Celebrating the spirit of the UAE

As the celebrations begin for the 46th UAE National Day this week, we’ve lined up all of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi to make sure that you don’t miss a moment of the action; from Smurfs to fireworks, and a full line up of exceptional events and cultural activities in between. And with a public holiday recently announced over the weekend, you’ll have even more time to enjoy the festivities…

Following a successful world tour, The Smurfs Live on Stage – Smurfs Save Spring musical makes its way to Abu Dhabi for the first time as part of the  National Day Weekend’s line-up of celebrations. Held at the Du Arena on Yas Island from Thursday November 30 to Friday December 1, families can get ready to cheer the Smurfs as they come to life on a grand stage, complete vibrant backdrops and wonderful sing-along music.

The lovable blue creatures won’t be the only ones gracing the stage at the du Forum this National Day though. Lebanese Superstar and multi-platinum singer, Nancy Ajram, will also deliver a dazzling performance to audiences on Saturday 2 December.

The Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival is named in honour of the UAE’s founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, in recognition of his pivotal role in preserving Abu Dhabi’s proud history whilst shaping the nation’s future. The Festival celebrates the UAE’s cultural inheritance, whilst showcasing the rich diversity of its traditions, with 20 interactive exhibitions, 80 restaurants, 500 shops and 2000 heritage activities from different continents of the world.

The Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival will take place from December 1 until January 27 at Al Wathba. Entry is free and the festival is open daily from 4pm until 10pm

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Al Maryah Island invites residents and visitors to join them in celebrating the 46th UAE National Day with an exciting line-up of events, including Ayyala and Harbeya dancers, live cooking stations serving up traditional dishes, and Emirati-inspired arts & crafts.

Taking place along the stunning waterfront promenade, there’ll also be a spectacular fireworks display at 9:00pm on December 2 that will illuminate the iconic Al Maryah Island skyline in the colours of the UAE flag

The annual National Day Colours event returns again this year to Yas Marina Circuit from 2pm until 9 pm on Saturday December 2. The jam packed program includes food trucks, live Oud players, Harbya dancers, falconry, and story time with Dr. Ahmed. Visitors can also explore the artistic side of the UAE’s rich heritage through Arabic calligraphy and henna painting, plus there’ll be a range of child-friendly activities to choose from with go karting, face painting, inflatable amusement rides and caricaturists. The evening’s festivities will culminate in a colourful National Day fireworks display that is set to bring the day to a dazzling finish.

Entry is free for all.

Many of the City’s malls will be hosting a range of family-friendly events to celebrate National Day this year, with themed activities and a widespread choice of entertainment. Shoppers can enjoy traditional performances, with ethnically inspired choreography, music and costumes, ornate henna painting, and Arabic ‘gahwa’ (coffee) with dates. You’ll also find bustling traditional markets and children’s workshops.

Participating malls include Al Wahda Mall, Dalma Mall, Bawadi Mall, Bawabat Al Shaq Mall, Yas Mall, and Mushriff Mall