TAARIQ HALIM (ABU DHABI)
Eid Al Etihad is being celebrated throughout Abu Dhabi with concerts, heritage showcases and family-friendly activities across cultural landmarks in the city.
Running all week, experience a variety of events and that celebrate the spirit of the union.
Here are nine things to see, do and discover on this, the 54th Eid Al Etihad:
Abu Dhabi Children's Library
Abu Dhabi Children's Library is celebrating Eid Al Etihad with a packed programme filled with bilingual workshops, storytelling sessions and themed activities running until 2 December. There will also be a special Eid Al Etihad show taking place each night at the Cultural Foundation's outdoor amphitheatre - ideal for the whole family.
Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa
On December 2, Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa hosts a warm community celebration featuring heritage-themed programming and family-friendly experiences in the heart of Al Ain's historic neighbourhood. With free entry, creative workshops and a horse parade in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Police, it's the perfect place for the whole family to celebrate.
Al Maqta'a
Hosted outdoors at Al Maqta'a Museum, this event taking place on December 2 at 9 pm, celebrating Eid Al Etihad through artistic performances blending heritage, creativity and Emirati values.
MASEERA at Manarat Al Saadiyat
MASEERA is a three-day showcase at Manarat Al Saadiyat inspired by Abu Dhabi's iconic car parades. From December 1 to 3, you can expect to see decorated vehicles, diverse food options and a local market at the showcase. What's more, a special lighting installation will be displayed, recreated from past Corniche decorations in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Municipality, capturing the nation's spirit of unity and pride.
Mother of the Nation Festival
The Mother of the Nation (MOTN) Festival brings its signature blend of entertainment, pop-ups, food and family activities to Al Ain and Al Dhafra as part of the holiday celebrations, offering a lively, festival-style day out for families and visitors of all ages running until December 2.
Manar Abu Dhabi
Explore a city-wide public art exhibition running all through December and take in captivating light installations and immersive works of art by local and international artists. The exhibition transforms iconic spaces and natural landscapes into open-air galleries, promising creativity at every turn. Discover the installations across stunning destinations, including Jubail Island, the Abu Dhabi Corniche, teamLab Phenomena, and Al Ain's Qattara and Jimi Oasis Trails.
Qasr Al Watan
To commemorate the 54th Eid Al Etihad, Qasr Al Watan presents a special programme that highlights the UAE's rich heritage and remarkable journey, taking place throughout the Palace. This year, you can enjoy a range of experiences, including musical performances, traditional Ayala dances, the Falcon Experience, and Emirati hospitality featuring a traditional majlis with dates and Arabic coffee, offering a truly memorable way to celebrate the country's rich history and remarkable achievements.
Al Ain Zoo
On December 2, the zoo will come alive with authentic Emirati traditions, featuring the beloved Ayala and Harbiya band Sultan Al Raisi, roaming entertainment and a variety of live stage shows hosted by Emirati influencer AlMazyood. Guests can immerse themselves in heritage-inspired décor and take part in creative workshops such as calligraphy, henna, pottery, embroidery, and clay pot making.
Guests can also make their way to the zoo's main stage, where they can enjoy a line-up of cultural performances, LED dancers, puppet shows and engaging acts that celebrate the spirit of the UAE
Zayed National Museum
From 3 December, families can enjoy the newly opened Zayed National Museum – the national museum of the UAE – following the opening celebrations on Eid Al Etihad. Book your tickets ahead of time and explore the history of the land and its people, inspired by the values of the nation's Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.