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What is Eid Al Etihad? Everything You Need To Know About The Long Weekend Holiday

From public and private sector dates to how to celebrate, we break it all down here

The 53rd Eid Al Etihad celebrations will take place during the first weekend of December. Formerly known as National Day and Union Day, the holiday aims to bring people together to celebrate the rich history and culture of the Emirates.

Image credit: @unionday.ae

In addition to parades, events, and school involvement, this year’s Eid Al Etihad celebrations will focus on themes of sustainability, innovation and togetherness of leaders, nationals and residents who makes the Emirates the formidable nation it’s become.

Eid al Etihad
Image credit: @unionday.ae

What does Eid Al Etihad mean?

Eid Al Etihad translates to “Festival of Union,” highlighting the spirit of coming together to celebrate the great nation we all call home. This year nationals and residents are encouraged to celebrate the holiday in a sustainable way, reusing materials and items during any festive events or celebrations.

When is Eid Al Etihad?

Eid Al Etihad, formerly known as UAE National Day, will take place on Monday, December 2nd. It’s been confirmed that public sector workers will have a four day long weekend with the Monday and Tuesday, December 3rd off. They will return to work on Wednesday, December 4th.

What Are The Private Sector Holiday Dates for Eid Al Etihad?

Though the dates for the official private sector have yet to be announced, the UAE Cabinet has previously approved that private sector holiday dates would align with the public sector holidays. Check back soon for more details.

Eid al Etihad

Wondering how to celebrate Eid Al Etihad?

So whether you’re planning a staycation within the country, a list of things to do like the best restaurants, or even a short getaway to a nearby country, there are endless ways to celebrate Eid Al Etihad.

Eid al Etihad

Image credits: Editor in Chief: Olivia Phillips. Creative Director: Marne Schwartz. Photographer: Arash Khaksari. Stylist: Anna Castan. Hair: Anne Sofie Begtrup at Wise and Talented. Make-Up: Ossiel Ramos Abarca at Walter Schupfer. Market Editor: Nour Bou Ezz. Executive Producer: Jesse Vora. Studio Manager: Ines Guendouz. Set designer: Karolina Volbin. Stylist’s Assistant: Kristina Babkina. Photographer’s Assistants: Martin Wilhelm and Faycal Bouhassoun

Images from Harper’s Bazaar Arabia’s December 2021 issue.

Laura Kell

With over 10 years of experience creating content for a multitude of digital platforms, Laura Kell joined Harper’s Bazaar Arabia as Digital Editor in March 2020, before being promoted to the role of...

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