UAE National Day, celebrated every year on 2 December, marks the historic unification of the Emirates in 1971. The 2025 celebration promises to be one of the most exciting yet, filled with festivals, fireworks, parades, mall activations, heritage events, live entertainment, and activities spread across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the northern emirates.
Here is a complete, user-friendly guide to what’s happening this year, including dates, times, and what to expect.
If there’s one thing people look forward to every year, it’s the spectacular fireworks and sky shows. In 2025, several major destinations are bringing back their iconic displays, making it easy for families and visitors to choose a spot that suits their vibe.
Date and Time: 1–3 December, 9:00 PM
Global Village remains one of the most family-friendly places to celebrate. The destination will host nightly fireworks from 1 to 3 December at 9:00 PM, followed by themed UAE National Day drone shows on 1 and 2 December.
Date and Time: 2 December, TBD
For those who prefer waterfront views, JBR and Bluewaters will light up their skies on 2 December. It is one of the most popular coastal spots, with restaurants, promenades, and wide-open spaces creating the perfect setup for an evening out.
Date and Time: 2 December, around 8:00 PM
Dubai Festival City Mall hosts a festive firework show around 8:00 PM on 2 December. With its waterfront setting and bustling dining area, this location usually gathers large crowds early.
Date and Time: 2 & 3 December, 9:00 PM
Abu Dhabi residents and visitors can head to Yas Bay Waterfront, where fireworks will take place on 2 and 3 December at 9:00 PM.
Date and Time: 2 December, 9:15 PM
For a more premium experience, Emirates Palace will host its National Day fireworks at 9:15 PM on 2 December. The hotel’s celebrations run from 29 November to 3 December, including workshops, activations, and a stunning façade light-up.
National Day isn’t only about fireworks; the cultural displays, heritage reenactments, and parades bring Emirati traditions to life across the city. Here's what's happening around the UAE during the national holidays 2025:
Date and Time: 2 December, 4:00 PM
City Walk will host a vibrant parade on 2 December at 4:00 PM, featuring government groups, school performances, and community showcases. Traditional dances like Al Ayala and Yola, along with heritage installations, will bring an authentic Emirati feel to the event.
Several heritage destinations will run extended celebrations:
Al Fahidi Historical Village (15 Nov–3 Dec): Traditional performances, cultural exhibits and historical showcases.
Hatta Heritage Village & Winter Camp (15 Nov–3 Dec): Outdoor experiences, Emirati storytelling, family activities, and authentic crafts.
Nad Al Sheba Mall (1-28 Dec): Cultural pop-ups and entertainment.
Dubai Parks & Resorts (28 Nov-7 Dec): Festive shows and family entertainment across multiple theme parks.
With so many events concentrated around 1–3 December, planning is key:
Arrive early for fireworks, especially at waterfront destinations.
Expect traffic and full parking near major beaches, malls, and heritage zones.
Use ride-hailing or delivery services to avoid carrying bulky items or navigating crowds.
Download venue maps if available — Global Village, Yas Bay, and Bluewaters often share them online.
UAE National Day 2025 brings together everything people love about this country — unity, culture, creativity, and a shared sense of belonging. Whether you're watching fireworks at JBR, exploring heritage at Al Fahidi, or enjoying a family day out at Yas Bay Waterfront, each event captures the spirit of 2 December in its own way.
For those preparing gatherings, carrying decorations, setting up family picnics, or sending gifts during the busy period, Lalamove can help you move things easily across Dubai, Sharjah, and all 7 emirates, so your focus stays on celebrating, not logistics.
Download the Lalamove app now and place deliveries to avoid any last-minute rush. Happy long weekend!