Things to Do in Dubai for UAE National Day

Here's different ways to celebrate one of the biggest days in the UAE's calendar, UAE National Day! Find out what's on...

Posted on

27 November 2016

| Last updated on 30 November 2020

by Rebecca Roberts

Things to Do in Dubai for UAE National Day

**Updated for 2020 by Clarice Awa

Every year on December 2nd, the country is filled with reds, greens, blacks and whites to mark the anniversary of the UAE's creation...

The UAE as we know today follows the unification of the seven emirates back in 1971, which means this year, the country celebrates 49 years of a unified independence on UAE National Day.

Celebrations are week-long - sometimes two! - as locals, residents and tourists alike join in the fun-filled activities, entertainment and celebrations to honour the country many of us have chosen to call home today.

This year, UAE authorities announced strict Covid-19 precautionary measures for National Day, including a temporary ban on gatherings and gift/food-exchange. We take a look at activities you can do with your immediate family and loved ones, while keeping safe during the holidays.

To honour the country's anniversary, both public and private sectors are granted days off work to enjoy what's on! Don't miss out on all of the fun...

1. Enjoy the fireworks

Popular go-to Dubai attractions are hosting huge fireworks displays for UAE National Day.

Here's where you can watch the UAE National Day fireworks for 2020:

Dubai Festival City Mall
The Pointe
Global Village

You can enjoy the spectacular fireworks displays for free at these locations (with the exception of Global Village which will require an AED 15 entrance fee). Most of the fireworks will take place between 8 PM to 9 PM on December 2.

**Kindly note that due to strict Covid-19 measures, physical distancing will be enforced and spaces will be limited to view the fireworks.

2. Head to Global Village

Every winter in Dubai, Global Village reopens its doors - and UAE National Day is the perfect chance to head down there to see what's new in this popular Dubai attraction. In previous years they've also held fireworks displays, and one year they even invited Dubai Police to show off their exotic cars!

Normally there's a week-long celebration at Global Village for UAE National Day; they include Emirati shows, decorations, a parade and extended trading hours. So take your day off work as a chance to explore this favourite go-to place for residents and tourists.

3. Spend it at the beach

Head to any one of Dubai's popular beaches - like The Beach in JBR, or La Mer, or Kite Beach - and you'll no doubt find food spots, activities and entertainment to enjoy for UAE National Day. Points for spotting traditional Emirati bands and entertainment!

Just remember - gatherings are prohibited for UAE National Day 2020. Residents are reminded to follow the safety guidelines and keep outings within your immediate family members.

4. Dubai Festival City's light and laser show

A newly installed light show at Dubai Festival City Mall is proving extremely popular for Dubai residents recently. The show, titled IMAGINE, is a mix of art installations, light, and laser shows and for UAE National Day, they'll be putting on a grand fireworks display.

5. Splurge in Dubai's malls

Before Christmas takes over retail outlets, Dubai's biggest and best malls are filled with UAE National Day decorations. Head to Mall of the Emirates or Dubai Mall to awe at their huge displays and decorations in honour of this prestigious day.

Plus, a lot of shops will be having huge discounts and sales that you can take advantage of and treat yourself this December 2nd.

6. Head for a staycation

A long weekend means you have plenty of time to enjoy a trip to one of the UAE's best staycation spots. Get away from the hustle and bustle of Dubai - check out daily deals site Cobone for the best staycation deals this UAE National Day.