The key facts
- The 'National Month' in Dubai will run from 3 November to 2 December 2026
- The programme was launched by Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed, Deputy Ruler of Dubai
- It includes UAE Flag Day, the Flag Garden, the UAE parade and a short film competition
A month of celebrations in Dubai
Dubai has announced the launch of a 'National Month' — a month-long programme of events dedicated to the nation's heritage and culminating in the 55th Eid Al Etihad, the UAE's Union Day. The programme will run from 3 November to 2 December and will bring together government, semi-government and private organisations, as reported by The National. The launch was initiated by Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council.
What will be included in the programme
Among the key events are the celebration of UAE Flag Day, the Eid Al Etihad festivities, the 'Flag Garden' and the UAE parade. The Dubai Film and Games Commission, which is affiliated with the media council, is launching a short film competition called Stories of Our Determination: according to Brand Dubai director Shaima Al Suwaidi, it is intended to encourage creative talents to share stories about unity and determination. Additional events in partnership with organisations will be announced in the coming weeks, with details — dates and venues — to be revealed gradually.
Context and residents' participation
This is not the first initiative connected with the 55th national holiday: back in September, The National reported that UAE residents are invited to share their personal stories, which will form the basis of the holiday's design. In this way, the current programme builds on the previously announced approach of involving the population in shaping the content of the celebrations, rather than merely watching them. Al Suwaidi emphasised that the goal is to combine national pride with creative initiatives inspired by the history, identity and values of the UAE, and to ensure coordination of the programmes of participating organisations so that they complement one another.
