National Day (Eid Al Etihad)
At a glance
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Date | 2 December every year |
| Public holiday | 2 and 3 December, public and private sectors |
| Official theme | Spirit of the Union |
| Marks | The Union of the emirates, 2 December 1971 |
Source: UAE Government Portal: Public holidays; Ministry of Health and Prevention: Eid Al Etihad1,2
What it marks
National Day marks the formal start of the federal union of the emirates on 2 December 1971. Six emirates formed the UAE that day, and Ras Al Khaimah joined on 10 February 1972. The Arabic name, Eid Al Etihad, means "celebration of the Union".1,2
Spirit of the Union
"Spirit of the Union" is the official theme of the celebrations, taken from the vision of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Founder President. Its logo shows the silhouette of the image of the Founding Fathers' first gathering on 2 December 1971.1
How it is celebrated
The day is marked across the country with official ceremonies, cultural performances and heritage displays. Schools hold events and initiatives on the theme of the Union.2,3
Offices, government services and many businesses close on both days. Plan meetings and filings around them.1
Sources
- UAE Government Portal: Public holidays
- Ministry of Health and Prevention: Eid Al Etihad
- Ministry of Education: Eid Al Etihad
Facts checked 22 October 2026. Prepared by Invest-Emirates.ae for general information.