No random marches or gatherings are allowed; do not perform stunts or obstruct traffic — these are just a few of the guidelines outlined by the UAE's Ministry of Interior for 53rd National Day celebrations.
As UAE residents prepare to celebrate Eid Al Etihad on December 2 and enjoy the final long weekend of the year, authorities are urging the public to adhere to all necessary rules and guidelines. These measures are in place to ensure a safe, orderly, and enjoyable celebration for all while preventing any risks or disruptions.
As you head out for the festivities or look for activities to enjoy with the whole family, stay mindful of the guidelines that have been issued. Below are the 14 guidelines residents must follow, most related to traffic order and vehicle regulations.
1. Avoid organising or participating in random marches and gatherings.
2. Adhere to all traffic regulations and follow instructions issued by police officers.
3. Refrain from using party sprays by drivers, passengers, or pedestrians.
4. Ensure the vehicle's front and rear license plates remain visible; do not alter the vehicle's colour or darken/tint the front windows.
5. Do not place stickers, signs, or logos of any kind on the vehicle unless they are specifically for Eid Al Etihad and comply with official guidelines and conditions.
6. Do not exceed the permitted number of passengers in a vehicle, and do not let anyone out through the windows or the sunroof of your car.
7. Avoid making unauthorised modifications to the vehicle or adding unlicensed features that cause noise or obstruct vision.
8. Do not obstruct traffic, block roads for emergency vehicles (ambulance, civil defence, police patrols), or perform stunts on internal or external roads.
9. Do not perform stunts on internal or external roads.
10. Do not cover the vehicle's side, front, or rear windows with stickers, and avoid using sunshades that block visibility.
11. Only wear scarves specifically designed for Eid Al Etihad celebrations.
12. Raise only the flag of the United Arab Emirates; flags of other countries are not permitted.
13. Limit the volume of songs and chants to those officially related to Eid Al Etihad celebrations.
14. Decoration shops and drivers are strictly prohibited from affixing stickers or flags other than those approved for Eid Al Etihad, specifically the UAE flag or related stickers.
The UAE marks the National Day — now called Eid Al Etihad — on December 2 every year to celebrate the unification of the Emirates in 1971. The country turns 53 this year.
Several events and shows will be lined up across the Emirates as residents get a four-day weekend due to the public holidays on Monday, December 2 and Tuesday, December 3.
Meanwhile, Dubai will be celebrating the occasion over the course of a six-day period from November 28 to December 3 with shopping deals, acts by acrobats, musical performances, fireworks, and a range of culinary experiences.
Whereas in Sharjah, entry to all public museums in Sharjah city, Kalba, and Khorfakkan will be free on December 1 and 2. Sharjah's celebration programme will showcase a range of activities across city's cultural and tourist hotspots, offering something for everyone to enjoy.
The official Eid Al Etihad celebrations — usually attended by the country's Rulers and leaders — will be held amid the "breathtaking natural landscapes" of Al Ain.
Umm Al Quwain is lining up 5-day festivities with fireworks, parades, magic shows and more. Eid Al Etihad will be celebrated through multiple shows at Al Khor Waterfront from Friday, November 29, to Tuesday, December 3.
Fujairah has also announced several days of celebrations for Eid Al Etihad. The events will take place across multiple locations in the emirate, including Dibba Al Fujairah, Al Tawyeen, Al Qarya, Masafi, Al Seiji, Wum, Murbah, Awhala, and other areas, ensuring widespread participation on the country's cherished holiday.
