Join the Party! The UAE Celebrates its 44th Birthday!
photo credit: Gulf News
Lamya Tawfik
Residents and visitors to the UAE will be spoilt for choice when it comes to attending the Spirit of the Union events, commemorating the UAE’s 44th National Day. The flag-draped buildings and the malls adorned in the colors of the flag have already signaled the start of an exciting celebration period.
Here are some of the can’t-miss events happening in Abu Dhabi and Dubai*. Keep an eye out for the spectacular fireworks too which will light up the UAE skies and will accompany most evening events.
photo credit: IANS
ABUDHABI
Enjoy the air shows of the Al Fursan Aerobatics on December 1 from 3 to 6 pm at the Abu Dhabi Corniche.
For sailboat lovers an Al Bawanish dhow race will take place at the Heritage Village (Cornice Breakwater) from 12 pm to 5 pm on December 1 and a 40ft National Day Traditional Dhow Race will take place in the same place the next day from 8 am to 5 pm.
On December 2, at the Zayed Sports City, a musical, artistic and cultural event will be held. Attendance is restricted to UAE residents and citizens only.
The UAE armed forces is holding an aerial, naval and ground show at the Abu Dhabi Corniche and on December 3, the official car parade will take place at the Yas Marina Circuit.
The Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center, the Abu Dhabi Corniche and public gardens will also hold a parade and exhibition featuring 44 artistic floats that represent the national day.
photo credit: Mercato Mall, Khaleej Times
DUBAI
Celebrations are being organized for December 1st (6 pm) at the Dubai Design District Waterfront. The evening event will include musical performances and fireworks.
Malls and shopping centers around the city have also prepared an extensive celebration calendar. The Dubai Mall is holding a Dubai police band performance on November 30 and Kids parades on December 1 and 2. Mall of the Emirates will stage a National Day Fashion Parade on December 1, 2 and 3.
The Deira City Center, Me’aisem City Center and the Mirdiff City Center, Dubai Festival City and Ibn Battuta Mall will also organize cultural and traditional activities as well as stage shows to commemorate the event.
The Beach (JBR) is planning a delightful music-synchronized laser show, which will be held every hour from 7:30 to 10:30 pm from December 2 to 5. In collaboration with the Dubai International Horse Fair, a Horse Show will also be held at The Beach on National Day at 2, 4 and 6 pm.
The Box Park will host a UAE-inspired Graffiti art event and shows with LED dancers. The little ones can also make their own flags and enjoy some drumming sessions at Mercato Mall.
* This is not an exhaustive list.
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