UAE National Day 2025 holiday: Plan for a long weekend

Almosafer
1 day ago
5 min read

Every year, on 2 December, the country celebrates the anniversary of the federation's founding in 1971, which united the seven emirates into a single entity under the leadership of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

This date is not just a holiday, but an exceptional moment when we celebrate the UAE's Independence Day and renew our loyalty and belonging to this great nation.

Whether you live in the UAE or are planning a visit, UAE Day is the perfect opportunity to discover the spirit of the Union and enjoy an unforgettable festive atmosphere throughout the country.

Recommended Reading: UAE National Day 2025: A Celebration of Unity And Culture

Don't miss your chance to plan a long weekend getaway on UAE Public Holidays 2025!

This year, the Emirates National Day holiday is coming at the perfect time!

Since December 2 falls on a Monday, and the official holiday falls on December 2 and 3, you can simply extend your weekend and enjoy five straight days of rest, entertainment, and memory-making from Friday to Tuesday!

Whether you're travelling within the country or looking for a quick getaway, this is your chance to

Start planning early to save time, peace of mind, and your budget.

Book your flight and hotel early.
Check out early travel offers.
Take advantage of special offers for the UAE National Day holiday

UAE National Day holiday: destinations inside and outside UAE

Destinations inside the UAE

The UAE National Day holiday is the perfect time to discover the beauty around you within the country, especially as each emirate prepares with exceptional events and unique experiences to suit all tastes.

1. Dubai - Everything in one place

Why? Because it's the beating heart of the festivities, offering everything from shopping to world-class dining to UAE National Day events.

Suggested activities:
Dubai Fountain shows
Fireworks at Burj Khalifa
Hatta Heritage Festival
Shopping at The Dubai Mall
Suggested length of stay: 3 days
Recommended Hotels:

Address Downtown Hotel

Rove City Walk Hotel

Atlantis The Palm Hotel

Recommended Reading: Discover The 31 Best Things to Do in Dubai in 2025

2. Ras Al Khaimah - Beach relaxation and nature

Why? It offers a quiet and sophisticated experience, suitable for families or couples looking for tranquillity away from the crowds.

Suggested activities:
Hiking at Jebel Jais
Staying at seaside resorts
Fireworks display
Suggested length of stay: 2 to 3 days
Recommended Hotels:

Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah

Rixos Bab Al Bahr

InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah

3. Abu Dhabi - Culture, Art, Official Events

Why? Because it is the capital of culture and the arts, and is home to the most beautiful official celebrations of the UAE National Day.

Suggested activities:
Louvre Abu Dhabi
Drone Shows
Corniche celebrations
Suggested length of stay: 2 - 3 days
Recommended Hotels:

Emirates Palace Hotel

The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi

Rosewood Hotel Abu Dhabi

Nearby destinations outside the UAE

If you're looking for a change of scenery and a quick road trip, you have some great options that are easy to reach in less than three hours. Perfect for your UAE National Day holiday, without the hassle of long flights or complicated visas.

1. Oman - natural tranquillity and mountain magic

Suggested Activities:

Tours of Muttrah and its popular souk
Relaxing on mangrove beaches
Mountain climbing in Jabal Shams

Flight time: 1.5 hours

Suggested length of stay: 3 days

Recommended Hotels:

Kempinski Hotel Muscat
The Chedi Muscat
InterContinental Muscat

2. Georgia - European flavour with stunning scenery

Suggested Activities:

Historic tours of Tbilisi
Visit the Kazbegi Mountains
Experience Georgian cuisine

Flight time: Approximately 3 hours

Suggested length of stay: 4 - 5 days

Recommended Hotels:

Radisson Blu Iveria Hotel
Stamba Hotel Tbilisi
Rooms Tbilisi

UAE National Day Events 2025

The seven emirates are gearing up to launch a host of events to celebrate the UAE National Day. These events are a great opportunity for citizens, residents and visitors to enjoy a patriotic atmosphere that reflects the spirit of unity and belonging.

Dubai

Dubai is one of the UAE's most prominent cities in organising national events, with celebrations spread across the emirate.

Some of the most anticipated events:

Fireworks displays at Burj Khalifa, The Beach at Jumeirah Beach Residence and Dubai Festival City.
Concerts by Emirati and Gulf artists.
Illuminated drone shows at Bluewaters.
Heritage events in the Al Fahidi neighbourhood and the Seef area.

Check out: Discover 31 top things to do in Dubai in 2025

2. Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, the cultural and political capital of the UAE, presents a festive programme that combines modernity and tradition.

Highlights include:

Air shows by military aviation teams.
Light shows on the Abu Dhabi Corniche.
The Sheikh Zayed Festival in Al Wathba, which includes heritage, art and traditional cuisine.
Events at the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Al Hosn Palace.

3. Sharjah, Al Ain and Ras Al Khaimah

Sharjah will present cultural and musical performances at the waterfront and Al Jazeera Al Hamra.
Al Ain will commemorate National Day with popular parades and performances by folklore troupes.
Ras Al Khaimah will launch huge fireworks on Al Qawasim Corniche with activities for families and children.

Event Timing

Most of the fireworks shows and entertainment events will start after sunset, specifically between 7 and 9 pm, on the 2nd and 3rd of December.

Don't miss out, an unforgettable holiday awaits you

UAE National Day is not just a holiday, it's an occasion that brings with it pride, belonging and appreciation for the journey of the UAE federation. With a long holiday this year, you have a

golden opportunity to enjoy an experience-rich holiday, whether you're at home or on a trip abroad.

Prepare now, organise your destination, book your accommodation, and don't forget that the best memories start with a smart plan and a simple decision.

Take your pick of destinations, discover the best UAE National Day celebrations in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, or venture to nearby destinations such as Oman and Georgia.