11 spots to enjoy UAE National Day in Abu Dhabi

It’s that time of the year when we celebrate this beautiful nation and everything it gives us. Here’s where you can feel the festive spirit in the capital…

Deerfields Mall

Celebrate UAE National Day at Deerfields Mall, who will be hosting a thrilling line up of exciting events for families and shoppers. From December 1 to 3,  they will present the renowned Shabyiat Al Cartoon stage show to entertain families with a portrayal of Arab lives and traditions. You can also make your way down with your loved ones and celebrate the National Day spirit with an engaging Alayalah dance performance, which will begin a month of exciting winter activations for you to enjoy.

Deerfields Mall, Al Bahyah, Abu Dhabi, Mon to Thurs 10am to 10pm, Fri to Sun 10am to 12am. Tel: (0)2501 0826. @deerfieldsmall

Bawabat Al Sharq Mall

Bawabat Al Sharq Mall has a grand National Day celebration planned for you, including a performance by ‘Firqat Al Mazyood Al Harbiya’, face painting for your little ones, and a henna corner for the ladies from 4pm to 8pm. The festivities will culminate with a spectacular fireworks show and many more fun activities for the whole family. Don’t miss this one…

Bawabat Al Sharq, Bani Yas, Abu Dhabi, Sun to Thurs 10am to 10pm, Fri and Sat 10am to 12am, Tel: (0)2 503 1400. @bawababtalsharqmall

NYU Abu Dhabi

The 9th edition of Heyakah will be staged at NYU in Abu Dhabi, and will explore the meaning of ‘home’ in the company of poets, artists, storytellers and musicians belonging to diverse backgrounds. They will share their heritages and cultures, before a memorable evening of performances will feature names such as Basma Choir, Jad Al Kareem Tatou, Pulitzer Prize winning poet Gregory Pardlo and many more.

Heyakah the Story, Black Box, New York University Abu Dhabi Arts Centre, November 27, 7.30pm. Tel: (0)2 628 4000. @nyuadartscenter

Laduree

Laduree’s lovely National Day Afternoon Tea spread includes four petit fours, goat cheese tartlets, salmon bagels and more. You can elevate your dining experience with a fine selection of desserts, and from November 25, enjoy macarons with a print of the national colours.

Laduree, various locations, Abu Dhabi, November 7 to December 3, Dhs204.@ladureeuae

The Galleria Al Maryah Island

One of Abu Dhabi’s premier lifestyle destinations is set to present you with a series of entertainment options and prime views of this year’s fireworks display. You can also look forward to an educative experience at a photo exhibition depicting the nation’s rich heritage, as well as a police parade on December 2 at 4pm. Finally, witness a spectacular fireworks show on December 2 and 3 at 9pm, to cap off an exciting weekend celebrating UAE National Day.

The Galleria Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi, Sun to Thurs 10am to 10pm, Fri and Sat 10am to 12am. Tel: (0)2 493 7400. @galleriauae

Rosewood Abu Dhabi

We’re certain the December breeze is an appealing prospect to you, so while you’re on Al Maryah Island, grab a seat at the Rosewood Abu Dhabi’s unending selection of beautiful terraces, either at the Hidden Bar with its lively DJ performance on December 2, at Glo, where exquisite cocktails and bar bites await, or at Em Sherif Sea Cafe’s terrace. However, if a sensational dinner is what you seek, Aqua and Dai Pai Dong’s terraces are your best bet, which are all yours for a minimum spend. And if you’re just visiting, enjoy a luxury stay on site with up to 25 per cent off on rooms and suites, while you secure a prime spot to sit back, indulge and watch mesmerising colours illuminate the Abu Dhabi sky. Exciting times indeed.

Rosewood Abu Dhabi, Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi. @rosewoodabudhabi

Punjab Grill

With all the fun activities happening in Abu Dhabi on UAE National Day, you’ll need to get your eats in and stay refuelled. Enjoy Punjab Grill’s Chicken Tikka sampler and milk cake for Dhs52 each, curated specially for the National Day long weekend. Available December 1 to 3.

Punjab Grill, The Ritz-Carlton Grand Canal, Khor Al Maqta’a, Abu Dhabi, 12:00am to 12:00pm, 12:30pm to 12:00am daily. Tel: (0)449 9839. @punjabgrillabudhabi

Yas Mall

Yas Mall has a dazzling ten-day celebration planned in honour of the UAE’s 52nd National Day, with a vibrant array of cultural activities, beautiful National-Day themed decorations and live performances across the mall. Watch as Town Square Skylight and Mosaic are bathed in the colours of the UAE national flag, while inside, vibrant decorations will enhance the mall interiors and provide the perfect setting for capturing ‘gram-worthy moments with family and friends. From December 1 to 4, Emirati Coffee will welcome you with Arabic coffee and dates, before you enjoy captivating displays by the UAE military marching band as well as traditional Ayallah, Harbiya, and Al Yola performances and Oud musicians. For the little ones, a special Kidzania parade awaits.

Yas Mall, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Sun to Thurs 10am to 10pm, Fri and Sat 10am to midnight. Tel: 800 9276 255, @yasmallad

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi invites you to indulge in a three-day spectacular, with activities from 11.30am to 7pm, beginning with traditional Ayalla dancers at the Welcome Plaza. In the Green Zone, experience the finesse of skilled calligraphers exhibiting their artistry, talented face painters and henna artists, who will embellish guests with vibrant designs, echoing the park’s spirit of tradition and creativity.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Mon to Thurs 12pm to 8pm, Fri to Sun 11am to 8pm. Tel: 600 51115, @ferrariworldyasisland

Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas

You’re in for an exclusive upgrade at Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas during Union Day weekend, which includes breakfast and a choice of either lunch or dinner. With the added convenience of late checkout, elevate your long weekend retreat with the perfect blend of relaxation and wellness at Zen the Spa, including a Dhs100 spa voucher.

Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, Tel: (0)2 697 0000, @saadiyatrotana

Fairmont Bab Al Bahr