UAE celebrates 47 years of landmark achievements

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If you’re looking for a December celebration that doesn’t have to do with the cold, the United Arab Emirates is celebrating their National Day on December 2.

The UAE may not be the oldest or youngest country in the world, but 47 years of unity between the seven emirates is always the best time for a celebration.

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Fireworks displays are expected across the country, including massive and impressive shows in Dubai. There are at least four different shows happening throughout Dubai on Sunday, lighting up the skies well into the night.

Cultural activities will be widespread around the city. Burj Park is hosting concerts by local and international musicians during the weekend; the park is also hosting four local poets for poetry sessions if the music isn’t your favourite activity.

The Dubai Global Village will be hosting a concert by Hamad Al Amri, who has had thousands celebrating the day for several years.

Learn about Emirati history and culture at Dubai’s numerous shopping centres. The Mall of the Emirates’ showcase will feature a play detailing the history of the UAE from sand to skyscrapers. City Centre Mirdif has an origami folding experience. A roaming band with traditional music will travel around six malls.

December 2, 1971 was the day that the ruler of six of the seven emirates (Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, and Umm al-Quwain) chose to launch a discussion of forming a nation. The last emirate, Ras Al Khaimah, joined the discussions in February the following year.

Unlike many national days in Asia and Africa, this isn’t a day to celebrate independence from the British (who withdrew in 1968) or other European countries but to celebrate the union of the Emirates.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has intended for this year’s celebrations to be about the colossal achievements that Dubai and the other emirates have made in the country’s history like the Dubai Metro and Burj Khalifa.

Dubai has had a tremendous impact on the success of the country and its greater region, and we’re looking forward to seeing how the UAE progresses in the future.