Photo: Getty
Sunday, December 2 is the 47th UAE National Day. Read on for the different ways you can mark the festive occasion in the Emirates.
“This Is Zayed. This Is the UAE”, Abu Dhabi
Zayed Sports City Stadium is celebrating the UAE’s 47th birthday with an official celebration entitled “This is Zayed. This is the UAE” on December 2. The fun-filled event will include spectacular live performances by the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra alongside traditional musical acts to honor the life of the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Tickets for the visual show, which kicks off at 3pm, can be purchased online.
Al Jahili Fort, Al Ain
History buffs can head over to the centuries-old Jahili Fort in Al Ain, which is set to host a line-up of National Day festivities on December 2. These include a theatrical spectacle, organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, that will tell the story of the union of the seven emirates utilizing audio and visual effects and projections. The hour-long performance will start at 7pm, and will be presented in Arabic and English.
Firework Displays
The skies will be illuminated with an explosion of firework displays during the holiday. La Mer, JBR, Dubai Festival City Mall, and Al Seef are some of the prime spots in Dubai to catch a dazzling evening of fireworks. Those in Abu Dhabi can head to Yas Island’s Marina Circuit, where the night sky will be lit up with the colors of the UAE flag as part of the #LetYourColoursGo celebrations on December 2, which will also include live music, street performers, and art, among other festivities.
Global Village, Dubai
The six-month-long shopping and entertainment hub will be hosting a line-up of events and interactive activities in celebration of National Day during the long weekend. From November 30 to December 3, Global Village will boast two exclusive events, including a special concert by Emirati singer Hamad Al Ameri (December 2) and a live operetta entitled “Zayed: Leader of the People” (December 1, 2, and 3). Guests can also enjoy free henna art, delectable Emirati street food, and face painting for the little ones.
Concerts
Live concerts from various Arab artists are going to be held throughout the UAE during the long weekend. Dubai’s Burj Park will play host to Waleed Al-Shami and Ahlam, who will be performing for free on December 1. The following day, Hussain Al-Jassmi and Balqees Fathi will serenade crowds at the open-air venue to round out the National Day celebrations. Meanwhile in Sharjah, Arab artists Al Wasmi and Hazzaa Al Raeesy will be performing at The Flag Island Amphitheatre from 8.30pm to 12.30am.
Now Read: 5 National Day Escapes to Book Now Ahead of the Long Weekend
