Why UAE National Day Is Called Eid Al Etihad
<p>Every year on December 2, the UAE celebrates its National Day under the name <strong>Eid Al Etihad</strong> — a title that carries deep historical and cultural meaning. While the day marks the formation of the United Arab Emirates in 1971, the name itself is much more than a label. It reflects the country’s values, identity, and the unity that binds the seven emirates together.</p><h2><strong>What Eid Al Etihad Means</strong></h2><p>The phrase <strong>“Eid Al Etihad”</strong> translates to <strong>“Festival of the Union”</strong>. The word <i>Etihad</i> means union, a reference to the historic moment when the rulers of the seven emirates agreed to come together as one nation. This union forms the foundation of the UAE’s national identity.</p><p>The official Eid Al Etihad website explains the meaning beautifully: the celebration reminds the nation that <strong>“our strength lies in the bonds we build hand in hand.”</strong> It honours the people — citizens and residents alike — whose unity and shared purpose have shaped the UAE over the decades.</p><p>In 2024, the organising committee officially adopted the name Eid Al Etihad for National Day celebrations. The new identity better reflects the spirit of togetherness, pride, and community that has defined the UAE since its formation.</p><h2><strong>Eid Al Etihad 2025: Theme and Vision</strong></h2><p>As the UAE prepares to commemorate its <strong>54th Union anniversary</strong> in 2025, the organising committee has unveiled the theme for this year’s celebration: <strong>“United.”</strong> The theme highlights the shared sense of belonging felt across the seven emirates, representing cultural, social, and national unity.</p><p>Earlier in October, representatives from every emirate gathered to coordinate plans for the celebrations, ensuring a single unified vision for the entire country. According to the Eid Al Etihad team, the 2025 celebrations embody “the shared spirit of the Union and the cultural and social bonds that connect everyone who calls the UAE home.”</p><h2><strong>The Story Behind the 2025 Visual Identity</strong></h2><p>The branding and visual identity for Eid Al Etihad 2025 take inspiration from the UAE’s formative years. Designers looked back at photographs and signs from the early days of the nation under the leadership of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.</p><p>Seven emblems were selected to represent the identity of each emirate, using cultural and natural symbols such as:</p><p><strong>Palm tree</strong> – symbolizing life and heritage</p><p><strong>Historic dhow</strong> – representing maritime history</p><p><strong>Rising sun</strong> – symbolizing hope and progress</p><p><strong>Traditional dances (Al Ayyala and Al Naashat)</strong> – reflecting cultural pride</p><p><strong>Fort</strong> – representing strength and protection</p><p><strong>Pearl oysters</strong> – paying tribute to the UAE’s early pearl-diving economy</p><p>These elements highlight the land, sea, traditions, and spirit of the Emirates.</p><p>The number <strong>54</strong>, marking the 54th anniversary of the Union, was inspired by the design of UAE vehicle licence plates. This creative choice symbolizes movement, progress, and the connection between people across the country.</p><p>To maintain consistency, the committee has released detailed guidelines for how these visual elements should appear on digital platforms, billboards, merchandise, flags, and government buildings.</p><h2><strong>How the Nation Celebrates Eid Al Etihad</strong></h2><p>Eid Al Etihad is celebrated across all seven emirates with spectacular events, cultural activities, and family-friendly entertainment. While each emirate adds its own cultural flavour, the celebrations all share the same spirit of national pride.</p><p>In recent years, popular destinations like <strong>Global Village</strong>, <strong>Hatta</strong>, and <strong>Festival Promenade</strong> have set up special Eid Al Etihad zones offering:</p><p>Live performances</p><p>Artistic displays</p><p>Food stalls and cultural experiences</p><p>Interactive installations</p><p>Entertainment for families and children</p><p>For 2025, celebrations will include fireworks, drone shows, traditional performances, parades, and themed decorations across major landmarks.</p><h2><strong>Fireworks and Festivities: What to Expect in 2025</strong></h2><p>From <strong>November 27 to December 3</strong>, residents can enjoy a full week of events across the UAE. A few confirmed highlights include:</p><h3><strong>Dubai</strong></h3><p><strong>Global Village:</strong></p><p>Fireworks nightly from <strong>December 1–3 at 9pm</strong></p><p>UAE-themed drone shows on <strong>December 1–2</strong></p><p>A theatrical dance operetta “<i>From the Desert to the Stars</i>” (performed twice daily)</p><p>Traditional Yola and Harbiya shows</p><p>Live performance by Emirati singer <strong>Khalid Mohammed</strong> on December 1</p><p><strong>The Beach at JBR:</strong><br>Fireworks on <strong>December 2 at 9pm</strong>, with excellent viewing near Bluewaters Island.</p><h3><strong>Abu Dhabi</strong></h3><p><strong>Yas Island Waterfront:</strong></p><p>Fireworks on <strong>December 2 and 3 at 9pm</strong></p><p>Festivities from 3pm, including falconry shows, traditional food stalls, henna art, handicrafts, and a Flag Garden featuring 54 UAE flags</p><p>Entry is free, though registration may be required on the official website</p><h2><strong>More Than a Name — A National Identity</strong></h2><p>Eid Al Etihad is more than just a celebration date or an official name. It reflects the UAE’s story: a nation built through unity, shared purpose, and the enduring belief that progress happens when people stand together.</p><p>As the UAE prepares to celebrate its 54th year of union, Eid Al Etihad continues to be a powerful reminder of heritage, pride, and the strong bonds that make the Emirates one of the most united nations in the world.</p>