UAE gets a new eid as National Day officially renamed 'Eid Al Etihad'

The UAE’s National Day celebrations have officially been renamed ‘Eid Al Etihad’, the organising committee announced yesterday, celebrating the notion of union (etihad) and commemorating the Gulf state’s unification on 2 December, 1971. According to the Khaleej Times, the theme is central to the country’s “identity, symbolising heritage, unity, strength, and national pride.” The upcoming eid, or festival, will fall on 2 and 3 December, giving residents a four-day weekend.

واقترب الموعد..🇦🇪#الإمارات53 #عيد_الاتحاد #الإمارات_تستاهل pic.twitter.com/e7Og5aOuSG

— Eid Al Etihad 53 (@EidAlEtihad) October 21, 2024

This year’s 53rd ‘Eid Al Etihad’ celebrations will focus on sustainability and collaboration, with events across designated zones in all seven Emirates. Eisa Alsubousi, director of Strategic and Creative Affairs, said: “We are delighted to invite everyone to share in the joy of this historic moment as we celebrate the unification of the seven Emirates. To support these festivities, we have created comprehensive guides to inspire and assist in preparations to celebrate sustainably.”

“For example, we can repurpose existing decorations to celebrate Eid Al Etihad… whether you’re at home, school, or work, there’s always a way to contribute consciously and make a positive impact,” organisers noted.

Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, chairman of the Sharjah Union Day Celebrations Committee, explained to Gulf News that “The anniversary of the Emirates’ union (Eid Al Itihad) is a day to renew our pledge of loyalty to the nation and its leadership.”

“It is also an opportunity to reaffirm our ongoing commitment to strengthening the UAE’s standing as a leading global destination for tourism, investment, and living, as well as a beacon of progress and prosperity.”

READ: Sudan envoy: UAE fuelling conflict in Sudan