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As the United Arab Emirates gears up to celebrate its 53rd National Day, the nation has officially designated a new name to the annual event.
Now to be coined as “Eid Al Etihad”, which translates to Union Day, the event, as always, will mark the symbolic formation of the seven emirates – Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah.
While many expected this to be another holiday to add to the list, Eid Al Etihad is simply a fresh new title for the celebration.
Officially posted on Instagram by the organising committee, under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Abdulla bin Zayed Al Nahyan as Chairman, with Her Highness Sheikha Mariam bint Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan as Vice Chair, the annual event emphasises these pillars; sustainability, the UAE’s guardians, and being a land of endless possibilities.
Particularly a homage to the UAE’s sustainability efforts, Eid Al Ethiad will pay respect to the first seeds of sustainability rooted in the country’s heritage and legacy. This further expands on the UAE’s practice of conscious celebrations and lifestyle.
Already marking the excitement ahead of Eid Al Etihad, Eisa Alsubousi, the director of Strategic and Creative Affairs of the Organising Committee of the 53rd Eid Al Etihad Celebration, said to Khaleej Times, “We are delighted to invite everyone to share in the joy of this historic moment, as we celebrate the unification of the seven emirates.”
Further elaborating on the events, “To support these festivities, we have created comprehensive guides to inspire and assist in preparations to celebrate sustainably. We encourage government entities, private companies, schools, and families to join in marking this significant celebration.”
All in all, the event will mark and honour the UAE’s identity, unity, strength, and national pride.
A Four-Day Weekend
With the dates of the celebration in mind, Eid Al Etihad which falls on December 2 to 3, 2024 (Monday and Tuesday) means both private and public sectors can enjoy a full four-day weekend with respect to the national event.
What is Eid Al Etihad?
Formerly known as the UAE National Day, Eid Al Etihad celebrates the unification of the seven emirates on December 2, 1971.
Falling on the first weekend in December, it pays respects to the UAE’s ‘Father of the Nation’, the late Sheikh Zayed and the development of the country over the last five decades.
Dazzling fireworks and elaborate parades aside, Commemoration Day lands a day before it. Set to honour the fallen soldiers who served this nation in military and humanitarian missions, the first day of December is one of seldom pride.
