United Arab Emirates National Day 2026
More National days
National days topic
Return to the National days index for related events.
About the event
The story behind the union On 2 December 1971, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah joined together to form the United Arab Emirates; Ras Al Khaimah joined shortly after in 1972.
Dubai site associated with the signing of the 1971 union agreement
Why this day
On 2 December 1971, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah joined together to form the United Arab Emirates; Ras Al Khaimah joined shortly after in 1972. The date marks the beginning of the modern federal state.
National Day became the country's central civic celebration, linking the union agreement with the rapid growth of the emirates. Official ceremonies, school events and city decorations usually build for several days around the date.
Today the day is visible in flags on towers, car parades, fireworks, concerts and family gatherings. Abu Dhabi and Dubai stage major public shows, while each emirate adds its own local programme.
Timeline
- 1971Seven emirates formed a federation
- 1971First National Day
- 2021Golden Jubilee marked
Key figures
Stay for the event
Check-in 1 Dec, check-out 3 Dec 2026 — 2 nights around 2 December 2026. Change the dates to stay longer.
AREA
Find stays in Abu DhabiGetting there
- Celebratednationwide
- CapitalAbu Dhabi
- Time zoneGST (UTC+4)
Host country
- Currency: United Arab Emirates dirham
- Language: Arabic
- Driving: on the right
- Capital: Abu Dhabi
- Phone: +971
- Emergency: 999
- Electricity: 220–240 V, 50 Hz, plugs G
What to eat
Spiced rice with meat or fish, often served at family gatherings
Slow-cooked wheat and meat, especially common at celebrations
Sweet fried dumplings with date syrup or honey
Sweet vermicelli with saffron and egg
Flatbread soaked with meat and vegetable stew
A coastal favourite at public and family meals
What to drink
Lightly roasted gahwa with cardamom, usually served with dates
Strong sweet tea with milk and spices
Cooling yoghurt drink served with rich food
Culture & traditions
Dubai site associated with the signing of the 1971 union agreement
A heritage symbol often shown in cultural villages and displays
Maritime traditions connect the holiday to life before oil
Modern city skylines become part of the national-day spectacle
Coming years
United Arab Emirates National Day 2027
- Thursday 2 December 2027Next event date
United Arab Emirates National Day 2028
- Saturday 2 December 2028Event date
United Arab Emirates National Day 2029
- Sunday 2 December 2029Event date