From customary fireworks to cultural culinary tours, there is something for everyone to mark the special occasion in Dubai
Haven’t planned out your Union Day holidays yet? Don’t worry, Team Yalla has you covered, when it comes to everything from the best places to check out the fireworks to F&B deals and more!
Over the three days, there will be a host of activities taking place across the city encompassing the usual traditional practices and, of course, the skies over Dubai will burst into light with the various fireworks displays.
It is the perfect time of year to gather with loved ones and spend time with friends and family. Here, we have put together a list of some Union Day-inspired things to do.
Global Village
1-3 December
Renowned for its multicultural theme, Global Village is set to celebrate the 52nd UAE Union Day until 3 December and promises to offer spectacular cultural performances, along with themed activities and entertainment under the UAE’s spirit of unity.
Visitors can expect an exciting array of entertainment across the park, Emirati cultural shows, pop-up kiosks, henna art and interactions with the iconic falcon. Furthermore, visitors will have the opportunity to get their hands on unique UAE Union Day souvenirs.
For further information visit, globalvillage.ae
The Green Planet
1-3 December
The Green Planet Dubai is inviting you to celebrate the 52nd UAE Union Day at its outdoor ‘Nature Park’ with a series of engaging eco-friendly activities and exhibits from Friday, 1 to Sunday, 3 December 2023 that embrace the spirit of the nation while promoting education and environmental awareness.
You and your kids are welcome to adorn yourself with beautiful, nature-themed henna art and enjoy arts and crafts activities, such as colouring, painting, origami and bracelet-making sessions. Furthermore, families are welcome to take memorable pictures for their little ones with The Green Planet Dubai’s friendly animal mascots that will greet all young fans.
For more information, visit thegreenplanetdubai.com
City Walk Concerts
2-3 December
There are a host of Arabic themed concerts taking place along the City Walk over the course of the weekend. Proceedings kick off on 2 December with Abel Ebrahim captivating audiences with his soulful melodies from 8.30 pm.
Then on 3 December from 6.30pm, Emirati soul singer Argam Al Abri will be performing fusing old school soul with neo-soul beats and lyrics rooted in positivity. Later that night Lebanese songwriter and singer Yamine El Hage, from the Voice of Arabia Season 5, will grace the stage.
For further information, visit citywalk.ae
Culinary Tours
30 November to 3 December
What better way to immerse yourself in some local heritage than by embarking on a culinary and cultural adventure in old Dubai with the second edition of the UAE Union Day Tour?
Inspired by Frying Pan Adventures and Rove Hotels, the historic creek side tour celebrates the diverse flavours and stories of Dubai’s communities. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the authentic heart of the city in the least touristy way possible.
For further information, visit fryingpanadventures.com
Fireworks Displays
1-3 December
Naturally, no Union Day celebrations in Dubai would be complete without taking in some of the amazing fireworks and light shows that take place throughout the city. You can avail of many of the city’s best vantage points at Global Village, the Fountain Show, Burj Khalifa, Bluewaters, JBR and many more.
In true Emirati fashion, the displays will form the highlight of the celebrations over the weekend and provide the most spectacular of spectacles for all those who witness them.
Traditional Activities and Parades
1-3 December
In many different locations throughout the city there will be traditional and cultural celebrations taking place. You can catch local Emirati bands in malls and shopping destinations citywide from 1-3 December.
Performances will commence on 1 December at Dubai Festival City Mall, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Me’aisem, Bluewaters, The Outlet Village, City Centre Deira, City Walk and Mall of the Emirates. Check them out and soak up some local Emirati culture!
Dubai 7s
1-3 December
Although not strictly a Union Day celebration, the Dubai Sevens stadium is set to come alive over the weekend with the latest installment of their iconic rugby weekend and will welcome visitors in their thousands.
To mark the occasion, British artists Becky Hill and MK are performing on Saturday, 2 December. These two performers have sprung to prominence in recent times and are sure to ‘cause a stir amongst chart fans in the region.
For further information, visit tickets.dubairugby7s.com
LEGOLAND
LEGOLAND in Dubai proudly celebrates the UAE Union Day and embraces this Year of Sustainability with a series of fun family events and awesome activities, boasting a jam-packed schedule for you and your friends.
There are many activities including ‘Sustainability Build,’ a ‘UAE Union Day Scavenger Hunt’ and a ‘2023 Sustainability Pledge’ while you can also watch the ‘Eliminating Waste and Pollution’ video in Fun Zone, which will be both fun and educational for the kids.
And don’t forget to claim your exclusive 52nd UAE Union Day souvenir LEGO brick when you exit the Park!
For further information, visit legoland.com/dubai
Expo City
The upcoming COP28 coincides with the celebrations, and Expo City Dubai has pulled out all stops for the official ceremony scheduled for 2 December. The event will weave an inspiring narrative of unity and collective action as it highlights the UAE’s sustainability journey from its union in 1971 to the present day.
Starting at the roots of Emirati culture and heritage, the Union Day show will illustrate the legacy of the ancestors and the relationship between tradition and technology, reflecting the shared commitment to nurturing and preserving our interconnected world.
For more information, visit UnionDay.ae
Dubai Festival City Mall
1 to 4 December
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Dubai Festival City Mall is gearing up to commemorate the 52nd anniversary of the United Arab Emirates from the 1 to 4 of December, boasting a lineup of spectacular performances at The Bay by Social as it will be the stage for a series of live shows, cultural displays and roaming entertainment, creating an immersive atmosphere like no other.
From traditional music and dance performances to contemporary acts that showcase the diverse talents within the UAE, the celebrations at The Bay by Social invites family and friends to gather at this vibrant location to witness the richness of Emirati culture.
For further information, visit dubaifestivalcitymall.com/home
For further information about events taking place in Dubai, visit Yalla Dubai
