10 Ways to spend the 4-day long UAE National Day weekend

Dubai: The UAE is gearing up to celebrate its 54th National Day with a four-day long weekend packed with festivities, fireworks and family fun. From stunning flag displays to spectacular shows at iconic landmarks, here's your guide to making the most of the celebrations.

The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources has announced that Monday and Tuesday, 1–2 December 2025, will be official holidays for the UAE’s 54th Union Day, giving federal employees a four-day weekend.

Here are 10 ways you can spend the long weekend and join in the spirit of Eid-Al-Etihad.

Thousands of UAE flags have been lined up next to one of Dubai's most iconic landmarks as part of the national celebrations. Now in its 12th year, the flag garden at Umm Suqeim Beach sits in the shadow of Burj Al Arab and always makes for a colourful addition to the city. This season, the UAE Flag Garden runs from Friday October 31 and is set to close on Saturday January 10.

Global Village will kick off the celebrations on Thursday November 27 and keep the party going until Wednesday December 3. The National Day festivities will include spectacular fireworks, colourful drone shows and a theatrical dance operetta. Fireworks will light up the night sky in the colours of the UAE flag at 9pm on Monday December 1, Tuesday December 2 and Wednesday December 3. A UAE-themed drone show will be held on December 1 and 2.

Expo City will host UAE National Day celebrations between Friday November 28 and Tuesday December 2. Whilst no exact events have been confirmed, you can expect live performances at the immersive Al Wasl Dome to be amongst the highlights.

The world's tallest building is set to host a massive fireworks display to mark the UAE National Day celebrations. Burj Khalifa lights up with bright colours whilst fireworks surround the building. The show is likely to be visible throughout Dubai. If you're up close, you'll also be treated to a special show by the recently reopened Dubai Fountain.

Mushrif Park is one of the most popular public parks in the city and it's set to host two days of celebrations marking the annual festivities. On Tuesday December 2 and Wednesday December 3, Mushrif Park will be home to special events marking the foundation of the UAE.

Celebrate the 54th Eid Al Etihad with the incredible Balqees live in concert at Festival Bay, Dubai Festival City Mall on December 2. Watch her perform some of her greatest hits like 'Enta', 'Ahlan Ya Mama' and 'Alf Rooh', songs that have established her as one of the leading voices in Arabic music. Tickets for the concert start from Dh75.

Catch a dazzling fireworks display on December 2 as Dubai celebrates the 54th Eid Al Etihad. Lighting up the night sky over Festival Bay, the stunning show begins at 8pm, the perfect way to mark the occasion in true UAE style. The concert with Balqees begins right after the fireworks display.

Found in the historic Dubai Creek neighbourhood, Al Shindagha Museum is the UAE's largest open-air heritage museum. The museum is hosting national celebrations between Saturday November 29 and Wednesday December 3. On UAE National Day itself, Al Shindagha neighbourhood will host a special light projection display.

Take in sights of old and new Dubai from the magnificent Dubai Frame's Sky Deck and get a perspective of the city's past. Make your way to the Future Zone to get a glimpse of what the next 54 years could look like. The architectural landmark is taking part in the national festivities on Tuesday December 2 and Wednesday December 3. Events will be held between 4pm and 7pm at the popular attraction.

Get a 20 per cent discount when you check into this hotel that's located by two fun hangout spots: Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence's The Walk. Not only will you have plenty to do in both these spaces, known for food, entertainment and a delightful view of the night sky, you can also just choose to relax and unwind by the pool or beach, which is a short stroll away. This offer will also get you 20 percent off at some outlets and a hearty breakfast is valid until December 31. If the kids are with you, there's a bonus benefit to consider, stays for two children under six are free.