The UAE National Day falls on the 2nd December every year and is a special event in the nation’s calendar as it was on this day in 1971 that the seven emirates decided to come together and merge into one nation the world recognizes by the name the “United Arab Emirates.” The UAE National Day is a national pride observed to remember the humble journey that led the country to become a global prominence. Dubai observes many other cultural, traditional, and energetic parades, allowing visitors to enjoy the Emirati spirit.
The Essence of UAE National Day: A Proud Heritage
UAE National Day entails much more than just a holiday. It is observed in honor of country’s founding fathers who laid the foundation for a united and prosperous nation. On this special day, every nook and corner of the city, including the calm, tranquil desert, vibrates with pulsating energy. Thousands of colorful UAE flags take all over the streets and the entire atmosphere in the city exudes a sense of unity, pride, and patriotism among locals, which tourists enjoy a lot.
UAE culture events are designed to honor and remember cultural practices of the Emirati community. From the stately falconry performances to reciting of enchanting poetry narrating the nation’s history, or the pulsating rhythms of Al Ayala Dance, these events are all affiliated to the Bedouin tradition and culture. Each event gives visitors the opportunity to soak in the rich history and heritage of the UAE.
Parades, Fireworks, and National Pride in Dubai
National Day turns Dubai in December into a splendid parade of celebrations all around the city. Grand parades take place at prime locations such as Downtown Dubai, JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residence), and the Sheikh Zayed Road. The parades include elaborately decorated floats, along with brass bands, impressive display by Dubai police, and various cultural performances. These parades make the occasion of UAE National Day a spectacle by showcasing the rich Emirati heritage, progress, and its people.
The celebration also moves into the evening with firework displays that fill the night sky with bright colors. Burj Khalifa, Global Village Dubai, and The Palm Jumeirah hold fantastic shows that make visitors stand in awe. The energy of the city is electrifying and there is palpable feeling of hope for the bright future. People enjoy immersing in the feeling of the unity and pride of the country.
The fireworks are normally followed by light shows, concerts, and traditional dances, allowing visitors to catch a glimpse of the modern and traditional way of life in the UAE. Dubai’s efforts, dedication, and energy to present an unforgettable show make the National Day a festival to remember for years.
Take the Desert Safari Dubai Experience During National Day
Exploring the Arabian desert on Dubai trip is a must for all visitors. A Desert Safari Dubai during National Day is something special. It’s an opportunity to explore the massive golden dunes of the Arabian desert. The desert safari organizes thrilling activities like dune bashing, sand boarding, and camel riding. On UAE National Day, cultural touches are added to the desert safaris, enabling visitors to experience the Emirati traditions.
Many desert safari companies offer special National Day packages to enhance visitors’ experiences. These packages include falconry displays, authentic Emirati cuisine, and traditional dances like the Al Razfa. Visitors get to watch falcons flying in the desert sky, bathe in the desert sunset view. Witnessing these spectacles with a cup of Arabic coffee is the best moment to feel a real connection with the Bedouin’s culture.
The desert safari ends with a BBQ dinner in a Bedouin-styled camp where visitors get to savor a lavish dinner under the stars and enjoy live music and entertainment such as Tanoura dance, belly dancing, and other performances which form a part of the UAE’s diverse cultural tapestry.
Public Holidays in Dubai: A Time to Celebrate
The National Day is a public holiday in Dubai. The entire city is given a fresh look and there are a host of events, activities, and celebrations arranged. Public and private institutions are given a holiday to enable everyone to participate in the celebrations. The holiday also comes at the right time as Dubai in December is normally cooler and perfect for holding any outdoor event.
Apart from the National Day celebrations, Dubai hosts several other cultural and entertaining events during this period. Visitors can explore museums, local markets, music festivals to enjoy the spirit of festivity. All these make December the perfect time to visit Dubai for both short and long trip.
Things to know when participating in the National Day Dubai
If you’re planning to participate in the National Day Dubai, there a few Arabic words you should know before visiting Dubai. Learning daily-used words will help in conversing with the locals and connecting with them. You can understand their culture and regular practices, and tailor your behavior accordingly. While English is widely spoken throughout Dubai, you can earn respect and make locals happy by using Arabic phrases like Marhaba, which means Hello, Shukran, which means Thank you, and Insha’Allah which means God willing.
You may also hear phrases as Мabrouk (Congratulations) and Kul ‘am wa antum bi khayr (Wishing you well) during National Day. Familiarizing yourself with these Arabic phrases will make your visit enjoyable.
Explore A World of Cultural Wonders – Global Village Dubai
Image Credit :Dennis Sylvester Hurd
The best thing about participating in National Day Dubai is the opportunity to visit Global Village Dubai, which is a huge, open multi-cultural amusement park with pavilions for different countries of the world allowing them to display their culture and traditions. With such a wide display of diversity at Global Village, it reinforces UAE’s faith in multi cultures. Visitors get the opportunity to learn about different culture, try foreign cuisine, and shop for souvenirs of different forms of arts and crafts.
Global Village organizes live concerts and other programs during the celebration of the UAE National Day. This gives visitors a good reason to visit this place as it showcases cultural extravaganza in one place. Visitors get to enjoy UAE’s National Day celebrations as well as its multi-cultural identity.
The UAE celebrates their national day with pomp and pompous and with pride in their unity, diverse culture, and progress. The entire country goes on a holiday to partake in vibrant parades, enjoy mesmerizing firework display, and various traditional performances. The celebration goes on for a few day allowing visitors to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and electrifying energy of the city. Whether you’re planning your first trip to Dubai or have visited it before, visiting Dubai during UAE National Day is a good opportunity to immerse in cultural extravaganza and soak in Emirati pride and heritage.
