National Month in Dubai: Celebrate UAE's Pride This November!

Dubai is buzzing with excitement as the emirate gears up for its second-ever National Month, a month-long celebration of unity, heritage, and national pride running from November 3 to December 2, 2025. This isn't just another calendar entry—it's a powerful manifestation of what it means to be Emirati and a chance for residents and visitors alike to be part of something truly extraordinary.

Why You Should Be Excited About National Month

The beauty of National Month lies in its essence: it's a collective expression of loyalty and belonging rooted in the vision of the UAE's founding fathers, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum.​

As His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, put it: "Led by Brand Dubai, National Month is a collective effort to commemorate our national occasions in a coordinated and harmonised way. The campaign will be a powerful demonstration of national solidarity and our shared aspirations for the future, rooted in loyalty and belonging."​

This year promises something even bigger than last year's inaugural celebration. Shaima Al Suwaidi, Director of Brand Dubai, emphasized that "This year's National Month celebrations are designed to be a creative expression of our values and ideals, highlighting the importance of national occasions in ways that are engaging and meaningful to the community." The month combines reflection, unity, and national identity—creating what Grazia beautifully described as "a love letter to the UAE, in lights, stories, and community."​

What Makes It Special This Year

53 Incredible Events Across Dubai: Brand Dubai has coordinated over 53 events featuring everything from fireworks and concerts to cultural exhibitions and heritage showcases. Whether you're into live entertainment, traditional experiences, or family fun, there's something for everyone.​

The Return of #ZayedAndRashid Campaign: For the second consecutive year, this powerful initiative honors the founding fathers whose dreams transformed the UAE into a global powerhouse. Last year, this digital campaign reached over 2 billion social media interactions, proving just how deeply it resonates with people.​

Focus on Community and Local Talent: Unlike past celebrations that relied solely on big productions, this year welcomes over 200 organisations, creatives, and community members—particularly entrepreneurs and SMEs from Brand Dubai's Proudly from Dubai network—to co-create meaningful experiences.​

Major Activities & Dates You Can't Miss

November 12–18: Dhai Dubai Light Art Festival (5 PM–midnight) – Stunning light installations transform the city, creating an immersive visual experience.​

November 15–December 3: Al Fahidi Historic Village & Hatta Heritage Village – Explore authentic Emirati traditions, children's camps, and cultural activities celebrating the nation's rich past.​

November 25–December 4: Global Village – Global Village transforms into a dazzling destination under the theme "United" with fireworks, drone shows, and the theatrical operetta "From the Desert to the Stars," telling the story of the UAE's journey through dance and music.​

December 2–3: The Grand Finale—Eid Al Etihad (UAE National Day) – This is when the magic truly happens:

• Fireworks Spectacular: Burj Khalifa, Dubai Festival City, Bluewaters Island, Abu Dhabi Corniche, Al Majaz Waterfront (Sharjah), Palm Jumeirah, and Global Village all light up the night sky.​

• Drone Shows: Exclusive UAE-themed drone displays at Global Village (9 PM on Dec 1–3).​

• Dubai Festival City: The spectacular IMAGINE light show combines lasers, lights, and water projections.​

• Car Parades: Join residents painting vehicles in the national colors—a beloved tradition celebrating patriotism.​

• Live Entertainment: Traditional Yola and Harbiya folk performances, concerts, and cultural shows throughout venues.​

• Beachfront Celebrations: Waterfront spots like Souk Al Seef, Bluewaters, and JBR feature live Emirati folk bands and family activities.​

Cultural Experiences Worth Your Time

Al Safa Library for Arts & Design (Nov 3–Dec 2): Curated exhibits exploring UAE's history and culture.​

Etihad Museum (Dec 2): Witness stunning projection mapping that brings the nation's founding story to life.​

Dubai Public Library (Dec 2): Special cultural displays celebrating national heritage.​

Heritage Shopping: Browse Emirati crafts, traditional products, and exclusive National Day merchandise at the Emirates Pavilion and 971 Community Pavilion at Global Village.​

Authentic Emirati Cuisine: From Luqaimat to Machboos, Al Harees to Ragag bread—taste the flavors that define Emirati culture at food festivals and pop-up stalls throughout the month.​

Why National Month Matters Beyond the Spectacle

This celebration goes beyond fireworks and festivities. Mona Al Marri, Vice Chairperson of the Dubai Media Council, highlighted the deeper purpose: "This year's campaign will build on the strong community engagement of the first edition of National Month held last year. National Month gives our community an opportunity to express their love for the country and their pride in its success."​

It's a reminder of where the UAE came from—a transformational journey from desert settlements to a global hub of innovation, tolerance, and opportunity. As one of Sheikh Zayed's most profound quotes reminds us: "A nation without a past is a nation without a present or a future."​

National Month in Dubai isn't just a celebration; it's an invitation to be part of a larger story. Whether you're a long-time resident, a recent arrival, or a first-time visitor, this month offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with UAE's heritage, celebrate its achievements, and look forward to its future—all while enjoying world-class entertainment, cultural experiences, and unforgettable moments with your community.

Mark your calendars. Wear your national colors. And get ready to celebrate a nation that has inspired the world.

National Month runs from November 3 to December 2, 2025. Events are happening across all of Dubai—start planning your calendar today!