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What To Know

Dubai is gearing up for one of the most anticipated events of the year — the Al Etihad Parade, a major highlight of the UAE National Day celebrations.
Organised by Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office, in partnership with the Events Security Committee, the parade will take place on December 2 to mark the 54th Eid Al Etihad.
This year’s event forms an essential part of the wider National Month campaign launched by Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council.

Dubai is gearing up for one of the most anticipated events of the year — the Al Etihad Parade, a major highlight of the UAE National Day celebrations. Organised by Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office, in partnership with the Events Security Committee, the parade will take place on December 2 to mark the 54th Eid Al Etihad.

This year’s event forms an essential part of the wider National Month campaign launched by Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council. The initiative aims to foster unity, national pride, and community engagement through impressive public events that reflect the spirit and identity of the UAE.

Parade Route and Timings

The official gathering point for participants will be Dubai Maritime City at 3:00 PM.
The parade will begin at 4:00 PM and move along Jumeirah Road, stretching from the Union House intersection all the way to the Burj Al Arab intersection.

The colourful procession is expected to continue until 5:30 PM, offering residents and visitors a vibrant display of UAE heritage, culture, and community spirit. The route is one of Dubai’s most scenic stretches, providing plenty of ideal spots for spectators to gather and enjoy the celebrations.

To elevate the festive atmosphere, more than 30 volunteers from the Community Development Authority will distribute over 1,000 UAE flags to participants, ensuring a patriotic and unifying visual showcase along the parade path.

A Call for Safe and Responsible Celebrations

Shaima Al Suwaidi, Director of Brand Dubai, stressed the importance of following all approved guidelines, noting that compliance is essential to ensuring the safety of everyone attending. She highlighted that the parade reflects Dubai’s cultural values and must be conducted with respect for public order.

The Events Security Committee echoed this message, emphasising that the parade is a national celebration where safety remains the highest priority. Police patrols will be stationed along the entire route to manage traffic, assist participants, and prevent violations that could put the public at risk.

Official Guidelines for Participants

Authorities have issued a detailed list of requirements that all participants must follow. These rules apply to both vehicles and individuals taking part in the parade:

Only join authorised and approved parades; unregulated processions are prohibited.
Follow all police instructions and traffic rules throughout the event.
Remain inside the vehicle while it is moving; do not exit while the engine is running.
Keep the city clean — no littering or dumping waste onto the streets.
Do not cover vehicle windows or windshields with flags, stickers, or sunshades that hinder visibility.
The use of sprays, foam, or aerosol party products — inside or outside the vehicle — is strictly banned.
Do not exceed the permitted number of passengers; no one should lean out of windows or sunroofs.
Unlicensed vehicle modifications are not allowed, especially those affecting safety.
Do not obstruct traffic, block roads, or engage in dangerous overtaking.
Avoid stickers, flags, slogans, or decorations considered inappropriate.
Fireworks are strictly prohibited.
Number plates must remain visible, and vehicles cannot change colour without official approval.
Passengers may not sit in non-designated areas like pickup beds or cargo sections.
Vehicles emitting loud noise or extremely loud music will be in violation.

Penalties for Violations

Authorities have made it clear that failure to comply with these rules will result in strict penalties under Decree No. (30). Offenders could face:

Fines ranging from Dh10,000 to Dh100,000
Vehicle impoundment for over 90 days
Up to 24 black points
Possible driving licence suspension

These stringent measures aim to maintain order, ensure safety, and protect both participants and spectators during one of the UAE’s most cherished public events.

A Celebration of Unity

The Al Etihad Parade remains a powerful symbol of the UAE’s unity and cultural pride. Organisers encourage the public to participate responsibly, follow instructions from official channels, and embrace the national spirit this festive season brings.

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