Dates
National Day is fixed on 2 December, the anniversary of the union of the emirates in 1971, and the public holiday covers 2 and 3 December. In 2026 those are a Wednesday and a Thursday, so the holiday sits in the middle of the week and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix begins the next day. The 2026 celebration is the 55th, under the theme “Spirit of the Union”.
What usually happens
The 2026 city-by-city programme had not been announced when this page was last checked. Past years give the pattern: fireworks and drone shows at major landmarks and festivals, flag displays on buildings and cars, heritage performances, concerts, and special programmes at venues such as Global Village (nightly fireworks on the holiday) and Sheikh Zayed Festival (Union Day celebrations and a parade last season).
Roads around the busiest sites are slow, and some are closed for viewing areas. Public transport and an early start help more than a car.
Planning around it
Book hotels early: the holiday leads straight into Grand Prix week. If you work in the UAE, check your employer's holiday notice for any adjustment to the days off. If you are planning an office or school celebration, our guide to National Day setups that are not just flags has ideas.
Questions people ask
When is UAE National Day 2026?+
Wednesday 2 and Thursday 3 December 2026. It is the 55th anniversary of the union, under the theme “Spirit of the Union”.
Where are the National Day fireworks?+
Locations for 2026 had not been announced when this page was checked. In past years fireworks have been held at the Corniche in Abu Dhabi, at Global Village and other landmarks in Dubai, and at Sheikh Zayed Festival.
Is National Day a public holiday?+
Yes. The UAE government fixes the public holiday on 2 and 3 December each year.
