Where to eat and what to do throughout the holiday.
How to spend National Day in the UAE
Get set to celebrate! It’s UAE National Day on 2nd of December. In honour of the union of the seven emirates, the annual event is one where both residents and visitors can experience an authentic of the region’s history and culture.
We’ve come up with a few fun ideas on how to make the most of the upcoming public holiday.
Top ideas on what to do in Dubai for National Day
One of the leading attractions in Dubai, Mall of the Emirates will be transformed with a glittering array of UAE-themed décor – think flags, falcons and Arabian horses – along with an exciting schedule of live entertainment and special performances to celebrate national pride.
Held in the Central Galleria of the mall and running from late November until 3rd of December, the Bedouin Wonders & Pearl Passion Show will showcase the Bedouin tribe’s roots and the rich pearl fishing history of the Emirates.
There will also be a pop-up souk-inspired tent where you can experience traditional activities, such as intricate henna art and Arabian calligraphy. And don’t miss the incredible opportunity to have your photo taken with the UAE’s national symbol – a beautiful falcon.
Experience the beautiful art of henna this National Day
If you’re heading to City Centre Mirdif, stop by the mall’s special station devoted to celebrating National Day. From gold henna to face painting for little ones and an origami station where you can create your personalised decoration, there are fun-filled activities for all.
Visitors can also type out their message to the UAE to be broadcasted on a screen in real time. All this, plus shoppers will instantly win two tickets to VOX Cinemas when they spend over AED500 in the mall.
Over at City Centre Deira, expect elaborate décor and live traditional dance shows!
At City Centre malls located across the UAE, shoppers will be delighted by the roaming parades. Tap your feet to the beat of traditional national songs as the dancers gift UAE flags to shoppers as a keepsake from this special event.
A Taste of Arabia
Sample Middle Eastern cuisine at some of the best Arabic restaurants in the UAE
Mouth-watering grilled meats, fresh falafel, cheese-topped manakeesh and hummus by the bucket-load – we never need an excuse to feast on our favourite Middle Eastern food. The public holiday is the perfect time to stop by one of the many Arabic restaurants across the UAE, such as Mado, Al Halabi, Hatam and Abd El Wahab.
What Is National Day?
In a nutshell, the annual event commemorates the historic occasion in 1971 when all seven sheikhdoms, formerly known as the Trucial States, came together to form one country, the United Arab Emirates. Along with celebrating the unification, both the UAE flag and the country’s first President, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who led the important movement, are honoured at this time.