The UAE National Day is one of the country’s most joyful celebrations. Every year on December 2, people across the Emirates celebrate the birth of the nation. The day honours the country’s unity, culture, and history. Streets light up in red, green, black, and white. Families and friends gather to watch parades, fireworks, and cultural shows, making the UAE National Day weekend a perfect occasion for everyone to come together and celebrate.
In 2025, the celebration will mark the 54th UAE National Day, also known as Eid Al Etihad. This year’s holiday could be extra special. With official holidays on December 2 and 3, and Commemoration Day on December 1, residents may enjoy a longer weekend. Many people are hoping for a four- or even five-day break to relax, travel, and take part in the festivities.
When is UAE National Day 2025?
In 2025, the UAE National Day will mark its 54th anniversary on Tuesday, December 2. Traditionally, the official public holidays for National Day are December 2 and December 3, giving workers a two-day break.
However, according to the UAE public holiday law, holidays can sometimes be shifted to the start or end of the week to create longer breaks. This means there’s a chance for a four-day or even five-day weekend in 2025.
If Monday, December 1 (Commemoration Day) is declared a public holiday, the long weekend could stretch from Monday, December 1, to Friday, December 3, giving residents plenty of time to celebrate, relax, and spend quality time with family.
What is Commemoration Day?
Commemoration Day takes place every year on December 1 in the UAE. It honours the Emirati heroes who sacrificed their lives to protect and serve the nation. The day reflects deep values of courage, loyalty, and love for the country. Across the Emirates, communities raise flags, attend prayers, and take part in ceremonies that celebrate these brave individuals.
Each year, the UAE Cabinet decides whether Commemoration Day will also be a paid public holiday. In some years, it remains a working day; however, in others, it becomes part of the UAE National Day celebrations. If it is added in 2025, residents could enjoy a longer weekend. This would give both the public and private sectors more time to celebrate, rest, and reflect on the UAE’s growth and unity.
Overall, Commemoration Day is a time for gratitude and national pride. It reminds everyone of the sacrifices made for peace and progress, while also marking the start of the UAE’s National Day week, a period filled with celebration and togetherness.
Why the UAE National Day is Now Called Eid Al Etihad
The phrase Eid Al Etihad means “Celebration of the Union.” It is not a new name for the UAE National Day. Instead, it is a return to the original Arabic title used by the nation’s founders to describe this important day.
The name was brought back before last year’s celebrations to highlight the UAE’s true identity. It places the union of the emirates at the center of the occasion and reminds everyone of the country’s history and unity. Rather than being a change, it’s a way to honor the authentic title that reflects the UAE’s spirit of togetherness and belonging.
By using the term Eid Al Etihad, the UAE unites its people under one message. It connects the language, culture, and identity of all institutions, partners, and citizens. This name also links today’s celebrations to the nation’s roots, while looking ahead to a shared and proud future under one flag.
What Dates to Expect
As of now, the UAE National Day 2025 holidays are confirmed for Tuesday, December 2, and Wednesday, December 3. These two days will mark the country’s 54th National Day celebrations across the Emirates.
However, there is a chance that Monday, December 1 (Commemoration Day) could also be declared an official holiday. If this happens, residents may enjoy a four-day or even five-day weekend. This would give both the public and private sectors extra time to celebrate, travel, and spend time with family.
The UAE Cabinet will confirm the final dates closer to the celebration. Updates are usually announced a few weeks before December, so residents can plan their holidays and staycations in advance.
UAE National Day, or Eid Al Etihad, is more than just a public holiday; it’s a proud celebration of unity, progress, and heritage. Every year, residents and citizens come together to honor the vision of the nation’s founders and reflect on how far the Emirates has come.
From dazzling fireworks to cultural shows and family gatherings, the spirit of the Union can be felt everywhere. As the country continues to grow and welcome people from all around the world, Eid Al Etihad reminds everyone of the values that make the UAE truly special.
From all of us at Milestone Homes, we wish you a joyful and memorable UAE National Day weekend filled with happiness, peace, and togetherness.
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