Why UAE National Day is now called Eid Al Etihad: What it means for residents

‘or more than five decades, December 2 has been the UAE’s day of pride — a moment for national unity and celebration.

- Sahim Salim

The renaming of the UAE National Day marks a return to the authentic Arabic title that the nation's founders used to describe this day. — FILE PHOTO

But in recent years, you may have noticed a change in official posters, news articles and on TV or radio: what used to be called the UAE National Day is now known as Eid Al Etihad.

So why the shift — and why is it important for the country?

“Eid Al Etihad — the UAE’s national day — commemorates December 2, 1971, when the seven emirates united under the vision and leadership of the late founder Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

“It is far more than a holiday; it’s a celebration of the nation’s unity, shared identity, progress and collective future,” explained Eisa Alsubousi, director of strategic and creative affairs of the Eid Al Etihad Team, in an interview with Khaleej Times.

The phrase Eid Al Etihad literally means Celebration of the Union. It’s not a new name, Alsubousi explained — it’s actually a return to the authentic Arabic title that the nation’s founders used to describe this day.

“The celebration is officially called Eid Al Etihad. The term was revived ahead of last year’s celebration, reaffirming the nation’s true identity and placing the union of the emirates at the heart of the celebration, not as a new name, but as a return to the authentic title that reflects the spirit of unity and belonging.”

“By using Eid Al Etihad, the country speaks with one voice, aligning language and identity across institutions, partners and the public, while anchoring today’s celebrations in a heritage that stretches back centuries and a shared future under one flag.”

In other words, it’s about going back to where it all began, when the seven emirates unified and became one nation.

For Alsubousi, Eid Al Etihad isn’t just a name change; it’s a message.