The UAE’s 53rd National Day celebrations will run from December 1 to 3. ARCHIVE

The UAE’s 53rd National Day celebrations promise a dazzling array of events across 11 iconic locations in Dubai, from December 1 to 3. Here's your ultimate guide to the festivities: Dubai is set to come alive in celebration of UAE National Day, marking the nation’s 53rd year of unity. Across 11 venues, residents and visitors can immerse themselves in cultural activities, traditional performances, and dazzling fireworks while enjoying the festive spirit of Eid Al Etihad. Here's a detailed guide to what’s happening at each venue, including dates, times, and activities.

Al Seef

Date: December 2–3 Time: 6pm – 10pm Witness live pottery and Sadu weaving demonstrations by Emirati artisans. Enjoy oud and qanun performances (December 2 and 3, respectively). Delight in live Harbia dance shows. Sample aromatic Arabic coffee and dates. Explore Emirati retail concepts and authentic Emirati cuisine at Al Fanar Seafood Restaurant. Fireworks: December 3, 9pm.

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Date: December 2–3 Time: 12pm – 8pm Bedouin Sadu weaving and carpet-weaving displays. Falconry, henna art, and storytelling sessions. Al Ayyala dance performances (2:30pm, 4pm, 6pm, 7pm). Children’s arts and crafts: 12pm – 3pm and 5pm – 8pm. Fishnet-making: 1pm – 5pm. Traditional bagpipe and drum music.

Al Khawaneej Walk

Date: December 1–3 Time: 6pm – 10pm View surrealist portraits by Emirati artist Maisoon Al Saleh at the "Masarat" exhibition. Enjoy live oud music (December 2) and qanun music (December 3). Traditional Al Ayyala dance performances. Emirati-owned restaurants and homegrown cafés offer unique dining experiences.

Bluewaters Dubai

Date: December 2–3 Time: 6pm – 10pm Learn about the UAE’s pearl diving history at the Tawash installation. Fishermen share maritime stories with live music on December 2. Fireworks: December 1, 8pm.

Ibn Battuta Mall

Date: December 1–3 Time: 2pm – 10pm Engage in burqa decorating, bracelet-making, and stick painting activities. Henna art, face painting, and live cultural band performances.

Boxpark

Date: December 2–3 Time: 6:30pm – 9pm Watch live graffiti art sessions by street artist Shakir Sulaiman. Enjoy live guitar performances blending urban culture with local heritage.

Last Exit

Date: December 1–3 Time: 5pm – 10pm Al Ayyala dance performances at Last Exit Al Khawaneej. UAE flag installations at Last Exit Al Qudra for Instagram-worthy moments.

JBR The Walk

Date: December 2–3 Time: 6pm – 10pm Enjoy falconry displays and coffee-and-date tastings. Participate in perfume-making workshops for a personalized fragrance keepsake. Fireworks: December 3, 9pm.

The Outlet Village

Date: December 2–3 Time: 6pm – 9:30pm Al Ayyala dance performances: 6pm, 7:30pm, 8:30pm, and 9:30pm. Special holiday shopping deals.

Serena Marketplace

Date: December 2–3 Time: 4pm – 8pm Children’s arts and crafts workshops inspired by UAE heritage.

Shorooq Community Centre

Date: December 2–3 Time: 4pm – 8pm Al Ayyala dance performances and falconry displays. Sip on Arabic coffee and sample dates while children enjoy traditional art activities. Celebrate UAE National Day with pride From cultural artistry to fireworks, Dubai has something for everyone this National Day. Plan your visit to these venues to experience the UAE’s rich heritage and exciting festivities. ICA/Expat Media
For all the latest news from the UAE and the world, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and subscribe to our YouTube page