A long weekend is rare in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Now, the UAE National Day Holiday 2025 promises exactly that. However, this occasion is also known as Eid Al Etihad. Moreover, the occasion celebrates the unification of the 7 emirates and marks a proud moment in the history of the country.
The UAE will celebrate its 54th National Day on an official day off on Wednesday, December 3 2025, as per the UAE public holiday law. Moreover, these two days will break up the working week. Hence, it offers residents a much-awaited mid-week break.
UAE National Day Holiday 2025
There is a possibility that the UAE residents could enjoy a longer holiday. However, the UAE public holiday law allows non-Eid holidays to be moved to the beginning or end of the week to provide extended time off. If this applies in 2025, Monday, December 1, could either be added as an extra day or replace December 3.
Why It’s Called Eid Al Etihad?
December 2 has been a symbol of unity and pride for the nation for more than 5 decades. However, residents have noticed a new term in recent years, used officially in celebrations – Eid Al Etihad.
The phrase Eid Al Etihad literally translates to “Celebration of the Union.” According to Eisa Alsubousi, Director of Strategic and Creative Affairs for the Eid Al Etihad Team, this is not a new name, as it is a revival of the authentic Arabic title originally used by the founders of the nation.
Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan,” Alsubousi explained, “Eid Al Etihad – the UAE’s national day — commemorates December 2, 1971, when the seven emirates united under the vision and leadership of the late. It is far more than a holiday. It is a celebration of the unity, shared identity, progress, and collective future of the nation.”
The UAE seeks to align language and national identity by reinstating the original Arabic title. Hence, it reminds citizens and residents of the founding spirit that continues to guide the country today.
How is Eid Al Etihad celebrated?
Every year, the UAE hosts a grand celebration on the 2nd of December. Moreover, he rulers of the seven emirates attend this event. Plus, these festivities embody the values of joy, hospitality, and belonging deeply rooted in Emirati culture.
Alsubousi highlights, “Eid Al Etihad shows the spirit of togetherness that has shaped the UAE since its founding. It highlights the contribution of every person and community, which shows that when we move forward as one, we build a future grounded in shared pride and collective achievement.”
The Eid Al Etihad Team, led by Sheikh Abdulla bin Zayed Al Nahyan as Chairman and Sheikha Mariam bint Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan as Vice Chair, oversees the celebrations. Moreover, their mission is to manage national events and cultural programs that engage residents across all emirates. Hence, it showcases the unity and creativity of the UAE.
A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
The core value of the UAE National Day remains timeless. However, the celebration of the event continues to evolve. Additionally, the nation ensures that every generation can participate through large-scale fireworks, artistic performances, and inclusive creative initiatives.
Inclusivity lies at the heart of the celebration because there are initiatives like the Merchandise Open Call, inviting artists, designers, and local businesses to design products featuring the Eid Al Etihad brand. This broad participation spreads the message of unity nationwide.
A unified visual identity now ties all 7 emirates together under one theme, “United”. Moreover, every colour, logo, and design follows the single system to ensure consistency across digital and physical spaces.
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