Dubai’s malls, neighbourhoods and skyline come alive for a festive season of unity, family and celebration from 26 November to 6 December
Registration is now open for the Eid Al Etihad concert with Balqees and Mohammed Al Shehhi at Dubai Festival City Mall on 1 and 2 December
Dubai, United Arab Emirates – 12 November 2026: As the UAE marks its 55th Eid Al Etihad, Dubai is getting ready to come together in a celebration of national pride, unity and togetherness. Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) today announced its Eid Al Etihad 2026 celebrations, inviting residents and visitors to join a festive season that brings the spirit of the UAE to life in every corner of the city.
From 26 November to 6 December, Dubai's neighbourhoods, malls and destinations will come alive with parades, live performances, family experiences, shopping offers and special dining menus, all marking five and a half decades of the nation's journey.
Suhaila Saqer Ghubash, Vice President – Festivals & Events at DFRE, said: “Eid Al Etihad is one of the most special occasions in the UAE calendar, bringing people together to celebrate the nation’s journey, heritage and shared values. As we mark 55 years of the Union, DFRE is proud to bring the celebrations to destinations across Dubai, with a programme that gives residents and visitors the chance to enjoy everything from Emirati cultural experiences and live entertainment to family activities, while celebrating the spirit of the UAE.”
At the centre of the programme are two evenings of free live music at Festival Bay, Dubai Festival City Mall, in honour of the UAE’s 55th Eid Al Etihad. On Tuesday, 1 December, Emirati singer Balqees, known for blending Gulf and Arabic sounds with modern pop, performs her own concert, followed on Wednesday, 2 December by Khaleeji singer-songwriter Mohammed Al Shehhi, whose playful vocals and youthful take on traditional sounds built a following on YouTube. Entry is free, with further details on ticket registration and booking links to be announced soon. Residents and visitors are encouraged to stay tuned for updates on how to secure their place.
Across the city, the celebrations will bring Emirati heritage and traditions into public places, with cultural performances, family workshops, heritage experiences and traditional bands at various destinations, including the Eid Al Etihad Village at City Walk, where a free concert by Yara on 2 December will add live music to the festivities. Paying tribute to the anniversary of the Union, spectacular new displays will illuminate the waterfront, inspired by the UAE flag and national symbols. Traditional Emirati dances, including Ayala and Harbiya, will also take centre stage, celebrating the UAE’s rich heritage and cultural identity.
Families are at the heart of the celebrations, in line with the Year of Family. Hands-on workshops, cultural experiences and activities for children and adults alike will take place across Dubai, from city malls to the great outdoors, giving families many ways to celebrate close to home.
Alongside the official programme, Dubai’s calendar will be full of concerts, theatre, sport and outdoor adventures throughout the festive period, giving residents and visitors even more ways to enjoy the city.