Dubai is preparing for citywide celebrations to mark the 54th Eid Al Etihad, with most residents set to enjoy a four-day weekend. The public holiday falls on Monday, 1 December, and Tuesday, 2 December, paving the way for a series of events from 1 to 3 December that include dazzling fireworks, live concerts, parades, and retail promotions.
Spectacular Fireworks and Live Concerts
The city’s skyline will be illuminated with breathtaking firework displays on 2 December. The shows will begin at 8pm at Dubai Festival City Mall and in Hatta, followed by 9pm displays at Souk Al Seef, Bluewaters, and The Beach, JBR. Additionally, Global Village will host its own fireworks and synchronised drone shows at 9pm every night from 1 to 3 December.
A strong line-up of musical talent will perform across the city. Emirati superstar Balqees is scheduled to hold a concert at Festival Bay in Dubai Festival City Mall on 2 December, with tickets starting at Dh75. The evening will also feature an 8pm fireworks display before the main performance. City Walk will host two free concerts, with regional icon Diana Haddad taking the stage at 8pm on 1 December, followed by acclaimed Emirati artist Shamma Hamdan at 8pm on 2 December.
Cultural Parades and Family Activities
The annual Eid Al Etihad parade, a collaboration with Dubai Police, will return to City Walk on 1 December at 4pm. The march is expected to feature over 1,000 participants, including members of Dubai Police and students from schools overseen by the KHDA.
Authentic Emirati traditions will be showcased through cultural performances at more than 20 locations, featuring Al Ayala, Al Harbia, and Yola dances. In Hatta, outdoor celebrations will include folk performances and a patriotic fireworks display lighting up the mountains. Other family-friendly venues are also participating, with Dubai Frame lighting up in UAE flag colours and Children’s City hosting craft and theatre workshops.
Shopping Deals and Mall Entertainment
Retailers across Dubai will offer exclusive promotions from 1 to 3 December. Major shopping centres will transform into celebration hubs with special décor and free entertainment. At Dubai Festival City Mall, shoppers spending between Dh1,000 and Dh10,000 at apparel stores can earn double BLUE points from 28 November to 2 December.
City Centre Mirdif will host a week-long celebration from 28 November to 3 December, featuring fashion showcases, live pottery demonstrations, and creative workshops. Meanwhile, Ibn Battuta Mall will present an ‘Expressions with Art’ theme from 1 to 3 December, with interactive digital zones and family activities.
Unique Dining and Sporting Events
Dubai’s food scene will introduce “Dubai Burger,” a culinary initiative where select restaurants like High Joint and Izu Burger will serve limited-edition burgers inspired by Emirati flavours. For fitness and sports enthusiasts, the weekend offers several major events. The 1000 Miglia, a classic car rally, will see over 120 vintage cars drive through the city from 30 November to 4 December. Polo fans can watch the Sir Winston Churchill Cup at Al Habtoor Polo Resort and Club from 3 to 6 December.
The extensive programme of events underscores the city’s festive spirit for the national holiday. From cultural showcases and live entertainment to shopping and dining, the celebrations offer a diverse range of activities for both residents and visitors to enjoy during the long weekend.
