Best Places In Dubai to Visit During UAE National Day Holidays

The UAE National Day Holidays are approaching, marking the unification of seven emirates to form one nation in 1971. As the nation prepares to celebrate its 53rd birthday, celebrations take place all over Dubai to mark this historic event.

From top-quality shows and stunning fireworks shows to festivals of culture and thrilling activities, the city offers a wealth of amazing experiences. To get the most out of the four-day public holiday weekend, we've put together a comprehensive guide to the top destinations in Dubai to explore to enjoy this year's UAE National Day celebrations.

Downtown Dubai

The lively Downtown Dubai neighborhood completely transforms into a riot of color, with festive decorations adorning the finest luxury homes. Right in the middle is the world-renowned Burj Khalifa, the focal point for the city's biggest National Day festivities.

You must make sure you pass by The Dubai Mall to see it decorated wall-to-wall, with energetic dance and music shows featuring people dressed in traditional attire. The nearby Souk Al Bahar will host an exclusive bazaar where you can buy souvenirs while enjoying Emirati food and Arabic sweets.

Top Things To Do

• See The Stunning Display of Fireworks And Led Lights At Burj Khalifa

Each year, due to its status as a luxurious property in Dubai, Burj Khalifa presents a spectacular display of vibrant lights and beams that match the UAE national song, flag colors, and other songs from the cultural repertoire. Dubai Fountain dance shows Dubai Fountain dance performances also occur in sync, making it a must-see spectacle.

The shows generally run between 8 and 9 PM on December 2nd. Be sure to arrive early to get the best views. Some of the venues, such as The Dubai Mall terraces and Souk Al Bahar, will feature tables to eat at with straight viewings, too.

• See Dubai Frame lit up

The stunning Dubai Frame structure is another famous city landmark lit up with lights to celebrate National Day. You can visit during the evening between December 1st and 3rd when its golden façade sparkles with thousands of light bulbs.

Go towards The Sky Deck viewpoint on the upper floor for some Instagram-worthy photos with the lights shining against the Dubai skyline at night.

• Browse Through The Food And Retail Markets

With many holiday-goers to enjoy the long weekend, downtown locations are filled with pop-up shops and food stalls amid all the festivities. From souvenir shops and handicrafts to food trucks serving Emirati snacks and more, a stroll through them is a delightful cultural experience.

Souk Al Bahar and Zabeel Park are two of the most popular places to host this year's UAE National Day Market, which will be held from 4 pm to midnight between December 1st and December 3rd. There will be henna artists to look out for, Arabic calligraphy displays, Karak tea kiosks, and much more.

Global Village

As the largest cultural event in Dubai, Global Village completely embraces the National Day vibes with decorations and exciting celebrations throughout its more than 100 pavilions. You can expect entertainment on the stage live music, traditional dances, fireworks and a plethora of cultural events during your stay.

Top Things To Do

• Enjoy Your Tickets To The Uae National Day Concerts

Specially curated National Day concerts will be held each evening on the main stage and cultural venues. Between December 1st and 3rd, top Emirati performers such as Hussain Al Jassmi, Eida Al Menhali, and Mohammed Al Shehhi will perform.

People can sing and dance to patriotic tunes while the band plays old-fashioned tunes with a sense of harmony. Tickets usually sell out quickly, and you must reserve your seats early to guarantee admission.

• Take A Look At The Stunning Fireworks Display

As one of the top locations in Dubai to watch the fireworks show, Global Village puts up huge pyrotechnic displays every National Day evening between the 1st and 3rd of December, at 9, 10, and 10:30 pm.

Go to the central Carnival funfair zone 10 minutes earlier to secure the best viewing spots. The open spaces offer a direct view of the stage. You can see the vibrant lights glimmering across the Global Village backdrop for an Instagrammable video!

• Enjoy National Day Specials

From gift vouchers for decorations and hampers to wallet top-ups and discounts on retail purchases, look for National Day special deals at kiosks and stores across Global Village. You can also experience traditional Emirati dances like Liwa and Harbiye.

In the World Market area, you can browse for souvenirs, while food carts serve Emirati snacks such as ballet (sweet vermicelli) and madrouba (sweet coconut fingers).

The Pointe at Palm Jumeirah

This stylish dining and shopping strip in Palm Jumeirah, the best residential area in Dubai, is set to host thrilling National Day events across all places. Enjoy the picturesque waterfront promenade and watch fireworks synchronize with Burj Al Arab's show.

Top Things To Do

• Enjoy A Meal Under The Stars

Restaurant terraces outside, such as Asia Asia and Mama Pho, are awe-inspiring and overlook Dubai's glamorous coastline, which includes Atlantis Hotel and Burj Al Arab. Reservations are recommended for tables at one of them during National Day evenings to catch the festivities with the best views! You can buy properties in downtown dubai to make an investment.

The endless plates and glittering fireworks scenes make every moment picture perfect. When you return, your camera will be filled with social media-worthy photos.

• Be Amazed By The Fireworks Show

The Pointe has spectacular fireworks that begin at 9 p.m. during National Day evenings. Find a comfy spot on the benches along the waterfront promenade, or stroll through the courtyard next to Prive restaurant to enjoy stunning views of Burj Al Arab.

In addition to the elaborate shows across both ends, fireworks are everywhere in The Pointe area, which delights those who want to maximize their enjoyment.

Get yourself the newest fashions in the fashion world at Courtyard Avenue, home to top brands such as Fendi and Gucci. Since it is a public holiday, every brand will launch appealing National Day offers and limited edition items that are themed around the UAE. You can proudly display it as a memento.

Make sure you have additional luggage space when packing! The most talented Emirati musicians and singers will join forces to play various upbeat National Day tunes at the Central Avenue piazza. Bring your blankets and chairs for a fun night under the stars while listening to modern versions of national songs and traditional regional tunes.

Al Seef Heritage Area

This sprawling, creekside locale is a great place to experience Dubai's history by restoring houses and wind towers surrounded by modern cafes and stores. Explore the waterfront while taking in Emirati heritage and culture through authentic experiences.

Popular Events During UAE National Holidays

• Parade Of Dreams On Barasti Beach

Prepare yourself for the first-ever Caribbean Carnival Parade in Dubai! The festival will bring the lively and vibrant spirit from the Caribbean to Barasti Beach and a distinct cultural experience. Choose the carnival theme as you dance to Caribbean beats while enjoying the festivities.

- Rates: From AED 276

- Hours: Sunday, Nov. 30, 10 AM to 4 PM

- Contact: (04) 511 7373

• Oli Oli

Take a journey through UAE's rich traditions. This is National Day at OliOli's Playback UAE event. Great for family-friendly outings. The nostalgic experience includes:

Games from childhood that are classic

- Interactive exhibits

A special museum takeover that showcases the UAE's rich cultural heritage

Details:

- Where: OliOli, 62 4 A St, Al Quoz 1, Dubai

- When: Nov 29 - Dec 3, 10 AM - 9 PM

Tickets start at AED 69 (includes the full OliOli access)

• AKS Dance Music Festival

For two nights of excitement, the AKS Dance Festival will take over Dubai's biggest outdoor venue, Zero Gravity! The event will feature amazing local and international performers. This festival will make you dance to a variety of Bollywood songs and the hottest commercial tracks. Don't miss this one—it's the final National Day weekend party venue! We can also help you to buy properties in dubai creek harbour.

Rates: Starting from AED 100/person

- When: 31st of November & 1st of December

- Location: Zero Gravity, Skydive Dubai, Dubai Port, Dubai

- Contact: 052 779 9914

• White Swam Across The Beach

Why not take advantage of National Day at White Beach by throwing the beach? Enjoy the summer vibes when international DJs take to the stage, resulting in an easy-going but energetic Sunday. This is the perfect venue if you enjoy soaking up the sun and dancing at the beach.

- Offer: From AED 250

- When: Saturday, Dec. 1, 1 PM.-6 PM

- Venue: Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai

- Contact: (04) 426 0700

Wrapping Up

This guide ends the most memorable National Day celebrations across Dubai to enjoy unforgettable holidays with family and friends, from world-renowned fireworks and cultural shows to historical sightseeing and family-friendly entertainment. There's something spectacular for people of all ages to take in.

Whatever you do, the following list will cover everything you need to ensure a fun week