For over fifty years, December 2 has marked UAE’s pride day, a time for unity and festivity. Recently, you might have noticed a shift in the terminology on posters, media, and broadcasts: what was once called UAE National Day is now referred to as Eid Al Etihad.
Why the change, and why is it significant?
“Eid Al Etihad, the UAE’s national day, celebrates December 2, 1971, when the seven emirates united under the visionary leadership of the late founder Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
“It transcends a holiday; it’s a tribute to national unity, identity, and future,” explained Eisa Alsubousi, Director of Strategic and Creative Affairs of the Eid Al Etihad Team, in an interview with Khaleej Times.
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The term Eid Al Etihad translates to Celebration of the Union. It’s not a new name, Alsubousi explained, but a return to the original Arabic name used by the nation’s founders.
“The celebration is officially called Eid Al Etihad (Arabic: عيد الاتحاد). The term was revived last year, reaffirming the nation’s identity and focusing on the emirates’ union, not as a new name but as a return to the original title reflecting unity and belonging.”
“By using Eid Al Etihad, the country speaks with one voice, aligning language and identity across institutions and the public, grounding today’s celebrations in a heritage that spans centuries and a shared future.”
In essence, it’s about returning to the roots, when the seven emirates united as one nation.
More than a holiday
For Alsubousi, Eid Al Etihad isn’t just a name change; it’s a message.
“Eid Al Etihad embodies the spirit of unity that shaped the UAE. By literally meaning ‘celebration of the union’, it reminds us that unity is not just history but the force propelling progress. It highlights every individual’s contribution, showing that collective progress builds a future of shared pride.”
This year’s celebrations are led by the 54th Eid Al Etihad Team, chaired by Sheikh Abdulla bin Zayed Al Nahyan and vice-chaired by Sheikha Mariam bint Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
“The team was established to oversee this year’s Eid Al Etihad. It was formed under the leadership of Sheikh Abdulla bin Zayed Al Nahyan, with Sheikha Mariam bint Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan as Vice Chair.
“The team’s mission is to organize the official Eid Al Etihad celebration, aiming to reinforce and commemorate this significant occasion for everyone in the UAE. Through strategic collaborations and cultural programs nationwide, the celebration reflects collective pride and gratitude.”
Where tradition meets modernity
Each year, the celebration emphasizes the values of joy, hospitality, and belonging central to Emirati culture. “Eid Al Etihad evokes traditions of joy, gathering, and sharing rooted in Emirati culture, encouraging practices that unite families and communities. It serves as a reminder that the nation’s strength lies in its unity as diverse communities unite under one flag.”
Yet, the celebration style has evolved. “The spirit of unity, pride, and shared traditions remains, but the expression broadens: wider participation, more creative initiatives, and new platforms for all generations and communities to engage. The essence endures, honoring the values defining this national occasion.”
“Today’s celebrations mirror an adaptive spirit deeply connected to the land and its people. As the nation transitions from desert roots to a global hub, celebrations blend tradition and modernity, showing how progress and heritage coexist.”
Inclusivity is central to Eid Al Etihad. Creative initiatives enable artists, designers, and businesses to contribute.
“Initiatives ensure the celebration resonates with everyone. Notably, the Merchandise Open Call invited artists, designers, creative businesses, and manufacturers to design concepts featuring the Eid Al Etihad brand, extending participation beyond the ceremony and reinforcing the occasion’s inclusive spirit.”
A unified brand
The rebranding is not just linguistic but visual. Every logo, color, and asset for the 54th celebration follows a unified design system linking the seven emirates.
“Yes, the Eid Al Etihad brand guidelines are at www.EidAlEtihad.ae.
“They provide a unified visual language for this year’s theme, United, allowing celebration partners across the emirates to express local identity. The guidelines include logo dynamics, color and typography specs, co-branding rules, and ready-to-use templates (posters, digital screens, social assets, and on-site applications).”
Looking ahead, Alsubousi noted that Eid Al Etihad reflects not just the UAE’s past but its future vision.
“Celebrating unity mirrors the UAE’s vision to preserve our shared heritage while advancing toward a future of innovation, sustainability, and global leadership, ensuring pride in our identity inspires future generations to uphold the values shaping the nation.”
This message, he added, is particularly empowering for the youth. “Eid Al Etihad inspires young generations by connecting them to the Founding Fathers’ legacy and the values that built this nation: unity, generosity, service, and care for humanity’s safety and prosperity.
It reminds them they are carriers of our cultural values, turning ideals into action through school programs, creative initiatives, and digital participation, ensuring the Union’s spirit endures in how they study, work, and serve communities.”
