About this Holiday
UAE National Day commemorates the formation of the federation on December 2, 1971, when six emirates — Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, and Fujairah — united under one flag. Ras Al Khaimah joined in February 1972, completing the seven-emirate union. Celebrations span two days (December 2–3) and include spectacular fireworks, military parades, and cultural festivals. National Day is the UAE's most cherished occasion, a proud celebration of a young nation's remarkable journey from federation to one of the world's most dynamic and prosperous countries in just over five decades.