The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) has confirmed that employees across UAE federal ministries and entities will observe the 54th Eid Al Etihad holiday on Monday and Tuesday, December 1–2, 2025. Work will resume on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, according to the authority’s announcement.
Extending its congratulations to the UAE leadership, government, citizens, and residents, FAHR said it wished the nation continued prosperity and progress, the WAM report noted.
Read more-Upcoming GCC public holidays, National Day closures: What to know
أعلنت الهيئة الاتحادية للموارد البشرية الحكومية أن عطلة عيد الاتحاد الــ54 لدولة الإمارات العربية المتحدة، لموظفي الوزارات والجهات الاتحادية ستكون يومي الاثنين والثلاثاء الموافقين 1 – 2 ديسمبر لعام 2025، على أن يستأنف الدوام الرسمي يوم الأربعاء الموافق الثالث من ديسمبر. pic.twitter.com/wvvPka626H
— FAHR (@FAHR_UAE) November 17, 2025
The holiday marks UAE National Day, celebrated annually on December 2 to commemorate the historic unification of the seven emirates in 1971. The anniversary, known as “Eid Al Etihad” or the Festival of the Union, remains a pivotal moment in the nation’s formation and identity-building journey.
On December 2, 1971, the rulers of the emirates signed the unification agreement that transformed separate territories into a cohesive state under the visionary leadership of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the UAE. The National Day theme, “Spirit of the Union,” continues to underscore the country’s values of unity, loyalty, and forward-looking development.
Nationwide celebrations reflect economic confidence
Across the UAE, National Day celebrations have evolved into large-scale cultural and community events that underscore both national pride and economic dynamism. Public spaces, buildings, and commercial districts are adorned in the colors of the UAE flag, red, white, green, and black, supporting a festive environment that typically boosts retail, tourism, and hospitality activity.
Cities across the emirates host fireworks, heritage programs, outdoor festivals, and concerts. Air shows featuring the UAE Air Force aerobatic team, Al Fursan, remain a key attraction, drawing residents and visitors as the country experiences a surge in holiday-related mobility and consumer spending.
Government reaffirms vision for unity and growth
The UAE government positions National Day as a moment not only to honor its founding legacy but also to reinforce the nation’s long-term development agenda. The commemorations are coordinated across all emirates with cultural activities, heritage showcases, and community engagement initiatives that reflect the UAE’s sustained investment in social cohesion and identity.
Eid Al Etihad serves as a symbolic reminder of the country’s unity, one strengthened by the connections forged among diverse communities.
The visual identity used during the official celebrations draws inspiration from early Emirati life, featuring symbolic motifs such as palm trees, historic dhows, rising suns, traditional dances, forts, and pearl oysters, all representing elements of the UAE’s heritage.
As one of the UAE’s most significant national holidays, National Day continues to unify citizens and residents in celebrating the country’s history, culture, and progress. Government sources consistently highlight its role in promoting national pride, strengthening community ties, and advancing a shared vision for the country’s future.