Why UAE National Day is officially called Eid Al Etihad
Find out what makes Eid Al Etihad more than just a name and its meaning
Dubai: Each year on December 2, the UAE marks its founding with Eid Al Etihad, a celebration that honours the unity of the seven emirates and the pride of everyone who calls the country home. But what does Eid Al Etihad actually mean and why is it so significant?
What does Eid Al Etihad mean?
The term “Eid Al Etihad” roughly translates to “Festival of the Union” in Arabic. The name highlights Etihad meaning union - which lies at the heart of the UAE’s national identity. It symbolises the country’s enduring values of heritage, strength, and pride.
According to the official Eid Al Etihad website, the celebration is a reminder that “our strength lies in the bonds we build hand in hand, and in the individuals and communities across the nation who, united, carry our story forward.”
Eid Al Etihad is officially celebrated on December 2, marking the historic moment in 1971 when the seven emirates united to form the United Arab Emirates.
In 2024, the UAE’s National Day celebrations were officially named Eid Al Etihad by the organising committee, reflecting the spirit of togetherness.
Eid Al Etihad 2025 theme and design
As the UAE prepares to celebrate its 54th Union anniversary in 2025, the organising committee has unveiled detailed brand guidelines for this year’s Eid Al Etihad celebrations.
The official theme for 2025 is “United”, reflecting the shared spirit of the Union and the cultural and social bonds that connect everyone who calls the UAE home.
In October, representatives from all seven emirates came together to coordinate preparations and ensure a cohesive national approach to the celebrations.
According to the Eid Al Etihad Team, “this year's celebrations reflect the shared spirit of the Union and the cultural and social bonds that connect everyone who calls the UAE home.”
Inspiration behind the visual identity
The visual identity for Eid Al Etihad 2025 draws inspiration from the UAE’s early days, particularly the street signs that appeared during the nation’s formation under the leadership of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
Seven distinct emblems represent each emirate through cultural and natural motifs:
The palm tree
The historic dhow
The rising sun
Traditional dance forms Al Ayyala and Al Naashat
The fort
The pearl oysters
Each element symbolises a part of Emirati identity, drawing from the land, sea, sun, and soul of the Emirates.
The number “54”, representing this year’s anniversary, was inspired by the shape of UAE vehicle licence plates, symbolising movement and connection within the community.
To maintain a consistent national identity, the guidelines specify clear standards for how the Eid Al Etihad visual identity should appear across billboards, flags, digital media, and merchandise.
Nationwide celebrations across the emirates
Eid Al Etihad is celebrated across all seven emirates, and 2025 will be no different. Beyond the main ceremony, expect fireworks, drone shows, cultural performances, and patriotic decorations illuminating landmarks, beaches, and city streets.
In past years, Eid Al Etihad zones have been set up at popular destinations such as Global Village, Hatta, and Festival Promenade, offering interactive experiences and family-friendly entertainment.
Will there be fireworks for UAE National Day 2025?
From November 27 to December 3, residents and visitors can look forward to fireworks, concerts, parades, and cultural events across the country, celebrating the UAE’s founding on December 2, 1971.
Dubai celebrations
Global Village: Nightly fireworks from December 1 to 3 at 9pm, along with UAE-themed drone shows on 1 and 2 December. Visitors can enjoy the theatrical dance operetta From the Desert to the Stars, performed twice daily, alongside traditional Yola and Harbiya performances. Emirati singer Khalid Mohammed will perform live on 1 December at 9pm. Regular entry tickets apply.
The Beach at JBR: A spectacular fireworks display on 2 December at 9pm, with great viewing spots along the beachfront and near Bluewaters Island.
Abu Dhabi celebrations
Yas Island Waterfront: Fireworks on December 2 and 3 at 9pm. The festivities begin at 3pm and include falconry shows, cultural performances, and a Flag Garden featuring 54 flags. Visitors can also enjoy Emirati handicrafts, henna art, coffee portraits, traditional cuisine, and a classic car exhibition. Entry is free, though registration on the Yas Bay website is recommended.
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