UAE National Day 2025 Fireworks: Best Places to Watch Across Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Dubai: The UAE is gearing up to dazzle the skies in celebration of its 54th National Day (Eid Al Etihad), marking the founding of the nation on December 2, 1971. From November 27 to December 3, residents and visitors can enjoy a weeklong spectacle of fireworks, parades, concerts, and cultural shows across the Emirates.

Dubai Highlights:

Global Village will be among the most popular destinations, hosting nightly fireworks from December 1 to 3 at 9 PM. The celebrations will also feature UAE-themed drone shows on December 1 and 2, adding a modern twist to the festivities. Visitors can enjoy the theatrical dance operetta “From the Desert to the Stars,” performed twice daily, alongside traditional Yola and Harbiya shows. Adding to the excitement, Khalid Mohammed will perform live on December 1 at 9 PM. Standard entryz tickets to Global Village apply.

At The Beach, JBR, the sky will light up on December 2 at 9 PM, offering breathtaking views from the beachfront and nearby Bluewaters Island. The area’s lively atmosphere, dining spots, and sea views make it a prime location for families and visitors looking to enjoy the National Day spirit.

Abu Dhabi: In the capital, the celebrations will be equally grand. Yas Island Waterfront will host two nights of fireworks on December 2 and 3 at 9 PM, with festivities beginning at 3 PM. The event will feature cultural performances, falconry displays, and the Flag Garden showcasing 54 flags, each symbolizing a year of unity.

Visitors can also enjoy Emirati handicrafts, henna art, calligraphy sessions, coffee portraits, and local cuisine. A classic car exhibition will add a nostalgic touch to the celebrations. Entry is free, but registration via the Yas Bay website is recommended.

Another must-see display will take place at the Emirates Palace, Mandarin Oriental, where fireworks will begin at 9:15 PM on December 2. The hotel’s National Day festivities run from November 29 to December 3, featuring children’s activities, art workshops, and a daily façade illumination from November 30 to December 4—projecting vibrant colors and patterns in tribute to the UAE. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Al Ayala dance performances between 4 PM and 10 PM, while children participate in pottery workshops.

Celebrate the Spirit of the Union:

With multiple fireworks displays, traditional performances, and family-friendly events, the UAE’s 54th National Day promises to be an unforgettable celebration of unity, pride, and culture. Whether you’re in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, the skies will sparkle with the colors of the nation’s flag and the joy of its people.