UAE National Day 2024 official ceremony to be held in Al Ain City

People across the UAE can tune in to the live broadcast on December 2

Al Ain showcases the UAE's commitment to sustainability, according to Aysha Al Nuaimi, the organising committee’s head of communications. Photo: Wam

Eid Al Etihad's official ceremony will be held in Al Ain City on Monday, December 2, the organising committee for the 53rd annual celebration has announced.

Also known as Union Day or National Day, it marks the anniversary of the foundation of the UAE, which took place on December 2, 1971, when six of today's seven emirates united to form one country – Ras Al Khaimah joined a few months later in February 1972.

A live broadcast of the ceremony will be live-streamed across local TV channels alongside Eid Al Etihad’s YouTube channel, website, cinemas and selected public areas, state news agency Wam reported.

Viewing locations will be set up throughout the Emirates, which will be announced soon. This year’s ceremony will focus on the legacy of the country’s founding fathers.

“Al Ain holds significant historical importance that dates back thousands of years,” Aysha Al Nuaimi, the organising committee’s head of communications, said. “It is a city where nature and heritage intertwine seamlessly, showcasing the UAE's commitment to sustainability.”

“Rooted in centuries-old traditions, Al Ain’s natural environment and historical landmarks are treasures of Emirati heritage,” she added. “Combined with modern sustainability initiatives, Al Ain has transformed into a beacon of environmental stewardship, preserving its natural beauty while embracing progress to inspire future generations.”

Emiratis and residents are gearing up for a long weekend, with a host of celebrations lined up from December 1 to showcase the nation's rich cultural diversity.

From cultural celebrations and concerts to spectacular parades and fireworks, several events have been lined up. Malls around the nation will be decked out in UAE colours and themes, with special discounts on offer to mark the festivities.

How National Day was celebrated in the early years of the UAE – in pictures

The UAE celebrates its second National Day, in 1973, with a parade along the old corniche in Abu Dhabi. Photo: Peter Alves

Armed forces march along Abu Dhabi's old corniche as part of National Day celebrations in 1973. Photo: Peter Alves

Crowds gather on a building under construction to watch the UAE's second National Day parade go by in Abu Dhabi, in 1973. Photo: Peter Alves

The UAE celebrates its second National Day, in 1973, with a parade along the old corniche in Abu Dhabi. Photo: Peter Alves

A float representing Al Maqta bridge is driven along Abu Dhabi's old corniche in 1973. Photo: Peter Alves

Marchers create the UAE flag as part of the National Day parade in 1973. Photo: Peter Alves

The parade stretches further in 1973. Photo: Peter Alves

A vehicle is stuck in sand as the UAE's second National Day celebrations continue. Photo: Peter Alves

Egyptian singer Najat Al Saghira performs on December 2, 1972, a year to the day after the UAE was formed. Photo: Alittihad

The UAE's Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, at the first anniversary of the Union, on December 2, 1972. Photo: Ministry of the Presidential Court

Sheikh Zayed watches a military ceremony for the fourth National Day in 1975. Photo: Ittihad

Sheikh Zayed at the UAE's first National Day celebration. Photo: Alittihad

Al Saghira performs in Abu Dhabi for the first National Day celebrations, in 1972. Photo: Alittihad