Cities across the United Arab Emirates are staging extensive celebrations for the country’s 54th Eid Al Etihad on December 2, with government buildings, shopping malls, streets and public squares decorated with national flags, illuminated displays and festive adornments that reflect the spirit of national unity. The illuminations of various designs have created an extended panoramic spectacle across UAE cities, giving them a distinctive celebratory character that blends the nation’s authenticity with its modern identity. Interactive light shows in public spaces offer residents and visitors a vibrant visual experience throughout the festivities.
The organizing committee for the 54th Eid Al Etihad has announced events under the theme “United,” inviting all residents to participate in activities and community programs across the seven emirates. The official Eid Al Etihad ceremony will be broadcast at celebration sites nationwide, with the public able to watch the live transmission from Abu Dhabi in cinemas, on local television channels, and via the Eid Al Etihad YouTube channel and official website, ensuring widespread access to the commemorative events for all who call the UAE home.
The United Arab Emirates was formally proclaimed a sovereign nation on December 2, 1971, marking the culmination of years of visionary leadership following Britain’s declaration in 1968 of its intention to withdraw from the region. Before this, the area was known as the Trucial States, a collection of independent sheikhdoms under British protection since 1892. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum led discussions among the emirates about forming a union for mutual strength and protection, and on July 18, 1971, the rulers of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, and Fujairah agreed to form the new federation. Six emirates signed the Act of Union on December 2, 1971, with Ras Al Khaimah joining on February 10, 1972, completing the seven-emirate federation under Sheikh Zayed, who became the nation’s founding father and first president.
