UAE National Day 2025: 8 Must-Do Activities Over the Long Weekend

Listen to this article with AI

Dubai is gearing up for the UAE National Day 2025 long weekend, and the city promises non-stop celebrations for locals and visitors alike. Commemoration Day falls on Saturday, November 30, followed by National Day on Tuesday, December 2, and another day of festivities on Wednesday, December 3. With the official holiday spanning Monday, December 1 to Tuesday, December 2, the city offers a perfect four-day window for luxury, culture, adventure, and family fun. Here’s your ultimate Dubai.News guide to making the most of it.

1. Pedal Through Al Qudra Cycle Track

For fitness lovers and cycling enthusiasts, Al Qudra offers two scenic tracks: 50km and 18km, cutting through golden dunes and desert landscapes. Flat and well-maintained, the tracks include rest stops along the way — perfect for professional cyclists and casual pedal-pushers alike. Open 24/7 and free, it’s a desert adventure just minutes from the city.

2. Fireworks Spectacular Across Dubai

This year marks the 54th UAE National Day, and Dubai’s skyline will shine with dazzling fireworks displays at Bluewaters, Dubai Festival City, and more iconic landmarks. Capture the perfect Instagram shot or enjoy a family outing — fireworks are timed throughout the weekend, so check the schedule to catch the full spectacle.

3. Family Fun at Jumeirah Golf Estate

On December 2, the Jumeirah Golf Estate comes alive with traditional Yowla dance performances, Emirati craft stations, camel rides, and bouncy castles. Family-friendly dining, food stalls, and interactive activities make this an ideal spot for kids and adults to celebrate together.

4. Sky-High Celebrations with Emirates

Emirates Airlines is taking the National Day spirit onboard with UAE-themed cabin lighting and Emirati-inspired desserts. Passengers on select flights from Dec 2–3 can enjoy a unique experience combining luxury travel and cultural treats — a celebration literally in the sky.

5. Snap the UAE Flag Garden at Umm Suqeim Beach

Now in its 12th edition, the UAE Flag Garden features 11,000 flags forming aerial portraits of national leaders, with the iconic Burj Al Arab in the backdrop. A vibrant and photogenic attraction open Oct 31–Jan 10, perfect for photography enthusiasts or families looking for a memorable day out.

6. UAE-Inspired Food Experiences

Dubai is serving up unique treats during the long weekend:

• Eid Al Etihad Burgers at High Joint, Izu Burger, and Hoe Lee Kow.

• Novikov Dubai offers complimentary National Day tartlets on Dec 2.

• Time Out Market Dubai serves everything from burgers to nachos.

• Peoples Honesty Eatery treats diners with complimentary UAE-flag-shaped tiramisu.

7. Adventure & Outdoor Fun

• Hatta Hikes: Explore the Hajar mountains and snap the Guinness World Record Hatta sign, the tallest landmark sign globally.

• Emirati Food Tour: Indulge in a 4-hour guided tasting around Umm Suqeim and Jumeirah, including karak, dates, seafood, and storytelling.

• Jumeirah Burj Al Arab Pastry Selection: Savor Emirati-inspired pastries like batheeth mousse, ferni choux, and crispy luqaimat.

8. Shows, Markets & Interactive Fun

• Dubai Rugby 7s (Nov 28–30) with rugby, netball, cricket, and live performances including Stormzy.

• Clean Bandit at Barasti Beach (Nov 29) for an unforgettable concert experience.

• Global Village Fireworks & Drone Shows (Dec 1–3).

• House of Hype: Winter wonderland with giant snow globes, photobooths, parades, and ugly sweater contests.

• Ripe Market: Shop local produce, enjoy gelato, and visit the petting zoo.

• City Walk Parade: Over 1,000 participants celebrate the UAE on Dec 1.

• AYA Universe at Wafi City: 12 immersive interactive rooms for galaxy-themed fun.

Dubai’s National Day 2025 is stacked with luxury experiences, family-friendly activities, cultural shows, and unique foodie moments. Whether you’re looking to snap fireworks, ride through dunes, enjoy Emirati cuisine, or simply soak in the Dubai glamour, there’s something unforgettable waiting for everyone this long weekend.