Where to watch the Eid Al Etihad fireworks in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Spectacular fireworks have become a highlight of Eid Al Etihad – also known as UAE National Day – celebrations, and this year will be no different.

In Dubai, celebrations for the 53rd year of unification will also include the launch of the Zayed and Rashid campaign, which places such as malls, seasonal markets and major tourist attractions will participate in.

Here are some places to head to across Dubai and Abu Dhabi for fireworks displays, along with line-ups of entertainment and cultural activities, from concerts to traditional folkloric performances.

Dubai

Riverland

The Dubai Parks and Resorts complex venue will host a fireworks show on December 2 at 9 p.m. Visitors can also enjoy the eco-friendly daily laser show at the venue, held at 7.30pm, 8.30pm, and 9.30pm.

Al Seef

In Old Dubai, people can head to Al Seef at 9pm on December 3 to catch a fireworks show. The venue offers a rustic vibe with its Arabian-style design, and several dining options are also available on-site, including Al Fanar Seafood, Nablus and Doors Freestyle Grill.

Dubai Festival City Mall

A two-for-one show is taking place at Dubai Festival City Mall – a fireworks display and the Imagine light show on the promenade. The spectacle, kicking off at 9.10pm on December 2, blends light, water and pyrotechnics for a more immersive experience. Guests can check out the waterfront restaurants of the mall for a more comfortable viewing spot.

Global Village

The beloved theme park will be running fireworks displays in honour on December 2 and 3 from 9pm. On National Day (December 2) visitors can also enjoy a drone show alongside special performances and all the usual family-friendly fun and food that Global Village offers each season.

Hatta

An awe-inspiring fireworks show is promised to light up the sky from the mountainside where the Hatta sign sits. This spot offers a more serene and natural backdrop, in comparison to fireworks in more central locations. It kicks of 8pm on December 2.

Abu Dhabi

Yas Marina Circuit

The Yas Island venue is hosting Eid Al Etihad on December 2 from 4pm to 10pm. A fireworks show is set to light up the skies in the evening. The family-friendly event will include a car parade featuring stunning vehicles decorated in UAE colours, as well as a karting competition for children and adults. The event is free but only those who have pre-registered on Yas Marina Circuit's website can attend.

Yas Bay Waterfront

The Yas Bay Waterfront fireworks display takes place on December 2 at 9pm. Guests can watch for free, but there is also the option to book surrounding restaurants for a more comfortable viewing experience. Restaurants include Daikan, Asia Asia, La Carnita and Paradiso.

Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental

The five-star hotel is celebrating with seven days of cultural experiences and live entertainment, from November 27 to December 3. The fireworks display will set off on the beach on December 2 at 9pm, accompanied by an Emirati orchestra earlier in the day at 2pm.

Guests can book a table at Sand & Koal (Dh380 minimum spend) for a more cosy experience, where there will be live entertainment with percussionists and fire dancers.

Al Wathba

The Sheikh Zayed Festival in Al Wathba will have fireworks shows from December 1 to 3, as well as a spectacle of drones lighting up the sky. Expect Emirati folk arts, heritage games, performances and more as well as special programmes arranged for children.

As one of the country's largest cultural festivals, the three-month event highlights Sheikh Zayed's legacy and honours local customs and heritage.

Al Maryah Island

The south plaza and promenade are ideal spots to watch the fireworks at Al Maryah Island on December 2 and 3 at 9pm. A light and water spectacle is also taking place, as well as a heritage boat show.

Visitors who want to enjoy the show with a meal can check out restaurants and cafes in the vicinity, including Michelin-starred 99 Sushi, LPM Restaurant and Bar, BB Social Dining and L’eto.