United Arab Emirates National Day

The United Arab Emirates National Day, also known as Eid Al Etihad, occurs every year on December 2, commemorating the unification of the emirates into a single nation. On that day in 1971, six emirates agreed to form a federal state, establishing the United Arab Emirates as an independent country.

History of United Arab Emirates National Day

On December 2, 1971, the rulers of six former “Trucial States”, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah, signed a provisional constitution and declared the UAE a sovereign federation.
Although the seventh emirate, Ras Al Khaimah, joined slightly later on February 10, 1972, December 2 remains the official date celebrated as the foundation of the state.

Why United Arab Emirates National Day is important

This day marks the birth of a nation founded on unity, cooperation, and shared vision, values that continue to guide the UAE’s development and identity. The union transformed a group of small, diverse emirates into one country with unified governance, enabling social, economic, and cultural progress.

Celebrating National Day also honors the legacy of the founding leaders,notably Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and acknowledges the journey from the separate “Trucial States” to a modern federation. It reinforces a sense of national pride, belonging, and forward-looking unity among citizens and residents alike.

• It celebrates the founding of the United Arab Emirates in 1971.
• It honors the leadership and vision behind the unification of emirates.
• It reinforces national unity and a shared identity across diverse emirates.
• It commemorates the country’s progress from modest beginnings to global prominence.
• It serves as a reminder of collective values: cooperation, heritage, and ambition.

How to Celebrate United Arab Emirates National Day

Across the UAE, National Day is marked with grand public celebrations: fireworks, flag displays, cultural performances, concerts, light shows on skyscrapers, and heritage events, a festive reflection of national pride and unity.

Communities often decorate homes, streets, and cars with the UAE flag colors; people wear national colors, attend events, and enjoy special offers, concerts, and public gatherings that unite citizens and expatriates alike. It’s a time to celebrate heritage, shared identity, and the nation’s progress together.

• Watch fireworks and light shows across major cities.
• Display the UAE flag at home, on vehicles, or in public places.
• Participate in cultural shows, concerts or public events celebrating heritage.
• Dress in the national colors and join the festive street atmosphere.
• Reflect on the values of unity, cooperation, and shared national pride.