Fireworks, aerobatics and parades for UAE National Day celebrations

Two mega firework displays, an aerobatics show, a car parade and a women-only beach celebration are among the events planned for the 42nd National Day.

From November 28 until December 2, Abu Dhabi will host a range of festive activities spanning the emirate from the capital to Al Gharbia for the 42nd National Day. Ravindranath K / The National

Two massive firework displays, an aerobatics show, a car parade and a women-only beach celebration are among the events planned to mark the 42nd National Day.

From November 28 until December 2, Abu Dhabi will host a range of festive activities spanning the emirate from the capital to Al Gharbia.

“There is a ton of choices throughout the whole emirate this year for all to join in the National Day celebrations,” said Faisal Al Sheikh, the head of the events bureau at Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority.

The pyrotechnic highlight of the celebrations, which retain the “Spirit of the Union” theme for a third year, will be two 10-minute firework displays along Abu Dhabi Corniche at 8pm on December 1 and 2.

Al Ain will have its own fireworks display, and will be resuming its annual air show after the event was postponed last year. The 10th Al Ain Aerobatic Show will run from November 30 to December 2.

Yas Island will also be in celebratory mood on National Day, and drivers will be able to display their decorated vehicles round the island’s leisure drive.

Last year’s Union Car Parade gave out Dh100,000 in prize money to the 10 most flamboyant and creatively designed cars, with the overall winner receiving Dh25,000.

This year’s National Day parade will begin at 5pm but the carnival atmosphere will be well under way by then, with thousands of vehicles expected to roll into the du Forum car park from 2pm.

There will also be a first for Abu Dhabi with a public ladies-only event on Al Bateen Beach, with a range of activities along the 700-metre waterfront.

Concerts and fireworks are also planned for the western region’s Madinat Zayed and Delma Island.

The authority is working with event organisers to release a National Day calendar in October that will list all government and private organisations’ activities.

“Again we are planning a show that will have an anniversary and Emirati feel,” Mr Al Sheikh said.

“People can anticipate an action-packed weekend to satisfy the tastes of residents and visitors alike, and which will undoubtedly make Abu Dhabi the place to be for the 42nd National Day.”