'Like preparing for a wedding': Some UAE families spend over Dh6,000 to celebrate Eid Al Etihad

Some Emirati families spend more than Dh6,000 to celebrate the UAE National Day (now called Eid Al Etihad), paying close attention to every detail — from entertainment and live shows to giveaways featuring the UAE flag. For these families, National Day is a cherished occasion, much like a wedding that deserves to be celebrated with joy and care.

Um Dalal, a 36-year-old Emirati in Dubai, said the cost of her family's celebrations usually exceed Dh6,000. This budget covers various components, including UAE-themed decorations, engaging activities, cash prizes, an Emirati-themed photo corner, and giveaways such as chocolates and perfumes.

"Small details like these giveaways can be quite expensive. For example, a tray of chocolates in the colours of the UAE flag can cost more than Dh600, while hospitality catering services can go more than Dh1,200," she said.

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"We don't celebrate on the 2nd of December," Um Dalal said. "With so many events happening that day, we prefer to choose another day within the same week. Preparations are already underway, with one family member responsible for hosting. At the same time, everyone contributes to the costs and organisation of the event."

Last year, Um Dalal's family celebrated at a temporary winter camp in the desert, embracing the spirit of UAE National Day with other campers, filling the air with national songs. They held contests for the best Emirati dress, performed traditional dances, and turned the spotlight to Emirati cooking.

"We put a lot of time into practising and rehearsing for this day to enjoy a luxurious National Day," she said, looking forward to this year's celebration which would include Emirati dresses designed for a red carpet competition.

‘It's like preparing for a wedding’

Many families would spend more than Dh6,000, too, as they would invite relatives and neighbour for the celebrations.

Sharjah-based Reem Hussain, 25, said the UAE National Day celebration is a lot like a wedding. "Preparing for Eid Al Etihad is similar to preparing for a wedding, involving henna, salon, purchasing new clothes that match the UAE's colours, and selecting gold that reflects the UAE's heritage."

Reem's aunt, who lives in Sharjah, is known for hosting large National Day celebrations. "In her neighbourhood, everyone knows each other, so when she plans the celebration, we always prepare enough food for all the neighbours who want to join us," Reem said.

Her aunt organises a big dinner buffet to ensure everyone is fed. She arranges prizes for various competitions while decorating her home. "I think it's costly, as we're talking about a number that greatly exceeds 70 people."

‘Creating a festive atmosphere’

The costs of celebrations may double, particularly for families who rent farms for their events and stay there for two days.

H. Al Blooshi shared her family's tradition of marking UAE National Day by renting a family farm. "We love to celebrate important occasions, and National Day is definitely one of them," she said.

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