Last Updated on: 16th January 2024, 12:26 am
52nd UAE National Day 2024
The people of the UAE joyously celebrate their 52nd UAE National Day on the 2nd of December each year. In July 1971, six Trucial States—Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Umm al-Quwain, Ajman, and Fujairah—united under a Federal Constitution to gain independence as the United Arab Emirates (الإمارات العربية المتحدة اليوم الوطني).
The UAE officially became independent on December 2, 1971. The 52nd UAE National Day in 2024 is a day of widespread happiness throughout the nation.
Looking ahead, the UAE National Day is poised to transform into an International Day of the Future, according to the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
Independence Day is viewed as a divine blessing, and the desire for freedom resonates universally. The love for one’s homeland is a sentiment that remains etched in the heart, transcending geographical boundaries.
Every country designates a specific date to celebrate its Independence Day, and the UAE’s National Day is no exception.
With the arrival of December, residents in the UAE eagerly anticipate a four-day holiday, courtesy of the UAE National Day 2024 celebrations. Both private and public sector activities will be temporarily suspended, providing UAE residents with a well-deserved extended break.
Is UAE National Day a Public Holiday?
The date for UAE National Day 2024 falls on December 2, immediately following Commemoration Day, observed on the previous day. The government has declared a paid public holiday for UAE residents on Saturday, December 2, and Sunday, December 3, 2024, to mark the National Day. Official activities are scheduled to resume on Monday, December 4, 2024.
UAE National Day 2024 Celebration
As the UAE marks 52 years of independence, celebrations will unfold across the nation. Notably, this year’s National Day aligns with Commemoration Day, creating an extended festive period. Festivities, parties, and fireworks events are anticipated across the Emirates.
The main National Day celebrations will take place at Expo City Dubai, coinciding with the COP28 climate change conference from November 30 to December 12. Emphasizing the theme of 2024 as the Year of Sustainability in the Emirates, this momentous occasion underscores the nation’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
In alignment with the UAE’s dedication to global leadership in climate action and sustainability, the Central Bank of the UAE has introduced a new AED 500 polymer banknote. This release is part of the third issuance of the national currency project, featuring unique designs and advanced security features.
The official ceremony on December 2 will be broadcast live across all local TV channels and the official website, open to the public from December 5 to 12. Tickets for the show can be booked online through the official website or purchased at the main entrance for AED 300 per person. The show commences at 6 PM and spans 30 minutes, with guests requested to be seated by 5:40 PM.
Among the myriad of activities, the breathtaking pyrotechnic displays at Al Maryah Island, Yas Bay Waterfront, and Al Wathba at the Sheikh Zayed Festival are highly anticipated. Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental is also curating a beachside spectacle featuring pyrotechnics and mesmerizing light displays.
UAE National Day 2024 Fireworks & Events
The highlight of UAE National Day 2024 is the spectacular display of fireworks on December 2, complemented by various events across the country. Keep an eye on our dedicated article for regular updates as more information and events are received from official sources.
National Day 2024 Rules
To ensure a safe and enjoyable celebration, the Ministry of Interior has outlined specific rules from December 2 to 4:
- Residents are advised against participating in marches and random gatherings.
- Displaying flags from any nation besides the UAE is prohibited.
- Decoration shop owners are prohibited from installing posters or flags unrelated to Union Day or UAE.
- Wearing scarves not linked to Union Day is not permitted.
- Maintain low noise levels, refrain from chanting, and limit music to tunes relevant to National Day.
- Comply with traffic regulations and adhere to instructions from the police.
- Motorists are prohibited from altering plate numbers, changing the vehicle’s color, or tinting the windshield.
- Drivers are urged not to affix unrelated stickers, signs, or logos onto their vehicles.
- While attending festivities, ensure vehicle occupancy remains within the permitted limit and refrain from engaging in activities that protrude through sunroofs or windows.
- Vehicles should not undergo modifications affecting the exhaust system or compromising visibility and structure.
- Refrain from obstructing traffic flow or closing roads to others.
- Performing stunts on internal or external roads is strictly prohibited.
- Covering the front, sides, or rear of vehicles with unrelated stickers or sunshades is not allowed.
You can also read our article, When is Eid al-Fitr 2024.
With a plethora of exciting activities awaiting residents and families, the challenge lies in choosing which events to prioritize during this annual celebration that unites every sector of Dubai and the entire Emirates.
