Dubai is preparing to celebrate the 54th Union Day with an extraordinary lineup of festivities that will light up every corner of the city. Taking place from December 1 to 3, the celebrations reflect the UAE’s spirit of unity, cultural heritage, and forward-looking vision.
This year’s theme, “United,” captures the essence of the country’s journey — honoring tradition while embracing innovation. The events will combine Emirati culture, hospitality, food, music, and family entertainment, offering something for everyone.
Highlights of the Union Day Celebrations in Dubai:
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Grand Parade at City Walk (December 1): Kicking off at 4 PM, the parade will feature more than 1,000 participants from Dubai Police, students, and government entities. It’s a colorful and inspiring showcase of national unity.
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Fireworks & Drone Shows (December 1–3): Spectacular fireworks will illuminate the skies at various locations including Dubai Festival City Mall, Hatta, Souk Al Seef, Bluewaters, and The Beach at JBR. Global Village will host nightly fireworks and drone shows throughout the three-day period.
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Live Concerts: Celebrated Emirati singer Balqees will perform on December 2 at Dubai Festival City Mall, following a breathtaking fireworks show. Diana Haddad will take the stage at City Walk on December 1, with Shamma Hamdan performing there the following evening.
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Cultural Shows and Heritage Experiences: Over 20 locations across Dubai will showcase traditional Emirati performances like Al Ayala, Harbiya, Liwa, and Yola, along with artisan demonstrations and heritage storytelling.
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Hatta Celebrations: Visitors can enjoy fireworks lighting up the Hatta mountains on December 2, alongside cultural performances and illuminated streets, offering a picturesque and heartfelt experience.
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Retail & Dining Offers: Shoppers can enjoy exclusive Union Day discounts from December 1 to 3, perfect for updating wardrobes or finding the ideal holiday gifts. Malls will also feature themed décor, free family entertainment, and interactive installations.
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Dubai Festival City Mall Promotions: Shoppers spending between AED 1,000–10,000 from November 28 to December 2 can earn double points via the BLUE rewards app. The mall also hosts a carnival-style food market, comedy nights, cultural workshops, and art activations.
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City Centre Mirdif Events: From November 28 to December 3, visitors can enjoy a week-long cultural celebration with fashion shows, interactive workshops, pottery-making, traditional crafts, and live performances.
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Ibn Battuta Mall Activities: Under the theme “Express Through Art,” this venue will offer hands-on workshops, live performances, and artistic experiences suitable for all ages from December 1 to 3.
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Dubai Frame & Other Landmarks: Dubai Frame will be lit in the UAE flag colors and host heritage activities on December 2 and 3. Mushrif Park will feature military music and equestrian shows, while Children’s City will offer crafts and cooking workshops for kids.
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Global Village Spectacle: From November 25 to December 4, the village will host 10 unique art installations, cultural performances, live shows, and a musical concert by Khalid Mohammed on December 1. A grand operetta, “From the Desert to the Stars,” will run twice daily from December 1–3.
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Exclusive Hotel Packages: Major hotels across Dubai are offering themed staycation deals and family-friendly packages, including Delta by Marriott, Andaz Dubai The Palm, Sofitel Dubai, Grand Hyatt, and many more.
Fitness & Sports Events:
This year’s celebrations also include fitness and wellness activities for all ages. The “Baseball United Emirates” league runs until December 14, and the Sir Winston Churchill Polo Cup will take place from December 3 to 6. Car enthusiasts can enjoy the return of the 1000 Miglia classic car experience, with over 120 vintage cars parading through the city from November 30 to December 4.
Culinary Experiences:
Dubai’s food scene joins the celebration with the “Dubai Burger” initiative. Select burger restaurants will offer limited-edition creations inspired by beloved Emirati ingredients and flavors — a delicious way to connect with the heritage through food.
Arts & School Competitions:
A citywide art competition for school students is also underway until December 3. Under the theme “Proud of Our Union, Heritage, and Future,” students are invited to express their love for the UAE through paintings, poetry, performances, and storytelling.
