We love the string of activities that pop up across the country during National Day. From parades to concerts, the celebration is in the air. The air will also be full of the sounds of fireworks as they crackle and dazzle the skies across the city. The public holiday is known for its magnificent display of UAE National Day fireworks which are absolutely stunning AND free to watch. However, it’s all about being in the right place at the right time to catch the pyrotechnics shows in all their sparkling glory. Here’s a list of fireworks shows to check out in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah this 52nd UAE National Day.
Dubai
There has been no confirmation yet, but based on previous years expect waterfront destinations such as Dubai Festival City, Al Seef, The Beach JBR and Bluewaters to put up stunning fireworks displays on December 1, 2 and 3. Iconic structures such as the Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab are also known to set off sparkling pyrotechnics across the sky on the special occasion of the UAE National Day over the long weekend.
Abu Dhabi
The capital is pulling out the big ones this Union Day, so if you’re fancying a road trip that ends in a dazzling shower of sparks.
1. Yas Island
The sound of F1’s revving engines will be replaced by the resounding thunderclap of fireworks at this entertainment destination this weekend. Yas Bay waterfront will come alive with fireworks at 9pm on December
2. Al Maryah Island
It’s a double treat at this plush lifestyle hub that’s got two grand fireworks shows up their sleeve. The Promenade‘s waterfront views will be lit up by fireworks in the colours of the UAE National Flag on December 2 and 3 at 9pm.
3. Abu Dhabi Corniche
Another well-loved shoreside outdoor spot in the capital – Abu Dhabi Corniche – is one of the best vantage points for spectacular fireworks. You can catch the skies above corniche crackle and pop with streaks of fiery lights at 9pm on December 2 and 3.
4. Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
For something truly patriotic, head over to this palatial resort where they’ve switched out colourful explosions for a drone show at 9pm on December 2. The venue will glow up in the UAE’s national colours of red, green, black and white.
5. Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium, Al Ain
Out in Al Ain, the birthplace of H.H Sheikh Zayed, a five-minute-long fireworks display will set off at the Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium. From 9pm to 9:05pm on December 2, the state-of-the-art football stadium (also home stadium of Al Ain FC) will celebrate Union Day with gusto.
6. Sheikh Zayed Festival, Al Wathba
The heritage festival’s jam-packed itinerary of culture and entertainment also squeezes in a smidge of awe-inspiring fireworks to take your breath away this National Day. On December 2, the festival will put up a show of fireworks and drones at 10pm to wow spectators.
Sharjah
Our friendly neighbourhood emirate has some fantastic celebrations in store if you fancy a visit. From November 28 to December 3 the main events for the 52nd Union Day will be held at the Sharjah National Park, including fireworks. Other parts of the emirate hosting celebrations include Al Dhaid, Khor Fakkan, Al Bataeh region, Kalba, and Heritage Village. Al Mudam region will be putting on a fireworks show as part of its events.