Eid Al Etihad (UAE National Day)
Eid Al Etihad on 2 December marks the union of the United Arab Emirates in 1971 and is the biggest national celebration of the UAE year.
- UK (not marked)
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- UAE and Gulf
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About the day
Eid Al Etihad, also known as UAE National Day, is held on 2 December. It marks the day in 1971 when the emirates came together as the United Arab Emirates.
It is a public holiday, usually on 2 and 3 December, and the biggest national occasion of the year. Government bodies, schools, employers and brands across the country mark it with flags, events and campaigns.
2026 is the 55th Eid Al Etihad. Each year has its own official identity, and in 2026 it takes up the national Year of Family theme.
Dates for the next three years
| Year | Date | Where | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Wednesday 2 December 2026 | UAE and Gulf | Same date every year |
| 2027 | Thursday 2 December 2027 | UAE and Gulf | Same date every year |
| 2028 | Saturday 2 December 2028 | UAE and Gulf | Same date every year |
Sectors this day suits
Types of business that could link their activity to this day.
- Retail and malls
- Fashion and traditional dress
- Hotels and staycations
- Restaurants and cafes
- Airlines and travel
- Telecoms
- Banking
- Events and entertainment
Where this information comes from
- Khaleej Times: UAE National Day holidays
- Gulf News: UAE gears up for the 54th Eid Al Etihad
- Khaleej Times: 2026 named the Year of Family
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