Dubai Celebrates 54th Eid Al Etihad with Record-Breaking Events, Entertainment, and Tourism Boost – A Citywide Showcase of UAE’s Heritage and Unity: Check It Out Now

Published on December 14, 2025

In December 2025, Dubai once again showcased its status as a world-class destination for cultural celebrations, as it concluded an unforgettable 54th Eid Al Etihad. The three-day event brought together hundreds of thousands of residents and visitors to experience a series of spectacular citywide celebrations that celebrated the unity and heritage of the UAE. With over 577 events, activations, and exclusive offers, Dubai not only cemented its position as a hub for global festivities but also significantly boosted its tourism industry, making this year’s edition one of the most memorable.

Organized by the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), the celebrations commemorated the 54th anniversary of the UAE’s union, featuring a dynamic mix of cultural performances, musical showcases, high-energy parades, shopping festivals, and culinary delights. The events also provided a powerful tribute to the UAE’s remarkable journey while engaging the more than 200 nationalities that call Dubai home. In just three days, Dubai transformed into a stage of national pride and joy, with activities that appealed to every taste and age group.

A Citywide Spectacle of National Pride

The 54th Eid Al Etihad was a dazzling display of Dubai’s commitment to uniting its diverse communities while celebrating the UAE’s rich heritage. From the glittering skies above the city to the bustling streets filled with energy, the event became a true reflection of Dubai’s modern identity — a city that thrives on innovation, creativity, and inclusivity. The celebrations featured extraordinary fireworks displays, iconic performances, and unique shopping experiences that delighted both locals and tourists.

The spectacle included massive crowds gathering at key spots such as Souk Al Seef, Dubai Festival City Mall, Hatta, Global Village, Bluewaters, and The Beach JBR, where fireworks lit up the sky, creating some of the most photographed moments of the holiday. These fireworks, each strategically placed to highlight key landmarks and areas, showcased Dubai’s artistic and cultural prowess, further elevating the city’s appeal as a top global destination for spectacular celebrations.

Aerial Skydive: A Thrilling Tribute to the UAE’s Unity

One of the standout moments of this year’s Eid celebrations was the aerial skydive performance. A team of ten elite skydivers, led by Emirati athlete Ahmed Al Shehhi, performed an exhilarating freefall formation while carrying the UAE flag. The sky-high tribute symbolized the UAE’s unity, strength, and resilience, as the skydivers created a mesmerizing visual that became one of the most iconic tributes of the weekend. The breathtaking display added an element of thrill and excitement, reminding all who witnessed it of the indomitable spirit of the UAE.

This skydiving performance, alongside other jaw-dropping events, emphasized Dubai’s reputation as a city that continually innovates and elevates its celebrations to new heights. The aerial tribute not only captivated locals but also attracted tourists, further solidifying Dubai’s position as a leading cultural tourism destination.

Parades, Concerts, and Surprises: A Multitude of Entertainment

The Eid Al Etihad Parade returned to City Walk, where over 1,000 participants from various community groups and organizations, including Dubai Police and students from KHDA, came together in a vibrant, colorful procession. The streets were filled with rhythmic performances, vibrant costumes, and celebratory cheers, all reflecting the unity and pride of the UAE’s people. The parade was a powerful visual reminder of the national unity that underpins the UAE’s success and development.

In addition to the parade, Dubai hosted sold-out concerts featuring regional superstars such as Balqees, Diana Haddad, and Shamma Hamdan. These performances were held at iconic locations such as Dubai Festival City Mall and City Walk, with music lovers enjoying the chance to witness unforgettable live shows. Fans also had the chance to see surprise celebrity appearances from international motorsports icons, creating a thrilling layer of star power that kept crowds buzzing throughout the celebrations.

For those seeking something more unique, Dubai also delivered a variety of unmissable events. The Al Wasl Season and Festival of Cake provided family-friendly fun, while cultural exhibitions such as Titanic: A Voyage Through Time and Poetry of Birds delighted art enthusiasts. Meanwhile, sporting events like the IBA Mens World Boxing Championships and Junior Run Club showcased Dubai’s diverse cultural and sporting landscape, offering something for every type of visitor.

Exclusive Shopping Offers: A Retail Extravaganza

One of the most anticipated elements of the Eid Al Etihad celebrations was the 3 Day Super Sale, which delivered substantial savings across 500 top brands and 2,000 outlets. Shoppers flocked to Dubai’s malls, eager to take advantage of the exclusive offers that were available during the event. Early indicators revealed double-digit growth in consumer spending and footfall across participating retailers in categories ranging from fashion and beauty to electronics and home goods.

Malls such as City Centre Mirdif, Ibn Battuta Mall, Dubai Festival City Mall, Mercato Mall, and Nad Al Sheba Mall transformed into festive hubs, hosting cultural showcases, family activations, and photo-worthy displays. The retail offers not only attracted local shoppers but also acted as a major draw for international tourists, making Dubai an even more attractive destination for tourism and shopping.

Community Celebrations: Hatta and Al Warfa Festivals

In addition to the main city celebrations, Dubai’s more rural areas also hosted unique events that highlighted the UAE’s cultural heritage. Hatta provided a stunning backdrop for one of the UAE’s most scenic Eid celebrations, complete with fireworks, folk performances, and beautifully illuminated streets. The event in Hatta offered visitors a more traditional experience, combining cultural performances with the natural beauty of the mountains.

Meanwhile, the Al Warfa Festival brought a community-focused celebration to the forefront, offering families a chance to enjoy Emirati crafts, cultural shows, and local food stalls. These open-air celebrations immersed visitors in the UAE’s heritage, offering a more intimate experience compared to the larger, citywide events. With cultural performances such as Al Ayyala and Al Harbiya and competitions for all ages, the festival helped foster a sense of community and national pride among residents and tourists alike.

Culinary Delights: The Dubai Burger

One of the most innovative aspects of this year’s Eid celebrations was the debut of the Dubai Burger, a culinary tribute to the UAE’s food culture. Top restaurants and burger joints across the city created limited-edition burgers inspired by Emirati ingredients, which sold out quickly due to high demand. The Dubai Burger became a symbol of the UAE’s commitment to celebrating its culinary heritage while offering an exciting experience for food enthusiasts. This delicious addition to the celebrations showcased Dubai’s flair for integrating local flavors into global trends.

Supporting Local Talent: A Spotlight on Young Artists

As part of the Eid Al Etihad festivities, Dubai also celebrated the creativity of its young residents. In collaboration with the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), a student art competition was held, encouraging schoolchildren to express their understanding of the UAE’s union and heritage through art. The competition featured a range of mediums, from murals and short films to poetry and spoken-word performances, with participants showcasing their creativity and vision for the future of the UAE.

This emphasis on youth creativity aligns with Dubai’s broader commitment to fostering innovation and artistic expression. The showcase not only honored the past but also encouraged young artists to contribute to the UAE’s vibrant cultural landscape, which is essential for the future of tourism and cultural exchange in the region.

Conclusion: A Celebratory Weekend that Enhanced Dubai’s Global Appeal

The 54th Eid Al Etihad celebrations in Dubai were a true testament to the city’s ability to bring together diverse communities, highlight its cultural richness, and position itself as a premier destination for tourism and entertainment. With over 577 events, fireworks, concerts, and exclusive shopping offers, the celebrations were a resounding success, drawing thousands of visitors from across the globe. Through events that celebrate heritage, showcase innovation, and create unforgettable experiences, Dubai has once again proved that it is a global leader in hosting world-class festivals that resonate with people from all walks of life.

As Dubai continues to grow and evolve, events like the Eid Al Etihad celebrations are pivotal in strengthening the city’s position as a top global tourism destination, creating lasting memories for both residents and visitors. The integration of cultural traditions with modern attractions, combined with its dynamic tourism sector, ensures that Dubai remains a city that attracts and inspires millions each year.