This article has been reviewed by Wego’s editorial team to ensure that the content is up to date & accurate.
The spectacular display of fireworks on December 2 is one of the most anticipated attractions of UAE National Day celebrations. However, that’s not all the UAE has in store for its residents.
Keep reading to find out where you can watch performances, participate in fun activities, and admire brilliant displays of fireworks across the emirates.
Book cheap flights to UAE
Al Maryah Island
From 2 December to 3 December, a stunning UAE National Day fireworks display will take place at Al Maryah Island, commemorating the UAE’s 51st birthday with a mix of green, black, white, and red pyrotechnics. Visitors can also walk along Al Maryah’s 5.4km waterfront and dine at elegant cafés, bistros, and restaurants like 99 Sushi, Al Mayass, and Bentley Kitchen.
Al Seef
At Al Seef, on the banks of Dubai’s historic creek, you can immerse yourself in the UAE’s cultural legacy. This Creekside destination is pulling out all the stops with Arabian hospitality, parades, live concerts, kids activities, and, of course, fireworks, echoing the architecture and ambience of the nation’s rich heritage. The fireworks will start at 8 PM.
Bawabat Al Sharq Mall
You can make the 51st UAE National Day one to remember by witnessing the fireworks show at Bawabat Al Sharq Mall. Head there around 9 pm on 2 December to see Abu Dhabi’s skyline lit up in patriotic colours. The place is ideal for friends and families, and you won’t want to miss it.
Bluewaters Dubai
The fireworks that will be showcased at 8 PM will be one of the highlights to catch over Bluewaters Dubai this National Day. Visitors are also expected not to miss out on the island’s entertainment programme, which includes henna station, falconry, and Ayala dances to celebrate the traditions of the UAE’s forefathers.
Dubai Festival City Mall
Dubai Festival City Mall is preparing a ton of activities to commemorate the United Arab Emirates 52nd anniversary. Visitors can expect marching percussion bands, Al Ayala dancers, and a complimentary cup of steaming Emirati coffee. Fayez Al Saeed, an Emirati singer, will play a 60-minute set with the IMAGINE show, which will provide a magnificent backdrop of lasers, lights, and water.
Furthermore, this year’s National Day fireworks display will last a whopping four minutes and 30 seconds. The event will be available from 1 December to 5 December.
Emirates Palace
From 28 November, Emirates Palace will launch celebrations planned for UAE National Day topped with special fireworks. The hotel’s fireworks display will begin at 9 pm on 2 December right on the hotel’s beachfront. There will also be a family-friendly cultural village and themed activities, as well as a date display and falconer at The Grand Dome.
Global Village
Global Village will feature special fireworks for its UAE National Day celebrations. It’s set to be the place for National Day celebration, with plenty of activities scheduled and food trucks for when the visitors are hungry. Pro tip: you will need to enter the park to get the finest views of the fireworks (unless you live nearby). The entry fee is AED 18, and the opening hours will be from 6 PM to 2 AM.
The Walk, JBR
The 1.7km promenade at Jumeirah Beach Residence will host a dramatic fireworks display and live entertainment. For a cultural touch, expect henna, handicrafts, falconry, and live folk bands. Mark your calendar and set your alarm clock on 2 December to see the beautiful fireworks go off at 8 pm.
The Pointe
On UAE National Day, stunning views and fireworks will be on the agenda at The Pointe. Furthermore, visitors can take advantage of the new monorail stop and ride to the destination to witness the Palm Fountain show. There will be no entry fee, so the show will be free for the public.
Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival
This year’s Sheikh Zayed Festival will celebrate Emirati heritage and culture via arts, crafts, food, and rituals. The celebration will also commemorate the UAE’s 51st birthday with UAE National Day fireworks.
Yas Island
Yas Island in Abu Dhabi will offer a range of live entertainment and festivities in honor of UAE National Day. An Ayallah performance will be held at all Yas Island attractions, including Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi, as well as CLYMB Abu Dhabi.
Furthermore, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi will display a large UAE flag for visitors to use as a backdrop for photos, while Yas Waterworld will host an interactive journey to learn more about Emirati culture that will feature falcon handlers, oud players, as well as henna artists. The fireworks at Yas island start at 9 pm.
