National Day Holiday in United Arab Emirates

When did the National Day Holiday in United Arab Emirates start?

The first recorded date of National Day Holiday in United Arab Emirates being celebrated on December 3 was in the year 1971.

About National Day Holiday in United Arab Emirates Holiday

As the National Day holiday approaches, the United Arab Emirates is brimming with anticipation and excitement. This significant event, held every year on December 2nd, commemorates the formation of the federation of seven emirates and celebrates the country's culture, heritage, and progress.

For travelers seeking a unique and immersive holiday destination, the United Arab Emirates during the National Day celebrations is an unmissable experience. From vibrant parades and traditional dance performances to spectacular firework displays and cultural exhibitions, there is something for everyone to enjoy and be enriched by. The country's rich diversity is on full display during this holiday, showcasing the unity and pride of its people.

Beyond the festivities, the United Arab Emirates offers travelers a luxurious and modern setting, infused with age-old traditions and customs. With its impressive skyline and iconic landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the UAE is a destination that combines innovation and heritage in a seamless blend. For the avid shopper, Dubai's world-renowned malls and souks offer an endless variety of goods, while food lovers will be delighted by the mouth-watering Emirati cuisine.

As the National Day holiday draws nearer, visitors from all over the world are drawn to the United Arab Emirates to partake in the celebrations and revel in the beauty of this fascinating country. So pack your bags and get ready to experience the vibrant and welcoming culture of the UAE during this special time of year.

National Day Holiday in United Arab Emirates: A Festive Celebration of Dubai’s Rich Heritage and Culture

As a cultural commentator and travel writer, I have been fortunate enough to witness various festivals and holidays around the world. However, none have intrigued me as much as the National Day holiday in United Arab Emirates. A vibrant celebration that brings together the diverse communities of this beautiful country, the National Day holiday holds a special place in the hearts of the Emiratis. In this article, I will delve into the history, significance, and traditions of this holiday, along with some interesting facts and trivia. So, buckle up and join me as we explore the magic of the National Day holiday in United Arab Emirates.

Key Takeaways:

• The National Day holiday in United Arab Emirates is a celebration of the country’s rich heritage and culture.
• It marks the unification of the seven emirates and the formation of the United Arab Emirates in 1971.
• The holiday is celebrated on December 2nd every year and is a public holiday in the country.
• The celebrations include parades, traditional dances, fireworks, and cultural events.
• The holiday is a time to reflect and appreciate the country’s achievements and progress.

History and Origin:

The National Day holiday in United Arab Emirates has its roots in the country’s history and struggle for independence. Before the formation of the United Arab Emirates in 1971, the region was divided into seven emirates, each ruled by a separate ruler. However, in the late 1950s, the British Empire started to withdraw from the Arabian Gulf, leading to a power vacuum in the region. The ruling Sheikhs of the seven emirates saw this as an opportunity to unite and form a federation, and after negotiations and discussions, on December 2nd, 1971, the United Arab Emirates was officially formed, with Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan as its first president.

Since then, December 2nd has been celebrated as the National Day holiday in United Arab Emirates. It is a symbol of unity and represents the country’s vision of progress and prosperity.

Significance and Meaning:

The National Day holiday is not just a commemoration of a historical event, but it also holds a significant cultural and social value for the people of United Arab Emirates. It is a time to come together and celebrate the country’s heritage, traditions, and progress. The holiday also serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the founding fathers of the nation in shaping the UAE into what it is today. It symbolizes the spirit of patriotism and national unity among the Emiratis and showcases their pride in their country and their culture.

Symbols and Decorations:

As with any holiday, symbols and decorations play a crucial role in the celebrations of the National Day holiday in United Arab Emirates. The most prominent symbol of the holiday is the UAE flag, with its four colors representing different elements of the country’s history and culture. Red symbolizes unity, green represents prosperity, white represents peace, and black represents the country’s oil-rich resources.

During the holiday, the streets, buildings, and houses are adorned with flags, flowers, and lights in the country’s national colors. The iconic Burj Khalifa in Dubai is also lit up in the national colors, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Traditions and Celebrations:

The National Day holiday celebrations in United Arab Emirates are a blend of old traditions and modern-day festivities. The day starts with a grand parade showcasing the country’s military might, with a display of colorful uniforms, military vehicles, and traditional camel cavalry. The parade is followed by cultural performances, including traditional dances and music, showcasing the country’s rich heritage and culture. The day ends with spectacular firework displays and light shows, attracting locals and tourists alike.

Several events and activities take place throughout the week, leading up to the holiday, including traditional markets, exhibitions, and art shows. The streets are adorned with festive decorations, and the air is filled with the aroma of traditional food and the sounds of traditional music.

Food and Cuisine:

No celebration is complete without delicious food, and the National Day holiday in United Arab Emirates is no exception. Traditional Emirati cuisine plays a prominent role during the celebrations, with dishes like Machboos (spiced rice with meat or fish), Shawarma (grilled meat wrap), and Luqaimat (sweet dumplings) being must-tries. Emirati coffee, with its distinct flavor and cardamom aroma, is also an essential part of the holiday celebrations.

If you wish to try your hand at cooking some Emirati dishes, here’s a simple recipe for Machboos:

Recipe for Machboos (Serves 4):

• 2 cups long-grain basmati rice
• 400g boneless chicken or lamb, cut into cubes
• 2 onions, chopped
• 5 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon baharat (Arabic spice mix)
• 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
• 1 tablespoon dried lime powder (loomi)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Soak the rice in water for 10-15 minutes and then drain.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onions and garlic until soft.
3. Add the chicken or lamb and cook until brown.
4. Add the tomatoes, tomato paste, baharat, turmeric, and dried lime powder, and cook for a few minutes.
5. Add 4 cups of water and bring it to a boil.
6. Add the soaked rice and season with salt and pepper.
7. Cover the pot and let it cook on low heat for about 20 minutes.
8. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing the rice with a fork.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!

Attire and Costumes:

The traditional attire worn during the National Day holiday in United Arab Emirates is symbolic of the country’s culture and heritage. Men usually wear a long, loose-fitting garment called a kandura, while women wear a long dress called an abaya. Both these garments come in various colors and styles, with traditional Emirati embroidery and designs. Many locals also wear traditional headpieces like the ghutra and the shemagh.

During the holiday celebrations, it is not uncommon to see people dressed in the national colors, with some even wearing traditional Emirati costumes.

Music and Songs:

The sound of music and traditional songs fills the air during the National Day holiday in United Arab Emirates. Traditional instruments like the oud, the tabla, and the darbuka are played during cultural performances and events. One popular traditional song associated with the holiday is the “Eidha Al Menhali” by Emirati singer Eidha Al Menhali, which celebrates the country’s heritage and culture.

Geographical Spread:

The National Day holiday in United Arab Emirates is celebrated across the country, with the most prominent celebrations taking place in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. However, the holiday is not limited to the UAE, with Emirati expats in other countries also celebrating the occasion with equal enthusiasm and pride.

Each emirate also has its unique way of celebrating the holiday, with events and activities reflecting their cultural identities. For example, Abu Dhabi hosts a grand firework display at the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, while in Dubai, traditional boats called dhows are decorated with lights and paraded along the Dubai Water Canal.

Modern-Day Observations:

As the United Arab Emirates continues to grow and evolve, so do the celebrations of the National Day holiday. In recent years, the country has incorporated modern elements in the holiday celebrations, such as laser light shows and drone displays. The holiday has also become an occasion for charitable activities and community events, promoting social cohesion and giving back to society.

Interesting Facts and Trivia:

• The United Arab Emirates is home to 197 nationalities, with the National Day holiday being celebrated by people from different cultures and backgrounds.
• The official UAE mascot for the National Day holiday is called “Faris”, meaning knight in Arabic.
• The UAE holds the Guinness World Record for the largest human flag, made up of over 30,000 people, on the National Day holiday in 2013.
• The holiday was formerly known as “Farq Al Watani” (Independence Day) before being officially renamed to National Day in 2010.

Holiday Wishes:

• May the spirit of unity and progress continue to shine on the United Arab Emirates on this National Day holiday.
• Wishing all Emiratis a joyous and festive National Day holiday.
• May the UAE’s heritage and culture be celebrated and cherished on this special day.
• Wishing you all the blessings and happiness of the National Day holiday.
• May the spirit of patriotism and national pride be felt by all on this National Day holiday.

Holiday Messages:

• Happy National Day to all my Emirati friends and family.
• May the unification of the seven emirates continue to inspire us on this National Day holiday.
• Sending my warmest wishes and greetings on this special National Day holiday.
• Happy National Day to the land of progress and prosperity, the United Arab Emirates.
• Wishing you all a happy and memorable National Day holiday with your loved ones.

Holiday Quotes:

• “Unity is strength, and when there is teamwork and collaboration, wonderful things can be achieved.” – Mattie Stepanek
• “A nation’s culture resides in the hearts and in the souls of its people.” – Mahatma Gandhi
• “There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish.” – Michelle Obama
• “No matter how many buildings, foundations, schools and hospitals we build, or how many bridges we raise, all these are material entities. The real spirit behind progress is the human spirit.” – Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan
• “The National Day holiday is a time to remember the past and celebrate the present, paving the way for a better future.” – Unknown

Other Popular Holiday Info:

The National Day holiday in United Arab Emirates is not just a national celebration, but it also serves as a significant tourism opportunity, attracting visitors from around the world. The week-long celebrations include various cultural festivals, events, and activities, showcasing the country’s modern and traditional side. Visitors can also experience the Emirati hospitality and sample delicious food and traditional crafts during the holiday celebrations.

The National Day holiday is also a time for Emiratis to express their appreciation and gratitude towards the modern leaders of the country. The streets and buildings are adorned with large portraits and images of the founding fathers and the current leaders, reflecting the country’s reverence and respect towards them.

The UAE flag is an essential symbol of the National Day holiday, and it is considered disrespectful to use it in an inappropriate manner or display it without proper care and attention.

FAQ:

Q: Why is the National Day holiday celebrated on December 2nd?
A: December 2nd marks the formation of the United Arab Emirates in 1971, bringing together the seven emirates. It is considered a significant historical event in the country’s history, making it an appropriate date for the holiday celebrations.

Q: How do people celebrate the National Day holiday in United Arab Emirates?
A: The celebrations include parades, cultural performances, fireworks, traditional food, and community events. The holiday is also an occasion for Emiratis to reflect on the country’s achievements and progress.

Q: Is the National Day holiday only celebrated in the United Arab Emirates?
A: No, the holiday is celebrated by Emiratis all over the world, and in countries with a significant Emirati expat population, there are usually community events and celebrations organized.

Q: How can tourists participate in the National Day holiday celebrations in United Arab Emirates?
A: Tourists can take part in various cultural events and festivals held during the holiday and experience the traditional Emirati hospitality. They can also watch the grand parade and fireworks displays, and try traditional Emirati food and beverages.

Conclusion:

The National Day holiday in United Arab Emirates is an expression of the country’s culture, heritage, and progress. It not only celebrates the unification of the seven emirates but also showcases the diversity and unity of the Emirati people. It is a time to come together and celebrate the achievements and progress of the nation, and appreciate the sacrifices made by the founding fathers.

How to Say "National Day Holiday in United Arab Emirates" In Different Languages?