All You Need to Know About the UAE National Day 2024

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With the United Arab Emirates set to observe its 51st National day on 2nd December 2022, the government of UAE is all set to organise numerous events in different Emirates. The official celebration, will take place at the National Exhibition Centre in Abu Dhabi. 

Besides the festivities, the government officials made another exuberant announcement for all UAE nationals and expatriates. After the official celebration on the UAE national day, ADNEC will continue its celebration for nine consecutive days, that is, from 3rd to 11th December.

A Glimpse of UAE National Day from the Past!

Since 1973, the UAE has celebrated its foundation day while abiding by the official theme, “Spirit of the Union”. Back on 2nd December 1971, the rulers of Dubai, Ajman, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Umm al-Quwain, and Al-Ain agreed to unite as one nation. As per the consent of the country’s first president, the Late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE came into form. Post this, in February 1972, Ras Al Khaimah was declared the seventh Emirate of the UAE. 

As one may expect considering the significance of the day, the entire UAE celebrates its grand day with pride and plenty of enthusiasm. Hues of black, red, white, and green are visible all over the streets on the UAE national day. 

Each colour of the flag is not without its significance, though. Here’s what each colour symbolises here –

  • Red: Represents unity
  • Green: Depicts prosperity
  • Black: Portrays strength of mind and defeat of enemies
  • White: Represents peace and honesty

A Long Weekend for Public and Private Sectors

This year, the entire private and public sector will get to enjoy a long weekend from 1st to 4th December 2022. For the commemoration day on 30th November 2022 to pay tribute to UAE’s martyrs, the government has announced a public holiday on 1st December. 

Following that, the whole nation will celebrate its foundation day and also get ample time to take a break from their regular busy lives and enjoy the long weekend. Individuals can plan a mini vacation with their friends and family or even participate in the UAE national day celebrations.

UAE National Days Celebrations and Events 

All seven Emirates hold multiple events on the UAE national day. The roads of the UAE become exquisitely colourful for the time, courtesy of the parades and processions. People even deck up their cars with motifs and other decorative items, celebrate with marching bands, and dress up in traditional attire to express their reverence for the culture and the country, which adds to the majestic visuals of the day. 

If you plan to attend any events of UAE national day 2022, take a look at the major events that are planned for 2nd December 2022 – 

ADNEC Celebrations

This year’s official celebration will be conducted at the ADNEC, which is short for Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. Various cultural events showcasing moving vignettes across generations, exclusive technologies, and storytelling performances inspired by the rich culture and heritage of the UAE would be held. This is not all – other performances that include a glimpse of the future of the country with the same enthusiasm as that for the past would also be there.

Fireworks

Fireworks are an essential part of the UAE national day celebrations. Multiple attractions in the country conduct firework performances – you can experience some amazing ones at Palm Jumeirah, Emirates Palace, The Galleria Al Maryah Island, The Beach, Al Seef, and La Mer.

Grand Celebration in Sharjah

As mentioned, after the opening ceremony at the Sharjah National Park, numerous events would be organised in different places across the emirates. If you plan to visit Sharjah, recognised as the ‘Cultural Capital of the Arab Region’ by UNESCO, during the National day, you can find a myriad of attractions there. 

You can visit Al Majaz Amphitheatre, Khorfakkan Amphitheatre, Kalba and Wadi Al Helo, Al Madam, and Dibba Al-Hisn to enjoy the culture of the UAE through traditional performances such as singing, poetic events, and national operetta. Other than that, several exciting activities such as sports events, horse shows, camel racing, and more would be organised.

Concerts

Fond of music? Don’t forget to attend the concerts at Al Seef and La Mer! You can enjoy the live music of your favourite singers while celebrating the tradition of the UAE. Events in La Mer will begin on 29th November and go on till 2nd December. 

Keep in mind that this is just one of the many such events for the time being. You can also attend the concert at Al Seef on 6th December. In addition, a performance by the renowned Hamad Al Amri would be held, for which one can attend the concert at the Global Village.

Palm Jumeirah’s Cultural Flair

If you are keen on exploring the traditional culture of the UAE, the Cultural Flair organised in Palm Jumeirah would be the ideal place for you. Some of the most renowned sculptors, painters, dancers, and singers will be the highlight of the night.

Do’s and Don’ts on National Day 2022

Even with the colossal celebrations of the National day, here are a few things you must keep in your mind to avoid any violation of the guidelines stated by the government – 

  • Individuals can decorate their cars for the big day between 22nd November and 6th December
  • While decorating cars, make sure not to change the colour of cars partially or completely
  • Individuals must remain seated in their respective seats and not lean out of the window to enjoy events or use their cars’ sunroofs
  • Tinting or painting the front windshield is strictly prohibited
  • Noise amplifiers are not allowed for motorists
  • Avoid littering anywhere outside
  • Make sure not to abruptly park or leave your car somewhere on the road, as this can lead to unusual traffic and fines

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