Eid Al Etihad : Understanding UAE’s National Day Celebrations
The UAE is gearing up for the next big public holiday, with National Day just around the corner. You might have heard the upcoming celebration referred to as “Eid Al Etihad” – but don’t be mistaken, it’s simply the new name for the UAE National Day celebrations.
This year, the country will enjoy a long, four-day weekend from Saturday, November 30 to Tuesday, December 4, marking the formation of the United Arab Emirates in 1971. The long weekend includes multiple celebrations, which can sometimes be confusing. Here’s a breakdown of the key days and their significance.
What is Eid Al Etihad?
Eid Al Etihad is the official name for the UAE’s National Day celebrations, which are held annually on December 2. The term “Etihad,” meaning “union” in Arabic, captures the essence of the occasion, commemorating the unification of the seven emirates that formed the UAE. The celebrations, attended by the rulers of the emirates, were previously referred to as “Union Day,” but in 2024, the name has been officially changed to Eid Al Etihad. The rebranding reflects a stronger connection to the nation’s identity, heritage, unity, and pride.
What is Union Day?
Union Day, previously the official term for the December 2 celebration, marked the unification of the six original emirates into the UAE in 1971. Ras Al Khaimah later joined in February 1972, but the anniversary on December 2 has been the focal point for national celebrations. The government’s website explaining the event has also shifted from unionday.ae to eidaletihad.ae, signifying the change in name.
What is UAE National Day?
UAE National Day refers to December 2 itself, the day that marks the founding of the UAE in 1971. The country celebrates this milestone every year with public festivities, parades, and national pride. This year, National Day falls on Monday, December 2, and the official public holiday will extend through Tuesday, December 3, providing a two-day break for residents.
What is UAE Commemoration Day?
Observed on November 30 every year, UAE Commemoration Day (also known as Martyrs’ Day) honors the sacrifices made by the UAE’s fallen heroes. Though it is often observed alongside National Day celebrations, it is not an official public holiday. The day is marked by a minute of silence at 11 a.m. and the hoisting of the UAE flag at half-mast in remembrance.
Will We Have the Day Off?
Yes, this year the UAE National Day celebrations, now also called Eid Al Etihad, will provide a four-day holiday from Saturday, November 30 to Tuesday, December 4. This includes the two public holidays for National Day on December 2 and 3, and the observance of Commemoration Day on November 30.
