UAE main holiday changes its name

The United Arab Emirates has changed the name of the main bank holiday – this year the celebrations in honour of the 53rd anniversary of the formation of the state will be called ‘Eid Al Etihad’.

In this way, the organisers emphasise the significance of the ‘union’ (Etihad) and the unification of the Emirates into a single confederation on 2 December 1971. This theme is central to the expression of the country’s ‘identity’, symbolising heritage, unity, strength and national pride.

On December 2 each year, the organising committee puts on a grand show, usually attended by rulers from all regions of the UAE. This year, Eid Al Etihad zones will be set up in all seven emirates.

In December 2024, working residents of the United Arab Emirates can look forward to a four-day weekend – the last in 2024.

The weekend will be granted in conjunction with UAE National Day, which falls on Monday, 2 December and Tuesday, 3 December. Thus, those who holiday on Saturday and Sunday will get four consecutive days off.

As is known, on 2 December 1971, the rulers of the six emirates, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah and Ajman, signed a union agreement to create a single state. This important day is a public holiday and is celebrated with various events and festivities across the country.

Entertainment shows are organised in all emirates on the occasion. Streets, buildings, city parks and cars throughout the country are decorated with balloons and flags. One of the main traditions of the holiday is the flag-raising ceremony.

The dates of the holidays are announced in advance so that people can plan their travels. In addition to time off on public holidays, working UAE residents are also entitled to a 24-day paid holiday every year.

Source: Khaleej Times