Eid Al Etihad, also known as UAE National Day, is an annual celebration of the 1971 unification of the United Arab Emirates. You're invited to join the Eid Al Etihad celebrations right here in the capital, Abu Dhabi on 2nd December 2026.
The holiday marks the perfect moment for a getaway close to home. Book a staycation in the city, with beaches, theme parks and culture on your doorstep, then swap the skyline for an overnight escape to the oases of Al Ain or the golden dunes of Al Dhafra.
Eid Al Etihad 2026 marks 55 years since the UAE was formed in 1971. It's a milestone birthday for the nation, so expect the emirate to celebrate in style.
Spend your holiday in the city's Saadiyat Cultural District, a walkable hub of museums and institutions that make up one of the world's most impressive cultural centres.
Discover the story of the nation at Zayed National Museum, see global masterpieces at Louvre Abu Dhabi, then come face to face with dinosaurs at the Natural History Museum. And with Guggenheim Abu Dhabi opening on 11 December, you’ll have an excellent reason to extend your stay.
Just 90 minutes inland, Al Ain celebrates Eid Al Etihad in its own way. Cultural celebrations take place at landmarks like Al Jahili Fort and Al Ain Oasis, where shaded paths wind through thousands of date palms.
The annual Mother of the Nation (MOTN) Festival adds a dose of family entertainment to the mix. Check in for the night, then drive up Jebel Hafit the next morning for views across the desert.
Head two to three hours west, and the city gives way to the vast desert of Al Dhafra. For Eid Al Etihad, Al Dhafra Fort hosts heritage experiences, and the region holds its own edition of the MOTN Festival.
Book a stay at a luxurious desert resort and spend the morning in the Liwa dunes, home to the iconic Tel Moreeb that rises around 300 metres above the sand.
Fun for every day of the long weekend, in the city and beyond.
What is Eid Al Etihad and what does it mean?
Eid Al Etihad is the official name for UAE National Day and translates as "Festival of the Union". It marks 2 December 1971, when six emirates united to form the United Arab Emirates. Ras Al Khaimah joined in February 1972, completing the seven emirates that make up the country today.
What are the best things to do in Abu Dhabi during Eid Al Etihad 2026?
Spend an evening at Sheikh Zayed Festival in Al Wathba to soak up Emirati heritage, or see Andrea Bocelli perform at Etihad Arena on 2 December.
By day, explore the museums of Saadiyat Cultural District or take the family to Yas Island's theme parks. Cooler winter weather also makes it the season to head into the desert or visit Al Ain Oasis.
Are there any Eid Al Etihad hotel and staycation offers in Abu Dhabi?
Hotels across the emirate often run UAE National Day offers, and Eid Al Etihad packages will be added to this page as they're announced. In the meantime, browse the latest staycation deals and hotel offers.
When is the UAE National Day holiday in 2026?
UAE National Day 2026 falls on Wednesday 2 December, and the Eid Al Etihad holidays are expected on Wednesday and Thursday.
With just Friday standing between the holiday and the weekend, it's looking like residents can easily turn the celebrations into a five-day break. The UAE government confirms official holiday dates closer to the time.
What family-friendly Eid Al Etihad activities are happening in Abu Dhabi?
Families can meet sharks at The National Aquarium or have breakfast with giraffes at Al Ain Zoo. For more UAE National Day activities for kids, see our kid's guide to Abu Dhabi.
Can I take a day trip to Abu Dhabi for Eid Al Etihad?
Abu Dhabi is an easy drive from Dubai and the northern emirates, with Yas Island around an hour from Dubai by car. Once you arrive, the free Experience Abu Dhabi shuttle bus links Yas Island, Saadiyat Island and the city centre. Browse our day trip ideas to plan your visit.
