UAE Invites Citizens and Residents to Shape the 55th National Day Celebrations

Citizens and residents from all seven emirates are being invited to share their stories of life in the UAE as the country prepares for its 55th National Day celebrations. Organisers of Eid Al Etihad – the annual occasion marking the formation of the Emirates on December 2, 1971 – are holding a series of workshops this month to recognise the contributions of the nation's multicultural society to its rise over the decades.

The community gatherings, scheduled to take place from September 10 to 24, seek to integrate the cherished memories and experiences of those who call the UAE home into this year's festivities. The cultural events will feature storytelling, crafts, and a variety of other creative activities.

“Eid Al Etihad is a celebration we all share, and our communities should have a place in shaping how we celebrate it,” said Eisa Alsubousi, Director of Strategic and Creative Affairs of the 55th Eid Al Etihad. “Through the Eid Al Etihad workshops, we’re bringing people together to share their ideas, get creative, and contribute in their own way.

“It’s about coming together, listening to one another, and seeing what we can create when we celebrate our UAE together. We’re excited to see the ideas and creations that come from these workshops, and to make them part of this year's celebration.”

The workshops will be held in Fujairah on September 10 and 11, Ras Al Khaimah on September 12, Sharjah on September 13, Ajman on September 14, Umm Al Quwain on September 15, Dubai on September 18 and 19, Al Ain on September 20 and 21, before concluding in Abu Dhabi on September 23 and 24. Individuals can register for the workshops until September 8, with applications reviewed and participants selected based on available capacity.

The UAE National Day, officially titled Eid Al Etihad, commemorates the formation of the country in 1971 when six emirates bound together, with Ras Al Khaimah joining as the seventh emirate the following year. UAE Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, led the efforts to unite the emirates and became the first president. A grand ceremony is staged each year as the centrepiece of the nationwide festivities, reflecting and honouring Arabic heritage and the theme of union.