Dubai Celebrates Unity in Al Etihad Parade

Al Etihad Parade: Celebration and Discipline on Dubai Streets for UAE National Day

On December 2nd, Dubai will once again showcase what it's like when a nation wholeheartedly celebrates unity and togetherness. The Al Etihad Parade, organized for the 54th National Day of the United Arab Emirates, is not just a spectacular event but a powerful expression of community and national identity. The organizers are once again placing special emphasis on safety and organization so that every participant can experience the parade safely and memorably.

The Venue and Timing of the Al Etihad Parade

The gathering point for the parade is Dubai Maritime City, from where the procession departs at 3:00 PM. The route progresses along Jumeirah Road, from the intersection at Union House to the Burj Al Arab. The spectacular procession takes place between 4:00 PM and 5:30 PM, allowing spectators to enjoy the sight of vehicles decorated with national colors waving flags, cultural displays, and the vibrant energy of community celebration for an hour and a half.

This event is not merely a spectacular road parade: it is much more of a community experience that strengthens the feeling of national unity while demonstrating the solidarity of Dubai's diverse society.

Community Involvement and Flag Distribution

The event involves more than 30 volunteers organized by the Community Development Authority, who will distribute 1,000 UAE flags among participants and spectators. This gesture further enhances the sense of unity and offers the audience an opportunity to actively participate in the celebration.

Safety and Guidelines: What Everyone Should Know

The organizers and the Dubai Events Security Committee have clearly stated: the event can only be safe and memorable if all participants adhere to the set guidelines. Observing road traffic rules, vehicle regulations, and general behavioral norms are of utmost importance.

Key rules include that participants may only join authorized and officially announced parades. Organizing or conducting any improvised, unauthorized processions or performing stunts on public roads is prohibited. Occupants of vehicles are not allowed to disembark from a moving vehicle or lean out of windows or sunroofs.

The windows of vehicles must not be covered with opaque films, stickers, or any other tools that limit visibility. The use of festive sprays, paint sprays, and other aerosol devices is strictly prohibited.

Overloading and Illegal Modifications

Vehicles cannot carry more passengers than allowed, and it is forbidden to transport anyone in the trunk, flatbed, or seats not designated for this purpose. Unauthorized modifications affecting safety (e.g., extremely loud exhausts, lowered chassis, color modifications) are also penalized by authorities. Vehicles are not allowed to play excessively loud music, and concealing or altering license plates is forbidden.

Serious Consequences for Violators

Those who violate the above rules can expect severe consequences. According to Article 30, penalties may include:

A fine between 10,000 and 100,000 dirhams

Vehicle confiscation for more than 90 days

24 black points on the driver's license

Suspension of the driver's license

These sanctions aim to ensure that all participants behave responsibly and do not endanger others' safety.

Traffic Provision and Police Presence

During the parade, police patrol units will be deployed along the entire route to ensure smooth traffic flow and prevent disturbances. Drivers are urged to obey all traffic signals, refrain from overtaking outside designated lanes, and not drive onto the emergency lane.

Follow Official Channels

The organizers ask everyone to follow event updates only on official channels and to refrain from spreading misleading or unchecked information. This helps maintain the dignity of the event and ensures that everyone can participate in the common celebration safely and in good spirits.

Concluding Thoughts

The Al Etihad Parade is not just a spectacular event but one of the most important symbols of living national identity. During this period, Dubai repeatedly proves that it is capable of harmoniously combining tradition and modernity while exemplifying community participation and disciplined celebration to the world.

This year's parade will also be memorable—provided everyone follows the rules, respects others, and truly places unity at the forefront. Let's celebrate together with responsibility, pride, and hope for the future.

(The article is based on a statement from the Government of Dubai Media Office.)