The United Arab Emirates’ National Day is observed every December 2nd. Commemorating the formation of the country in 1971, it’s a celebration of the unification of the seven Emirates into a single nation. Increasingly known as Eid al-Etihad, it’s a day for Emiratis and immigrants alike to reflect on the opportunities created by the union and the possibilities that lie ahead.
At Remitly, we understand the importance of integrating into the new society and joining in with the UAE’s National Day celebrations can help you do that. So here’s our guide on how to celebrate it as an expat.
Key historical highlights of UAE National Day
Before unification, the seven separate Emirates that now make up the UAE were generally known as the Trucial States. All that changed in 1971:
Formation of the UAE
On December 2, 1971, the seven Emirates—Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Umm Al-Quwain, Fujairah, Ajman, and Ras Al Khaimah—came together to form a new country by the name of the United Arab Emirates.
First president
The first president of the UAE was Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. He served from the country’s formation until 2004.
Culturally respectful ways to celebrate
While UAE National Day may at first glance feel like it’s strictly for local people, there are a number of ways you can get involved as an immigrant to show your respect for and integration into the nation you now call home.
Attend local events
On the day of the celebrations, different cities host a variety of events including airshows, parades, music, and firework displays, among others. These celebrations may be small in scale if you’re in the smaller cities. However, if you’re in one of the big cities such as Dubai or Abu Dhabi, you should brace yourself for grand shows that will take your breath away. Attending the festivities can be an excellent way for you to show solidarity with the citizens of the country.
You don’t have to do anything spectacular—just go with the moment and join in the dancing or stroll down the street with those in the parade. Attending a music concert can be another way to spend the day in the company of the locals. Firework displays are often the highlight of the day, presenting you with an opportunity to join in the spirit of celebration. They’re usually organised in places like the Dubai Creek, the Corniche in Abu Dhabi, and several other designated areas.
Attending these events will help you gain a deeper understanding of the journey the country and its people have gone through. It’ll also give you a renewed sense of appreciation for the culture and traditions of the UAE.
Understand and embrace local traditions
Another way to celebrate the UAE National day is by taking some time out of your day to learn about local traditions. The good news is that you don’t always have to go to a major event to get an understanding of why the people dance in a certain way, or prepare a certain dish.
People often organise small, neighbourhood events that are open to all. You should feel free to join in and ask questions politely; most people in the UAE are friendly and happy to explain their traditions to you, as long as you remain respectful.
An example of an interesting tradition is the Al-Ayyala, a dance with symbolic sword movements. During its performance, you’ll probably also enjoy the chanting of poetry, drumming, and dance. It’s a striking mixture that symbolises unity, strength, and heritage. During Al-Ayyala, dancers often carry sticks which represent swords. Their movements depict their own mastery of the weapon but also embody the spirit of their warrior ancestors.
Another example is the traditional attire. Men usually wear a kandura, a single-piece garment that reaches down to their knees. It’s often lightweight—unsurprising given that the UAE can experience hot days—and it’s usually white in the UAE, as a matter of national pride.
Women often don the burqa, which symbolises piety, modesty, and heritage. If you’re a woman, there’s no obligation in the UAE to wear a burqa. But appreciating its significance will always help you develop a sense of respect for Emirati people and traditions.
Join community and cultural activities
There are a variety of community events organised for expats to learn about and join in with the UAE National Day celebrations. For instance, different embassies organise events and invite expats from their countries to congregate with other residents of the UAE. Attending such an event can be a good way to meet new people and learn about their cultures and traditions. Apart from embassies, some of the various cultural centres in the UAE also host such events from time to time.
If you attend one of these you’ll get to enjoy traditional foods, music, poetry, and dance, among other things. So they’re well worth making the effort.
Celebrate with the national colours and anthem of the UAE
Embracing the national colours of the country can be another way for you to show appreciation and respect. You can do this by decorating your home or office with the national colours. Additionally, you can wear the colours or fly the national flag. But beyond these actions, it’s also important that you understand the meanings behind the colours.
- Red: The red stripe on the national flag symbolises bravery, strength, and courage.
- Green: The green stripe stands for prosperity, and can also mean joy and optimism.
- Black: The black stripe stands for dignity and strength of mind.
- White: The white stripe symbolises peace and honesty of the country and its people.
The flag is extremely important to the people of the UAE; in fact it’s a crime to insult or disrespect it, and the flag has its own national day on November 3rd. So remember to treat it with every respect.
You may well hear the UAE’s national anthem being played on December 2nd. You can show your respect by standing up when it starts, or turning to face the flag and remaining silent until it’s done. In case you’re walking, just pause for the anthem to play out first. After all, it often takes less than a minute and this is an important show of respect.
Engage online
Another excellent way for you to celebrate UAE National Day as an expat is to engage meaningfully through different online platforms.
For instance, displaying the national flag or colours on your social media profile can be a great sign of appreciation and respect. Share pictures or videos of events of the day on different forums just to create awareness about the country’s National Day. You can also join in discussions that centre around the day’s festivities and events. Always be respectful with the comments you make, and feel free to ask questions about things you don’t understand.
Where to find information on celebrations
As an immigrant, you may be unfamiliar with all these events and activities that take place around the country on the National Day. The good news is that there are plenty of resources you can use to find information.
UAE government websites
Government websites are often a reliable source of information about national holidays, celebrations, and official events. You can start your fact-finding mission by visiting the official UAE portal.
Cultural centres
Another option you can turn to. Some examples of cultural centres that can be of help include the Cultural Foundation of Abu Dhabi and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding.
Local event listings
Local event venues often post listings about upcoming events, so consider keeping an eye on these. You can also browse through social media pages to find information about different events and celebrations scheduled to take place near you.
Books
There are plenty of books about the UAE and its history, culture, and much more. Some of the most helpful examples include The Emirates: A Natural History by Peter Hellyer and Simon Aspinall, and Keepers of the Golden Shore by Michael Quentin Morton.
You can also learn more about the UAE’s holidays in our article on the most important dates.
Enjoy the day
The UAE National Day is a day of great pride for the people of the nation, but it’s an occasion for everybody—an opportunity for expats from all parts of the world to join in and show their appreciation of the people and the country.
Flying the national flag, trying out local cuisine, joining in cultural dances if you’re invited, and learning more about the UAE are all excellent ways for you to enjoy the day.
FAQs
Are there any specific dress codes for UAE National Day events?
There’s no formal dress code for the UAE National Day. However, most people prefer to don the traditional attire which includes the kandura for men and the burqa for women. The key to enjoying the day is to dress modestly, in line with local laws and customs.
Are there any activities specific to the expat community?
Yes, a large number of expat communities organise their own National Day celebrations in different parts of the country. These can include social gatherings, dinners, and cultural celebrations.
Can I display the UAE flag at my home during the National Day celebrations?
Yes, you’re free to display the UAE flag at your home. This is a sign of respect and appreciation to the country and its people.