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How many days until UAE National Day?

🇦🇪 Wednesday, December 2, 2026

National Days

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122 days until UAE National Day

About UAE National Day

UAE National Day, officially known as Eid Al Etihad (Union Day), is the national holiday of the United Arab Emirates, celebrated every year on December 2. The holiday commemorates the formation of the United Arab Emirates on December 2, 1971, when six emirates united to establish the federation. Ras Al Khaimah joined the federation the following year in 1972. The occasion celebrates national unity, progress, cultural heritage, and the achievements of the UAE. UAE National Day is observed on a fixed date every year: December 2. Unlike holidays based on lunar calendars or changing weekdays, it always falls on the same calendar date regardless of the day of the week. It is one of the country's most important public holidays and is celebrated across all seven emirates. Celebrations include official ceremonies, flag-raising events, fireworks, air shows, parades, concerts, cultural performances, and heritage festivals. Cities such as Abu Dhabi and Dubai host large public celebrations, while homes, businesses, and landmarks are decorated with the colors of the UAE flag. Schools, government institutions, and communities organize educational and cultural activities highlighting the nation's history and achievements. A common misconception is that UAE National Day marks the independence of each emirate separately. In reality, the holiday commemorates the formation of the United Arab Emirates as a unified federation in 1971. Today, it celebrates the country's unity, development, and shared national identity.

Quick facts

  • UAE National Day is celebrated every year on December 2.
  • The United Arab Emirates was founded on December 2, 1971.
  • The UAE consists of seven emirates, with Ras Al Khaimah joining the federation in 1972.

Frequently asked questions

When is UAE National Day?
UAE National Day is celebrated every year on December 2.
Why is UAE National Day celebrated on December 2?
It commemorates the formation of the United Arab Emirates as a federation on December 2, 1971.
How is UAE National Day celebrated?
The holiday is celebrated with fireworks, parades, flag ceremonies, air shows, concerts, cultural festivals, and community events across the UAE.

Upcoming UAE National Day dates

  • Wed, Dec 2, 2026 (next)
  • Thu, Dec 2, 2027
  • Sat, Dec 2, 2028
  • Sun, Dec 2, 2029

Dates on this page are checked against public calendar sources. Spot something wrong? Let us know.