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MonDec 2

UAE National Day – December 2, 2024

On December 2 we get ready to celebrate the UAE National Day! This year, let’s remember the historic relevance of the occasion and honor those who were the masterminds behind forming the UAE. Let’s take a look at the significance of the date.

History of UAE National Day

The United Arab Emirates was not always the powerful nation it is today. In fact, the country was distributed into rival tribal groups, occupying different areas. In 1820, Britain entered the picture and offered protection to the tribes in return for some control over the land. Desperate for peace, the numerous tribes accepted this offer and let Britain be in charge of settling their disputes. In 1968, Britain removed itself from the picture after it started experiencing financial losses.

After Britain’s exit from the scenario, the rulers of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Ajman, Al-Ain, Sharjah, and Umm al-Quwain decided to unite. On December 2, 1971, the emirates announced their independence from Britain and became the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Later on, Ras Al Khaimah – the seventh emirate – also joined this union. Do you know what the best part is? This merger and their freedom from the colonial rule were achieved without any violence!

To mark the unity of the seven emirates and the declaration of the United Arab Emirates, the flag of UAE as we know it today was raised, and the first president of UAE was selected — Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Sheikh Zayed was the Emir of Abu Dhabi and was the richest amongst the seven emirates. Today, UAE is recognized as a middle power and an influential nation with a flourishing economy, oil reserves, ample tourists, and some of the tallest buildings in the world. However, all the citizens of the UAE acknowledge that the power they possess today exists only because the seven emirates decided to unite in 1971.

UAE National Day timeline

1400s
Route of Gold

Dubai becomes a crossing point for trade.

1950s
Digging Riches

Oil is discovered in the UAE.

1962
The Beginning

Abu Dhabi begins exporting oil.

2007
Leading the World

A national development strategy to make UAE an economic success is revealed.

UAE National Day FAQs

What is National Day in the UAE?

National Day on December 2 in the UAE marks the unification of all seven Emirates into one nation.

How many days do people get off work on National Day in the UAE?

There are two days of holiday for National Day in the UAE.

What is National Day in Dubai?

National Day on December 2 is one of the biggest celebrations in Dubai and the rest of the country. In 2021, the country will be celebrating its golden anniversary of 50 years.

How to Celebrate UAE National Day

  1. Tour the country

    Feeling some love for your ancestors on this UAE National Day? This is the perfect time to tour the country and check out some historic landmarks. Trust us, you will fall slightly more in love with the UAE.

  2. Throw a party to celebrate

    If you are excited and want to show it, why not do it with a party? Not only will you get to dress up, but you can also spend time with close friends and family.

  3. Host a clean-up activity

    Do something that benefits the nation such as a clean-up drive. The activity will aid in providing a useful outlet for your patriotism and make the country spick and span at the same time.

5 Fun Facts About The UAE

  1. Dates for all

    The UAE has over 40 million date palms.

  2. The literate lot

    The literacy rate is 93%.

  3. Desert land

    The country has no rivers.

  4. A global village

    Around 200 nationalities exist in the UAE.

  5. Add a little oil

    It has the sixth-largest oil reserves in the world

Why UAE National Day is Important

  1. Historically relevant

    UAE National Day is a historic occasion that sheds light on how the United Arab Emirates was formed. It is essential to celebrate the day so that future generations are reminded of the history of the nation they reside in. Remembering the past often instills a love for the country in the hearts of the youth.

  2. Reminder of peace

    The events that occurred in the history of UAE National Day are an example of how freedom can be attained without the use of violence and war. The day also serves as a motivation for one to opt for progressive dialogue to sort out political issues.

  3. It shows there is strength in unity

    You've heard of 'divide and conquer.' Well, the formation of the UAE shows exactly how much strength there is in the opposite — unity. Celebrating UAE National Day yearly is a reminder of this very strength.

UAE National Day dates

YearDateDay
2024December 2Monday
2025December 2Tuesday
2026December 2Wednesday
2027December 2Thursday
2028December 2Saturday

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