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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 53rd UAE National Day.
Dubai
1. Global Village
Everyone’s favourite world-themed entertainment destination is going the whole nine yards for National Day celebrations. From November 29-December 3, fireworks in the colours of the UAE flag will scatter above Global Village at 9pm every evening. On December 2, a special drone show will light up the skies.
2. Al Seef
Turn your eyes to the skies at 9pm on December 3 to catch a stunning shower of fireworks cascading over this heritage destination in Old Dubai.
3. Bluewaters
At 9pm on December 1, fireworks will sparkle over Bluewaters and the stunning Ain Dubai making for striking Instagram shots. There’s plenty of other entertaining stuff in store too at the destination.
4. The Beach
This JBR location sets off spectacular fireworks at 8pm on December 1. The eateries located at the venue are a great spot to stop by for some good grub as well as a great vantage point to see the fireworks display.
5. Dubai Festival City
As the clock strikes 9:40 on the night of December 2, the Festival Bay fireworks will kick off after a live performance by Emirati singers Faisal Al Jasim and Aryam. Better brush up on your lyrics to Ishy Bilady so you can sing along at your patriotic loudest.
6. Hatta Sign
The landmark that toppled Los Angeles’ Hollywood Sign will set the backdrop for mesmerising fireworks at 8pm on Union Day – December 2.
7. Riverland, Dubai Parks and Resorts
The theme park is adding some fizz and pop with fireworks to its already explosive lineup of thrilling rides for UAE National Day. On December 1 and 2, at 7pm and 9:30pm, catch the skies above Riverland burst into colours.
AED 15 entrance fee, buy tickets here
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 but nothing has been confirmed yet.
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 Circuit
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. There’s also a fantastic car parade, motocross stunts, go-karting and fun events to check out while you’re there. Entry is free, register here.
2. Yas Bay Waterfront
Traditional Ayla and Harbiya dance performances will be punctuated by stunning fireworks on December 2 at 9pm.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
For something truly patriotic, head over to this palatial resort colourful explosions for a fireworks show at 9pm on December 2. The venue will glow up in the UAE’s national colours of red, green, black and white.
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 1-3, the festival will put up a show of fireworks and drones to wow spectators. More details here
7. Mother of the Nation Festival, Al Ain
The Garden City’s Al Ain Square will bloom with fireworks displays on December 1 and 2 to celebrate Eid Al Etihad. The family-friendly festival is a great outdoor experience featuring live shows, games, food and rides. It is an annual celebration that honours H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak and the values and traditions she championed. More info here
Umm Al Quwain
The coastal emirate’s Al Khor Waterfront area is hosting a ton of National Day events. Look forward to magic shows, carnivals, folk performances, food village and fireworks, from November 29-December 3. A special fireworks display will sparkle the neighbourhood on December 2 and 7pm.