UAE National Day 2025: Parade and Fireworks Viewing Guide
The United Arab Emirates is all set to come alive with colour, music, and patriotic pride as the nation marks its 54th Eid Al Etihad, formerly known as National Day. Celebrated annually on December 2, Eid Al Etihad commemorates the unification of the Emirates in 1971 and honours the values of unity, heritage, and progress.
In 2025, celebrations promise to be bigger and more inclusive than ever, with parades, cultural performances, fireworks, and public screenings taking place across all seven Emirates. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, there are plenty of opportunities to be part of the festivities.
Here is a comprehensive guide on where to watch the Eid Al Etihad parades and celebrations across the UAE.
Dubai: Parade at City Walk
Dubai will once again host one of the country’s most vibrant Eid Al Etihad parades. The main parade will take place at City Walk on December 1, starting at 4pm.
The Dubai parade will feature:
The Dubai Police Marching Band
Horse-mounted Dubai Police officers
Cadets from the Dubai Police Academy
Community groups and cultural performers
The parade blends tradition with modern spectacle, making it one of the most popular viewing spots in the country. Nearby restaurants, cafés, and open spaces make City Walk ideal for families.
Fireworks will also light up the sky at popular destinations such as Global Village and Dubai Festival City, adding to the festive atmosphere throughout the city.
Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Festival Takes Centre Stage
In the capital, celebrations will be anchored at the renowned Sheikh Zayed Festival in Al Wathba.
Key highlights include:
Eid Al Etihad Parade on December 4
Daily Eid Al Etihad Convoy shows from December 1 to 3 at 4:30pm and 7:40pm
Traditional Emirati performances, crafts, and heritage displays
Abu Dhabi will also host multiple public screenings of the official Eid Al Etihad ceremony, allowing residents across the emirate to watch together in community venues and majlis locations.
Ras Al Khaimah: Maritime Parade and Corniche Festivities
Ras Al Khaimah offers a unique coastal celebration. The Maritime Parade will kick off on December 1 at 3pm, showcasing decorated boats and marine performances.
Later in the evening, celebrations will continue at Al Qawasim Corniche from 4pm to 11pm, featuring:
National parades
Cultural shows
Festive entertainment for all ages
The emirate will also host fireworks and public screenings, making it a top destination for National Day visitors.
Sharjah: Heritage-Focused Celebrations
Sharjah’s Eid Al Etihad events emphasise culture and tradition. Celebrations in Al Batayeh will continue until November 29, featuring:
Folk dances and heritage parades
The “Union Bus,” which distributes gifts to visitors
Al Dhaid will host a large parade and heritage market from November 26 to 30, while coastal city Kalba will present:
Its annual operetta
Parades and water sports competitions
Fireworks displays
Celebrations will also be held in Al Khrous on November 28.
Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah
Smaller emirates are also hosting community-focused festivities:
Ajman: Fireworks and ceremony screenings at Ajman Marina, Al Jurf Family Park, and Al Warqa Public Park
Umm Al Quwain: Celebrations at Creek Waterfront
Fujairah: Fireworks and public gatherings at Umbrella Beach
These events offer a more relaxed atmosphere while still capturing the patriotic spirit of the occasion.
Fireworks Across the Emirates
Fireworks will illuminate the skies at major locations nationwide, including:
Global Village
Sheikh Zayed Festival
Festival Bay
Hatta
Khorfakkan
Kalba
Each location provides family-friendly viewing areas and festive activities.
Watching the Official Eid Al Etihad Ceremony
The official Eid Al Etihad ceremony will be broadcast live nationwide. Residents can watch via:
Public parks and majlis venues across Abu Dhabi, Al Dhafra, Al Ain, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain, and Fujairah
Local television channels
Nationwide cinema screenings
The official Eid Al Etihad website and YouTube channel
This ensures that people across the UAE — even those unable to attend in person — can still take part in the celebrations.
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