Where to Watch the Most Spectacular UAE National Day Fireworks This December 2

The UAE is gearing up for its 54th National Day celebrations, and if there's one thing that defines December 2 across the Emirates, it's the breathtaking fireworks that light up the sky in patriotic red, green, white, and black. This year's Eid Al Etihad promises to be more spectacular than ever, with synchronized displays, drone shows, and pyrotechnic extravaganzas happening across all seven emirates.​

With the four-day weekend upon us (December 1-2 are official holidays), I've mapped out the absolute best locations to catch these dazzling displays. Whether you're in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or exploring the Northern Emirates, here's your ultimate guide to National Day fireworks 2025.

Dubai's Top Fireworks Spots

Dubai Festival City Mall - 8:00 PM

Festival City kicks off the celebrations early with fireworks at 8 PM on December 2, followed by a live concert from Emirati superstar Balqees. The waterfront location offers stunning reflections over the water, and you can combine the show with dining at The Bay by Social's food market.​

Bluewaters Island & JBR - 9:00 PM

The Beach at JBR becomes one of Dubai's most popular viewing spots at 9 PM on December 2. Whether you watch from the JBR shore or the terraced restaurants of Bluewaters Island, the beachfront vibe adds something special to the experience.​

Global Village - 9:00 PM (Dec 1-3)

Global Village goes all out with fireworks AND synchronized drone shows at 9 PM across three nights - December 1, 2, and 3. The venue will glow in UAE flag colors with a special operetta performance created for National Day.​

Souk Al Seef - 9:00 PM (Dec 3)

For a more traditional atmosphere, head to Al Seef along Dubai Creek on December 3. The cultural setting, local food stalls, and waterfront charm make this a uniquely Emirati experience, with fireworks reflecting beautifully over the Creek.​

Hatta - 8:00 PM

If you want to escape the city crowds, Hatta offers a patriotic fireworks spectacle against its majestic mountains at 8 PM on December 2. The outdoor celebrations include folk performances and illuminated streets.​

Abu Dhabi's Must-See Displays

Yas Bay Waterfront - 9:00 PM (Dec 2-3)

Yas Island hosts two nights of festivities, with cultural performances and family entertainment leading up to the 9 PM fireworks show each evening. The waterside walkways and surrounding restaurants make this perfect for an evening out.​

Emirates Palace/Corniche - 9:15 PM

The storied Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental puts on a special show at 9:15 PM on December 2, slightly later than other locations. The Corniche offers sweeping views over the Arabian Gulf, making it one of Abu Dhabi's most iconic fireworks venues.​

Al Maryah Island - 9:00 PM (Dec 2-3)

The Galleria Al Maryah Island's Promenade hosts spectacular displays on both December 2 and 3 at 9 PM, with the bursts of color reflecting beautifully on the water.​

Sharjah & Northern Emirates

Al Majaz Waterfront - 9:00 PM

Sharjah's iconic waterfront location beside Khalid Lagoon offers breathtaking displays at 9 PM on December 2. The reflections on the water create a double spectacle that draws thousands of spectators.​

Ras Al Khaimah

While RAK is famous for its record-breaking New Year's Eve shows, National Day celebrations include events at Corniche Al Qawasim and the RAK Flagpole area.​

Pro Tips for the Best Experience

Arrive early - popular spots like JBR, Festival City, and Al Majaz fill up quickly. Most displays run between 8-9:15 PM, so plan your evening accordingly. Many venues offer family-friendly entertainment, food options, and cultural performances before the main show.​

With spectacular displays happening across the nation, there's no shortage of ways to celebrate the UAE's 54th year of unity. Grab your friends and family, wear your national colors, and prepare to watch the sky light up in celebration!