Dubai: The UAE is gearing up to celebrate its 54th National Day in proper style, and Abu Dhabi is pulling out all the stops. From spectacular firework displays to traditional performances and family-friendly activities, here’s your guide to celebrating Eid Al Etihad and making the most of the long weekend across the emirate.
1. Fireworks at Yas Island
Two nights of firework displays will light up the Yas Island waterfront at 9pm on December 2 and 3. Celebrations start at 3pm both days with cultural performances, falconry activities and the Flag Garden featuring 54 flags. You can try Emirati handicrafts, get henna art, enjoy calligraphy and explore immersive installations. Local restaurants will serve traditional bites to artisanal bakes, plus there’s a classic cars exhibition. Entry is free but registration is encouraged on the Yas Bay website.
Where: Yas Island Waterfront.
When: 9pm on December 2nd and 3rd.
2. Fireworks at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
A fireworks display lights up the skies on December 2nd from 9.15pm, part of celebrations running from November 29th to December 3rd with children’s activities and art workshops. The hotel facade will showcase special illuminations each evening from November 30th to December 4th. More details on the hotel’s website.
Where: Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental.
When: Fireworks display on December 2nd from 9.15pm and celebrations from November 29th to December 3rd.
4. Mother of the Nation Family Festival
This festival is moving across three different locations in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Dhafra. Promising ‘adventure, fun and out of this world experiences’, catch this year’s set-up in Al Dhafra and Al Ain from Monday November 24th until Tuesday December 2nd. The action then moves to Abu Dhabi Corniche from Wednesday December 2nd until Sunday January 4th 2026. Packed with museums, shows and more food trucks than you can count, previous editions sent the year off in style with a massive New Year’s Eve party open to the whole family. From Dh25.
Where: MOTN family festival in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Dhafra.
When: Al Dhafra and Al Ain from Monday November 24th until Tuesday December 2nd.
5. Al Mugheirah Bay in Al Dhafra
This western Abu Dhabi location, also part of the MOTN festival will be hosting celebrations from November 28th to December 2nd with fireworks (timings to be announced) on the final night. Tickets cost Dh25.
Where: Al Mugheirah Bay in Al Dhafra.
When: November 28th to December 2nd.
8. Natural History Museum
Natural history has found a stunning new home in Abu Dhabi. Opening in Saadiyat Cultural District in 2025, it takes visitors through 13.8 billion years of Earth’s history. Highlights include the world-famous ‘Stan’ T-rex skeleton and Murchison Meteorite.