Abu Dhabi soaks in festive National Day celebrations
- 2 hours ago
Gulf Today, Staff Reporter
With the United Arab Emirates’ 53rd Eid Al Etihad on the horizon, Abu Dhabi is offering a packed lineup of events and activities for the occasion. Taking place across the UAE capital, the garden city of Al Ain, and Al Dhafra region, the festivities will feature a host of concerts, performances, cultural celebrations, workshops, exhibitions and more – offering something for everyone to join in and mark the nation’s milestone.
‘Culture for All’ experience
As part of the ‘Culture for All’ initiative, Abu Dhabi is celebrating Eid Al Etihad by waiving entry fees at three key attractions on 2 December. Louvre Abu Dhabi, Qasr Al Hosn, and Jebel Hafit Desert Park will all offer free entry to all to mark the country’s special occasion.
Other sites across Abu Dhabi remain free of charge and open to the public, including:
• Bait Mohamed Bin Khalifa
• Al Jahili Fort
• Qasr Al Muwaiji
• Al Ain Oasis
• Al Qattara Arts Center
• Cultural Foundation
• House of Artisans
• The Founder's Memorial
• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
• Wahat Al Karama
• Heritage Village
• Manarat Sadiyaat
Eid Al Etihad offers the perfect opportunity to explore Abu Dhabi’s diverse cultural scene. From globally renowned institutions at Saadiyat Cultural District to landmarks like Qasr Al Hosn and the Al Ain Oasis, the long weekend encourages everyone to immerse themselves in the UAE’s rich legacy and cultural heritage. Register now to secure your preferred timeslot and explore the attractions!
MOTN Festival concerts
This year, the Mother of the Nation (MOTN) Festival takes off in Al Mugheirah Bay and Al Ain with a thrilling new space-themed experience – offering Instagrammable moments, family activities, star-studded concerts and more until 2 December.
With Eida Al Menhali and Harbi Al Ameri taking the stage on 2 December, MOTN Festival’s Eid Al Etihad concerts in Al Ain bring added excitement to the celebrations.
Sheikh Zayed Festival
Running until 28 February, the Sheikh Zayed Festival has turned Al Wathba into a vibrant cultural hub, showcasing the UAE’s rich history, values, and spirit with a festive touch. From 4 pm onwards till 3 December, the festival will celebrate Eid Al Etihad with Emirati folk arts performances, heritage games, traditional dances and a host of surprise activities.
Eid Al Etihad cultural celebrations
On 6 December at 8 pm, "Melodic Memories”, a concert of national songs, will celebrate the UAE’s pride and unity.
The "Heart of the Community” pop-up, running daily until 15 December from 4pm onwards, will feature small businesses, children’s activities, and food options for everyone to enjoy at Qasr Al Hosn. The nearby House of Artisans will showcase "The Journey: A Sadu Experience,” a temporary exhibition on Sadu weaving in Emirati culture, which will run daily until 15 December from 4pm onwards.
Till 4 December, Manarat Al Saadiyat will host an outdoor market starting at 3pm, featuring emerging retail brands, cultural workshops, food stalls, and local crafts – making for great holiday gift ideas!
The 53rd Eid Al Etihad Traditional Rowing Race (40-foot category) will take place on 2 December from 3pm at Breakwater on Abu Dhabi Corniche. This annual event helps promote and preserve Emirati maritime heritage.
In Al Ain, the official 53rd Eid Al Etihad ceremony will be livestreamed on 2 December at 6pm at Al Jahili Fort, Qasr Al Muwaiji, and Al Ain Oasis.
Meanwhile, Bait Mohammed Bin Khalifa will feature traditional performances, Emirati heritage games, artisanal craft demonstrations, children’s art workshops, and competitions on 2 and 3 December from 4 to 10pm.
Until 3 December, Souq Al Qattara will celebrate with traditional performances, handicrafts, and an artisans market, open from 5 to 11pm.
These cultural celebrations across Abu Dhabi and Al Ain invite everyone to immerse themselves in the UAE’s rich heritage and festive spirit. Join the celebration in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain for an Eid Al Etihad to remember.
