September 14, 2025 | Dubai, UAE: UAE public holidays for National Day 2025 celebrations promise to be big, with the United Arab Emirates confirmed to host huge Eid Al Etihad events early in December in celebration of its 54th jaar. The country is to be on rest days on December 2 and 3, but the inclusion of December 1 in a holiday date could provide people with an extended break over the long weekend. With UAE public holidays now officially announced for two days, residents are awaiting news of a possible extension.

National Day Holidays and Festivities

Eid Al Etihad, known as the “Festival of the Union,” commemorates the formation of the UAE on December 2, 1971. This year marks the 54th anniversary of the Union, a significant milestone in the nation’s history.

Authorities have confirmed December 2 (Tuesday) and December 3 (Wednesday) as official UAE public holidays. Residents are awaiting confirmation on December 1, which, if approved, would create a four-day weekend. This extended break would allow families more time to participate in nationwide festivities and encourage travel across the country. The growing anticipation reflects the importance of UAE National Day 2025 as one of the year’s most celebrated occasions.

The celebrations will feature large-scale cultural and entertainment programs in all seven emirates. Organizers have prepared:

• Fireworks and drone shows at iconic sites such as Abu Dhabi Corniche, Yas Island, and Dubai Festival City.
  
• Cultural programs, including traditional music, dance, and poetry recitals in heritage villages and public parks.
  
• Concerts and live events showcasing both Emirati and international performers, with schedules to be announced in the coming weeks.
  
• Family-friendly activities in community spaces like Global Village, Hatta, and Sharjah’s Al Majaz Waterfront.

Public transport networks are expected to extend service hours during the holiday, while local police and municipal authorities will implement traffic and safety measures around key venues.

Significance of the 54th Anniversary

The UAE National Day 2025 celebrations highlight both the country’s heritage and its future ambitions. Since its founding in 1971, the UAE has grown into a global hub for innovation, trade, and cultural exchange. National Day provides an annual opportunity to reflect on these achievements and reaffirm the values of unity and progress.

For Emiratis, Eid Al Etihad is a celebration of national identity and shared history. For the expatriate community, which makes up a large share of the population, the holiday is a chance to engage with Emirati traditions and participate in public festivities. This inclusivity underscores the UAE’s reputation as a diverse and welcoming society.

Read More: Celebrate UAE Eid Al Etihad 2025: A Festival of Unity and Pride in the Emirates

The holiday period also carries important economic implications. Extended breaks often stimulate domestic tourism, with hotels, restaurants, and retail outlets reporting increased demand. Travel agencies typically see a surge in bookings as families use the time to explore destinations within the country or abroad. Businesses expect UAE public holidays like these significantly boost local markets.

Authorities have emphasized that this year’s celebrations will combine cultural authenticity with modern spectacle. Drone shows and large-scale concerts are expected to attract global attention, reinforcing the UAE’s image as a nation that honors tradition while embracing innovation.

Looking Ahead

Two significant announcements are currently awaited: the potential designation of December 1 as a public holiday and the final selection of the venue for the central National Day ceremony. In prior years, locations of both cultural and natural importance, including Jebel Hafeet in Al Ain, have hosted the official program. It is anticipated that a similarly meaningful venue will be confirmed in the forthcoming weeks. 

Regardless of whether the extended break is implemented, the 54th UAE National Day 2025 is poised to present one of the most elaborate Eid Al Etihad celebrations to date. Residents and visitors can anticipate a combination of cultural pride, contemporary entertainment, and large-scale public gatherings that embody the enduring spirit of the Union during the much awaited UAE public holidays.

Also Read: UAE Eid al Etihad 2025, A Celebration full of Unity and Joy Across the Country