Be part of epic UAE National Day celebrations in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi residents can look forward to entertainment and fun as the UAE celebrates its 53rd National Day, also known as Eid Al Etihad. Here’s our guide to all the festivities and National Day activities in Abu Dhabi for 2024.
UAE NATIONAL DAY FIREWORKS IN ABU DHABI
Abu Dhabi comes alive during the United Arab Emirates National Day. The capital becomes a celebration hub where traditional heritage blends with modern festivities. Spectacular firework displays light up the sky while cultural experiences bring people together.
The Eid Al Etihad firework displays are one of the most anticipated National Day activities in Abu Dhabi. This year, as part of the celebrations in the capital, the fireworks will be seen in the following locations:
- Yas Marina Circuit – 2nd December 2024
- Corniche – 2nd December 2024, 09:00 pm
- Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental – 2nd December 2024, 09:00 pm
- Yas Bay Waterfront – 2nd December 2024, 09:00 pm onwards
- Sheikh Zayed Festival – 2nd December 2024
- Al Maryah Island – 2nd and 3rd December 2024, 09:00 pm
Attending UAE National Day fireworks in Abu Dhabi at Yas Marina Circuit requires pre-registration.
Live performances at Al Ain’s historic sites
Al Ain takes the spotlight during this year’s National Day activities in Abu Dhabi with the official ceremony at Bait Mohammed Bin Khalifa. Visitors can enjoy traditional performances at this UNESCO World Heritage site on 2nd and 3rd December 2024, between 04:00 and 07:00 pm.
The organisers have made sustainability a priority at all venues. You can explore ancient Aflaj irrigation systems or join traditional craft workshops.
Do you want to join the official National Day celebration in Abu Dhabi? Here are the complete details about the 53rd Official National Day Celebrations in Al Ain.
NATIONAL DAY ACTIVITIES IN ABU DHABI 2024
2024 has an exciting lineup of National Day activities in Abu Dhabi. Residents and visitors can look forward to some amazing National Day programs in Abu Dhabi that will make this year’s celebrations memorable.
The UAE National Day celebration in Abu Dhabi features everything from traditional performances at heritage venues to entertainment zones for families. Cultural workshops and food festivals add to the festive atmosphere of activities in Abu Dhabi for National Day.
Enjoy Traditional craft demonstrations at Al Dhafra Fort
The three-day National Day activities in Abu Dhabi hosted at Al Dhafra Fort will feature captivating Ayyala dance performances, traditional craft demonstrations, henna art sessions and school plays.
- Date and timings: 2nd to 4th December 2024, 11:00 am to 06:00 pm
- Location: Al Dhafrah Fort
ATTEND SHEIKH ZAYED FESTIVAL
One of the best Abu Dhabi events for National Day is the Sheikh Zayed Festival. The Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival in Al Wathba showcases a mixture of UAE’s rich culture. This year’s theme, “Hayakum,” invites you to discover over 6,000 cultural events from 27 countries. The festival carries forward H.H. Sheikh Zayed’s dream to preserve Emirati heritage and displays traditional craftsmanship through hands-on demonstrations.
It is one of the biggest annual Abu Dhabi events in 2024 and will include a variety of acts and festivities on UAE National Day. A large fireworks display and traditional Emirati art shows and performances will commemorate the occasion. The National Day celebrations will happen on December 2 and 3, from 04:00 pm to 01:00 am.
- Ticket price: AED 10 per person
- Location: Al Wathba
Children under the age of three and visitors above the age of 65 are admitted free of charge. People of Determination also get free access.
Mother of the Nation (MOTN) Festival
Looking for things to do in Abu Dhabi for National Day weekend with family? Organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), the Mother of the Nation (MOTN) Festival will return to the emirate for the eighth edition on 28 November.
MOTN will be held at its vibrant new location in Al Mugheirah Bay, Al Dhafra and Al Ain from November 28 to December 2! There’s an incredible lineup of activities, including engaging science workshops, thrilling carnival rides and an enticing global food hall.
Don’t miss out on the outdoor cinema and unique retail spaces, where there’s always something exciting to explore. With themed zones—Amuse, Thrill, Indulge, and Entertain—there’s a delightful mix of music, food, and cultural experiences waiting for everyone to enjoy!
- Date and timings: 28th November to 2nd December 2024, 04:00 pm to 10:00 pm
- Location: Al Dhafra Al Mugheirah Bay and Al Ain Square
- Tickets: Starting from AED 25
- Contact: +971-2-444-0444
Celebrate Eid Al Etihad 2024 at Yas Marina Circuit: A Thrilling Family Adventure!
Are you ready for an unforgettable Eid Al Etihad celebration that will get your heart racing? Look no further than Yas Marina Circuit’s action-packed holiday extravaganza that’s perfect for the whole family!
Mark your UAE public holidays calendars, folks! On 2nd December, Yas Marina Circuit transforms into a playground of excitement and adventure.
What’s in Store for You?
- Eid Al Etihad Car Parade: Witness an impressive display of vehicles adorned in the colours of the UAE, forming the nation’s flag at the iconic F1 season finale venue.
- Enjoy the adrenaline rush with a Freestyle Motocross Showdown.
- Karting: Don’t miss the Karting Competition, where racers of all ages compete in the Adults, Kids, and Bambino categories to win exciting prizes.
- Kids’ Zone: Little ones can enjoy face painting, bouncy castles and more!
- Entertainment: Delight in performances by Emirati singers and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the UAE with traditional Oud music and dances such as Ayalla, Liwa & Shilla.
- Interactive Experiences: Participate in activities such as camel interactions, cultural board games, calligraphy writing and arts and crafts. Don’t miss the opportunity to interact with falcons through the Falcon Experience.
- A magnificent fireworks display will illuminate the night sky to top off the festivities.
Don’t let this high-octane Eid Al Etihad celebration pass you by! Register your spot in the fast lane to fun by visiting the official Yas Marina Circuit website now.
- Date: Monday, 2nd December 2024
- Venue: North Oasis, Yas Marina Circuit
- Timings: 04:00 pm to 06:00 pm
- Attendees aged 16 and above are required to register before attending
GO KAYAKING IN ABU DHABI’S MANGROVES
Kayaking is one of the perfect activities in Abu Dhabi for National Day 2024. There are excellent places for Kayaking in Abu Dhabi, including kayaking in the Eastern Mangroves. With prices starting from as low as AED 130 for tours, we recommend you book your spot for the National Day weekend right now!
BOOK YOURSELF A STAYCATION
Looking for some amazing UAE National Day offers in Abu Dhabi? Many of the city’s top resorts and hotels have fantastic staycation deals in Abu Dhabi for National Day 2024 for residents during the long weekend.
VISIT THE JUBAIL MANGROVE PARK
Jubail Mangrove Park has become a favourite with residents and visitors. Located in Jubail Island, the park consists of Mangrove Walk Abu Dhabi and the Qurum Walkway. It allows visitors to explore this natural wonder on foot.
- Location: Jubail Island
- Timings: 07:00 am to 09:00 pm (Last entry at 08:00 pm)
- Contact: +971-2-448-0011 | +971-56-260-7636
HAVE FUN WITH FAMILY AT AL QANA
Regarding UAE National Day activities in Abu Dhabi, Al Qana has a fun-packed schedule of exciting traditional activities, delicious food and unforgettable performances for every family member!
THEMED NATIONAL DAY ACTIVITIES AT KHALIDIYA PALACE RAYHAAN BY ROTANA
Looking for more things to do in Abu Dhabi for National Day? Have non-stop fun at the 53rd Eid Al Etihad Celebration at Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana in Abu Dhabi.
Various activities await you in the hotel lobby from 11:00 am to 02:30 pm.
- Henna Tattoo artists
- Ayala Show Dance: From 11:30 am to 01:00 pm
- UAE National Anthem at 12:00 pm along with Yula Band Performance
- Cake-Cutting Ceremony at 12:00 pm
- Arabic Coffee and dates and live Luqaimat station
- Kids’ activities, including arts and crafts and face painting
You can also enjoy a special 53rd Eid Al Etihad themed lunch at Horizon from 01:00 pm to 04:00 pm.
- Date and timings: 2nd December 2024, 11:00 am to 02:30 pm
- Location: Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana, Corniche Road, Al Khubeirah
- Contact: +971-2-657-0000
NATIONAL DAY FOOD SPECIAL
If you’re looking for brunches, buffets or National Day discounts on food, here are some places you can explore to celebrate the day.
NATIONAL DAY THEMED LUNCH AT KHALIDIYA PALACE RAYHAAN BY ROTANA
Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana in Abu Dhabi will host a themed lunch at the on-site Horizon Restaurant on the 53rd National Day. The International buffet features delightful Ouzi besides traditional delicacies and Arabic coffee.
- Cost: AED 159 per adult | AED 80 per child (standard buffet)
- Date and timings: 2nd December 2024, 01:00 pm to 04:00 pm
- Location: Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana
- Contact: +971-2-657-0000
NATIONAL DAY THEMED BREAKFAST AT KHALIDIYA PALACE RAYHAAN BY ROTANA
Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana has organised a themed National Day lazy breakfast, which you can choose to be served anywhere between 07:00 am to 09:00 pm.
This offer applies from Friday, 29th November, until Tuesday, 3rd December.
Eid Al Etihad Dinner Buffet at Sahha
Sahha will host an impressive Eid Al Etihad dinner with traditional Lamb Ouzi, succulent Lamb Kofta, Chicken Shish Tawook and flavourful Chermoula Lamb Chops.
- Cost: AED 240 per person
- Date and timings: 2nd December 2024, 06:30 pm to 10:30 pm
- Location: Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences Emirates Pearl, Corniche Street, Al Bateen
- Contact: +971-2-510-1234
National Day Dinner at Punjab Grill
Punjab Grill in The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi will serve a special Emirati-inspired menu for dinner this National Day. The set menu will feature Crumbled Cheese & Harvest Salad and Chicken & Lentil Soup as starters. The main course will include Butter Chicken and Chicken Dum Biryani, followed by Khabees and Dates and Camel Milk Brulée as dessert.
- Cost: AED 275 per person
- Date and timings: 30th November to 4th December
- Location: Punjab Grill, The Ritz-Carlton, Abu Dhabi
- Contact: +971-50-668-3054
FAQS ABOUT THINGS TO DO IN ABU DHABI FOR NATIONAL DAY WEEKEND
WHAT IS THE DATE OF THE 53RD UAE NATIONAL DAY 2024?
The UAE’s 53rd National Day will be celebrated on Monday, 2nd December.
WHERE CAN I GO FOR ROAD TRIP ON THE UAE NATIONAL DAY?
The country is full of picturesque scenery and there are plenty of road trip destinations in UAE for National Day, including Snoopy Island in Fujairah, Jebel Jais Mountains in RAK and Khor Fakkan.
WHICH HERITAGE SITES CAN I VISIT DURING THE NATIONAL DAY WEEKEND 2024?
You can head to Qasr Al Hosn, Qasr Al Muwaiji or Al Jahili Fort to learn more about the region’s history.
That concludes our guide to the best things to do for UAE National Day in Abu Dhabi!
Abu Dhabi’s 2024 National Day celebrations show how the emirate can preserve its traditions while creating modern festivities. You’ll find something special at each location. Heritage sites take people back in time with traditional shows and hands-on workshops. Entertainment zones create memories families will cherish forever. Photography lovers can capture amazing moments, especially when the drones light up the sky, and flags wave in the breeze.
If you plan to travel outside the UAE capital, you can look at Dubai events for UAE National Day 2024.
Other emirates also have some amazing staycation offers for the long weekend! Discover the top National Day staycations in Dubai and hotel offers for National Day in RAK.
