Why the UAE National Day Happens In Winter. And Why Sweet Gifts Win Every Time

by Alexandra Mansilla

Why the UAE National Day Happens In Winter. And Why Sweet Gifts Win Every Time

12 Nov 2025

So, answering the first question — why do we celebrate the UAE National Day in winter?

Because 54 years ago, on 2 December 1971, the rulers of the Emirates signed the unification agreement that gave birth to the United Arab Emirates.

Before that, the Emirates — Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, and Fujairah — existed separately. Then, in 1972, Ras Al Khaimah joined the federation, completing the union of all seven Emirates.

Another name for the UAE National Day is Eid Al Etihad, which literally means Celebration of the Union. And that instantly brings another name to mind — Etihad Museum.

Photo: Saj Shafique

It is directly connected to the celebration. The museum stands on the very site where the UAE was officially formed on 2 December 1971. It is a 25,000 m² space dedicated to the story of the nation’s founding — from the vision of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan to the spirit of unity that shaped the Emirates into one country.

Right next to the museum is the Union House, the original building where the signing took place. It has been carefully preserved, and standing there, you can almost feel that historic moment — when seven Emirates became one nation.

UAE National Day (Eid Al Etihad) is a day that celebrates unity, vision, and the incredible journey of the UAE — from that single signature in 1971 to the modern nation we see today.

And while it is a day to look back, it is also a moment to celebrate everything the UAE stands for today — creativity, culture, and togetherness. So if you are thinking of how to celebrate (or what to gift), here are a few ideas (sweet ones!) that capture that same spirit.

Ideas for gifts

Was it obvious that the first one would be dates? Of course it was. Bateel has just unveiled its new Festive Assortment — and it is every bit as elegant as you would expect. Each box can be personalised with handcrafted truffles, single-origin chocolates, and organic dates grown on Bateel’s own farms.

Next up — a pudding with the UAE flag on top. You can get it at ALAYA, and it is called the Alaya Pudding Madlouka. Think layers of toasted bread, caramel, and milk cream — sweet, warm, and a little nostalgic. It is on the menu for one day only, so definitely save the date.

Mirzam Chocolate, an incredible local brand, has created a special collection too — from elegant boxes of bite-sized chocolates to tall towers with seven tins inside, each featuring a different recipe inspired by the flavours of the Emirates.

Source: mirzam.com

Of course, your gift doesn’t have to come in the colours of the UAE flag. You can always show up with a box of beautiful bons!

Instagram: @beurrebakery.ae

And obviously, something sweet needs something to sip. Start with the beautiful tea boxes from Feel Good Tea Co.® — a small, easy gift that looks as good as it tastes.

Instagram: @feelgoodteaco

Or go for coffee, because no celebration starts without it. Try Julith’s drip bags — single-serve, beautifully packed, and guaranteed to make mornings better.

Instagram: @julith.coffee

Celebrating the UAE isn’t just about flags and fireworks. It is about togetherness — about sharing food, music, and small moments that remind us why we call this place home. Whether it is a date, a piece of chocolate, or a cup of coffee, every gesture counts.

by Alexandra Mansilla