UAE National Day: Celebration Guidelines Explained

UAE National Day: Forbidden Activities and Celebratory Rules during Eid Al Etihad

This year marks the 54th celebration of the UAE National Day, also known as Eid Al Etihad, commemorating the anniversary of the country's founding. The long weekend offers not only relaxation but also shared experiences for many, with the officially announced four-day paid holiday encouraging more people to actively participate in events.

However, authorities emphasize that communal celebration should not come at the expense of public order, traffic safety, or the peace of others. The Ministry of Interior has issued clear guidelines and highlighted several behaviors that are expressly prohibited during the national holiday.

Why are rules important during the holiday?

Order and safety are fundamental characteristics of the UAE. The festive period, especially Eid Al Etihad, naturally means increased public traffic, a rise in events, and an enthusiastic population. However, all this can also pose dangers if the rules are ignored.

To ensure that residents can enjoy a peaceful long weekend, authorities have sent a clear message: those who violate holiday guidelines can expect fines and even vehicle confiscation.

11 Forbidden Activities during Eid Al Etihad

The Ministry of Interior has identified 11 behaviors that are strictly prohibited during the national holiday. These are:

1. Participating in unauthorized car parades

Any spontaneous convoy or mass gathering without permission is illegal and punishable.

2. Obstructing traffic or blocking public areas

Deliberately disrupting traffic—whether by parking, with vehicles, or on foot—carries serious consequences.

3. Stunts on the roadway

Drifting, sudden braking, tire burning, and similar dangerous driving styles are not only prohibited but life-threatening.

4. Leaning out of windows or sunroofs

This is especially popular among younger people but poses a serious accident risk.

5. Carrying too many passengers

Exceeding a vehicle's maximum capacity is not only against the rules but increases the risk of accidents.

6. Covering windows, obscuring license plates

For transparency and identifiability, windows must be clear, and license plates must be easily readable.

7. Unauthorized vehicle modifications, loud exhausts

Excessively loud or illegally modified vehicles create disturbances and are often hazardous.

8. Wearing scarves or symbols not related to the holiday

Only attire related to Eid Al Etihad is permitted to avoid sending misleading messages.

9. Displaying flags of other countries

The holiday is solely about UAE unity, so only the national flag's usage is allowed.

10. Spray painting on vehicles

Decorating vehicles with spray paint is not allowed, especially if the material can end up on the roadway.

11. Listening to music too loudly

Only music related to Eid Al Etihad is permitted, and it must be at an acceptable volume.

Flag Display Rules

One of the most widespread and touching practices during the national holiday is displaying the UAE flag on homes, vehicles, and public areas. However, strict rules also apply to flag usage. Authorities have issued 15 different regulations to ensure flag display remains fitting and respectful.

Key considerations:

Flags must be displayed in a clean and intact condition.

Proportions must adhere to the official standard.

Flags must never touch the ground or be used in a demeaning way with other objects.

Only official flag versions may be used; distorted colors or graphics are not permitted.

If displayed at night, the flag must be properly illuminated.

Respect for the flag is one of the most critical expectations of citizens and residents—violating this is considered a serious offense.

How to Celebrate Safely and Dignifiedly

Authorities do not wish to dampen the festive spirit—in fact, the opposite. The goal is for Eid Al Etihad to be a collective experience that fittingly commemorates the country's history, development, and unity. The following activities are safe and supported for everyone:

Displaying the UAE flag officially

Participating in permitted community events

Decorating cars with official, holiday-related stickers

Wearing festive attire emphasizing national colors

Attending cultural programs and musical performances

Family gatherings and picnics

Summary

The UAE National Day is not just a long weekend but a deeply-rooted social event that speaks of the country's history and identity. Safe, lawful, and respectful celebration ensures that everyone can partake in it—regardless of age, origin, or religious background.

It is crucial that the celebration focuses not only on outward appearances but also its values: unity, loyalty, and the hope for a common future, which truly connect the UAE's populace. This is best expressed by adhering to the rules and showing respect to others.

(Source of the article: Ministry of Interior (MOI) guidelines.)