should be checked through official Sharjah event announcements because schedules can change from year to year.
National Day Celebrations in the Other Emirates
National Day is celebrated throughout Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah as well as Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah.
The format is different in each emirate. Some events focus more heavily on heritage and community activities, while others combine entertainment, shopping and fireworks.
There is no single UAE-wide schedule covering every event, so residents should check the official announcement for the emirate or venue they plan to visit.
UAE National Day Fireworks 2026
Fireworks are among the most popular National Day activities, but it is important not to treat old fireworks lists as confirmed information for 2026.
Dubai’s official 2026 calendar has confirmed fireworks as part of its Eid Al Etihad celebration period.
Experience Abu Dhabi also says fireworks are part of Eid Al Etihad celebrations in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Dhafra, with further details to be announced.
For anyone planning to watch a display, the safest option is to check the official venue or emirate announcement shortly before the event. Location, start time, parking arrangements, and road closures can change.
Things to Do on UAE National Day 2026
You do not have to attend a large public event to enjoy the holiday. There are plenty of ways to spend the National Day break.
Watch Fireworks
Once official locations are announced, choose a display that is convenient for you and check the transport arrangements before leaving. Popular viewing areas can become crowded, particularly around major city events.
Visit a Cultural Attraction
National Day is a good opportunity to explore Emirati heritage. Museums, historic buildings, cultural centres and heritage villages often fit naturally into a National Day itinerary.
Abu Dhabi’s official tourism site, for example, highlights places such as Qasr Al Hosn, House of Artisans and other cultural attractions during the Eid Al Etihad period.
Plan a Family Day Out
Families can spend the day at a park, beach, attraction, mall, or family entertainment venue. Many commercial venues introduce National Day activities during the holiday period.
Try Emirati Food
National Day is also a good time to try traditional Emirati dishes. Experience Abu Dhabi highlights dishes such as Harees and Machboos as part of its Eid Al Etihad recommendations.
Take a Short Trip
The December weather makes outdoor activities more comfortable than during the hotter months. A short trip to Al Ain, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah or another emirate can turn the two-day public holiday into a longer break when it fits your normal days off.
UAE Flag and National Day Traditions
The UAE flag becomes highly visible around National Day.
Residents commonly decorate homes, cars, offices and other spaces with the country’s red, green, white and black colours. Shopping centres, hotels and public areas also use national decorations during the celebration period.
The official Eid Al Etihad programme encourages participation at home, school and work rather than limiting the celebration to large public events. Its official Home Guide includes activities, songs and resources for families.
The UAE national anthem is another important part of national celebrations. The official UAE Government identifies “Ishy Bilady” as the national anthem.
UAE National Day for Families
Families can choose between large public celebrations and quieter activities.
A family might spend the day at a cultural attraction, visit a beach, have an Emirati meal, watch fireworks or organise a small celebration at home. The official Eid Al Etihad Home Guide provides ideas for families who want to celebrate without attending a large event.
For younger children, it is worth checking event timings before travelling. Some evening celebrations can become crowded, while daytime cultural activities may be easier for families with small children.
Are Shops and Restaurants Open on UAE National Day?
A public holiday does not mean that every business in the UAE closes.
Malls, restaurants, hotels, entertainment venues,s and tourist attractions can remain open and often run special National Day promotions or activities. Dubai’s official 2026 retail calendar specifically includes retail promotions and family activations during the Eid Al Etihad period.
Opening hours are set by individual businesses, so anyone planning a particular restaurant or attraction should check its current holiday schedule.
Government offices generally follow the official public-holiday arrangements.
Public Transport During UAE National Day
Public transport continues to operate during public holidays, but services can be adjusted around major events.
If you are travelling to a fireworks display, concert or busy public celebration, check the latest information from the relevant transport authority. Roads around popular venues may also become busier than usual, and temporary traffic restrictions can be introduced for large events.
For city-centre celebrations, public transport can sometimes be easier than trying to find parking close to the event.
UAE National Day vs Commemoration Day
These are separate national occasions.
Commemoration Day is observed on 30 November and honours Emiratis who lost their lives while serving the country.
National Day is on 2 December and marks the formation of the UAE federation in 1971. Experience Abu Dhabi identifies 2 December as the day commemorating the agreement that established the UAE.
They fall close together on the calendar, which is why both dates can appear in National Day event programmes.
Is UAE National Day the Same as Union Day?
Yes. Eid Al Etihad is the official national celebration associated with the UAE’s Union Day or National Day.
The name highlights the union of the seven emirates. The official Eid Al Etihad platform describes 2 December as the date when the emirates united under one flag in 1971.
So if you see UAE National Day, Union Day, or Eid Al Etihad, the reference is to the same national occasion.
UAE National Day 2026: Important Dates
Here are the main dates to remember:
| Date | Occasion |
| 30 November 2026 | Commemoration Day |
| 2 December 2026 | UAE National Day / Eid Al Etihad |
| 3 December 2026 | Second National Day holiday |
| 4 December 2026 | Friday after the official holiday |
The official UAE public holiday schedule confirms 2 and 3 December as the National Day holidays.
Dubai’s official 2026 retail calendar lists its Eid Al Etihad celebration period as 30 November–3 December.
What Should Visitors Expect in December?
Visitors in the UAE around 2 December will find the country heavily decorated for the occasion.
Flags and national colours appear throughout cities, while hotels, malls, attractions and public spaces can host special programmes. Fireworks and large gatherings can also affect traffic around particular venues.
If National Day is the main reason for your visit, check the official event schedules before booking activities. Some programmes are announced months ahead, while individual fireworks and entertainment schedules can be confirmed much closer to the date.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is UAE National Day 2026?
UAE National Day 2026 is on Wednesday, 2 December 2026. The official holiday continues on 3 December.
How many days is the UAE National Day holiday in 2026?
The official National Day holiday is two days: 2 and 3 December 2026. The dates apply to both public and private sectors.
Is UAE National Day a public holiday for private companies?
Yes. The UAE Government’s official holiday list applies National Day to both public and private sectors.
What is UAE National Day called?
The official national celebration is called Eid Al Etihad, although UAE National Day and Union Day remain widely used terms.
How old is the UAE in 2026?
The UAE will mark 55 years since its formation in 1971 on National Day 2026.
Why does the UAE celebrate National Day on 2 December?
The date marks the formal establishment of the UAE federation on 2 December 1971, when six emirates formed the country. Ras Al Khaimah joined the federation in February 1972.
Will there be fireworks on UAE National Day 2026?
Yes, fireworks are included in Dubai’s official 2026 Eid Al Etihad programme. Abu Dhabi’s official tourism information also lists fireworks among the celebrations, with specific details to be announced.
Where can I celebrate UAE National Day 2026?
Celebrations take place across all seven emirates. Dubai and Abu Dhabi already have official information about their 2026 celebration periods, while individual venues and other emirates will announce their own programmes.
What can families do on UAE National Day?
Families can attend cultural events, visit attractions, enjoy Emirati food, watch fireworks, spend time at a beach or park, or organise a celebration at home. The official Eid Al Etihad website also provides a Home Guide with activity ideas.
Is 3 December 2026 a holiday in the UAE?
Yes. Thursday, 3 December 2026 is the second official UAE National Day holiday.
What happened on 2 December 1971?
On 2 December 1971, the United Arab Emirates was formally established as an independent federation of six emirates. Ras Al Khaimah joined the federation on 10 February 1972.
Final Answer
UAE National Day 2026 will take place on Wednesday, 2 December, with Thursday, 3 December also an official public holiday. The occasion marks the formation of the UAE federation in 1971 and is officially known as Eid Al Etihad.
The 2026 celebration will mark 55 years of the UAE. Dubai has already confirmed an Eid Al Etihad celebration period from 30 November to 3 December, including fireworks, cultural showcases, retail promotions and family activities. Abu Dhabi will also host celebrations, with cultural experiences and fireworks among the planned activities.
For the most accurate event information, check official announcements close to December. Fireworks locations, timings, road arrangements and individual venue programmes can change, so older National Day schedules should not be treated as confirmed for 2026.
