UAE National Day Long Weekend: 10 Things To Do
The country will come together to celebrate 51 years of unity on December 2
The UAE National Day is a time for all to rejoice. A celebration of the historic moments on the day the seven emirates unified under one name and one identity for a better future, December 2 is one of the most important days in the country’s calendar.
Citizens and expatriates alike welcome the special day with joy and eagerness to honour the land they call home and pay tributes to not only its glorious culture of hospitality, togetherness, and warmth but also its light-speed progress and its position on the world map today.
The National Day long weekend is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the nationwide festivities and really get into the spirit of oneness. This year, marking 51 years since unification, the period of holidays will start on December 1, which is celebrated as Commemoration Day, followed by December 2 and 3 for National Day, through to December 4, which is the usual Sunday.
With four days off, this is the perfect time to spend time with family and friends and plan fun trips or activities to do. Bazaar Arabia is sharing a list of 10 things you can do to make the most of the UAE National Day Long Weekend.
10 Ways To Spend The UAE National Day Long Weekend
Witness Mesmerising Fireworks
No celebration is complete without some light and colour, which is why fireworks are a must. The UAE National Day Long Weekend fireworks take place at a number of different locations including Dubai Festival City, JBR, La Mer, Al Seef, and a stunning light display at the Burj Khalifa. For residents of the capital city, Zayed Heritage Festival, Madinat Zayed, the Abu Dhabi Corniche and the Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium are the places to be.
Do A Staycation
We’re spoilt for choice here in the UAE. From Sir Bani Yas Island in Abu Dhabi to the beaches of Fujairah, the opportunities to unwind pool or beachside are endless across the emirates as the temperatures drop. See Bazaar Arabia‘s complete list of the best staycations in the UAE here for travel inspiration that’s a little bit closer to home.
Go Kayaking in The Abu Dhabi Mangroves
A morning spent paddling through aquatic brush is pure tranquil bliss. Possibly one of the most underrated activities to do in Abu Dhabi, kayaking in the Jubail Mangroves gives adventurists a closer look at the magic of mother nature and the true beauty of the emirate. Not interested in picking up a paddle? Consider taking a stroll down the boardwalks and see if you can spot a turtle or heron relaxing amongst the reeds in the water, one of the best ways to restore your body and soul this winter.
Explore Expo City
Expo 2020 was an event that created history, welcoming the world on a massive scale to the endless possibilities of the future and showing up in true UAE style with breath-taking infrastructure, avenues for innovation and exciting entertainment. Now, the site has been converted into Expo City and will continue to carry forth that ethos. There’s never a dull day here, with loads happening with something for everyone.
For more information, visit expocitydubai.com
Watch The Abu Dhabi Air Show
The Abu Dhabi Air Show is a spectacular display of fighter jets and colour that is a yearly tradition. Like always, this year the Air Show will take place on the Abu Dhabi corniche on December 2, 2022 between 16:00 and 17:00. The show will feature new fighter planes like the Mirage 2000 and F-16 jets.
Pay A Visit To Louvre Abu Dhabi
Having opened its doors in November of 2017, Louvre Abu Dhabi (designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel) is best known as one of the region’s first universal museums. An ideal spot to take in creative inspiration, the museum boasts a vast collection of unique artifacts and artworks from throughout time — a true cultural inspiration, indeed. Consider taking in the beauty of Jackson Pollock’s abstract paintings or bring the little ones to the children’s museum.
For more information on Louvre Abu Dhabi, click here.
Go On An Adventure At Global Village
Global Village has officially opened its doors — which means winter is here! As always, the largest global exhibition in the region is back with fun performances, activities, and a piece of culture from every corner of the globe.
For more information, visit globalvillage.ae
Take Your Pick At Time Out Market In Souk Al Bahar
If you’re looking to sample some delicious food and are all about that variety, Time Out Market in Souk Al Bahar is the place for you. Think a high-end food court of sorts, with joints like Pitfire Pizza, Pickl, Mattar, and many more so you’re sure to be spoiled for choice. The ambiance of the space is unmatched, with dim, tasteful lighting and urban-chic seating for that complete experience.
For more information, visit timeoutmarket.com
Enjoy The Season At The Winter Garden In Habtoor Palace
This open-air food market is the perfect place to really appreciate the fast-approaching winter season. Featuring loads of food trucks and stalls serving delicious dishes, the market is as picturesque as it gets with wooden benches and fairy lights. Very Instagrammable, might we add. Winter Garden also has a number of stalls selling knick-knacks like accessories and trinkets.
For more information, visit alhabtoorcity.com
Visit Last Exit
This themed food-truck concept is located at several locations around the country and is a funky, fun place to go to if you fancy a long drive and a bite to eat. The Last Exit locations are bright, colourful, and not at all hard to miss.
(Looking for more things to do specifically in Abu Dhabi this winter? Click here.)
Image courtesy of Unsplash/David Rodrigo