The United Arab Emirates celebrates its 54th National Day (Eid Al Etihad) on 2 December 2025. While Dubai and Abu Dhabi host large fireworks shows and laser displays, Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) focuses on community‑driven events that highlight the emirate’s maritime heritage and traditional culture. Below is a guide to all the programmes, locations and timings for National Day 2025 in RAK.
Main Celebrations along Al Qawasim Corniche
Maritime Parade — 1 December 2025
- What: A Maritime Parade featuring decorated boats, coast‑guard vessels and dhows. Residents line the creek to watch the colourful procession and listen to traditional Al Ayala drum performances. Roads along the corniche are partially closed during the parade, so visitors should plan to arrive early and use alternative routes.
- Time: Starts at 3 PM.
- Location: Ras Al Khaimah Creek / Al Qawasim Corniche. Boats sail past the corniche, giving spectators waterfront views. Google Map Location Link.
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Corniche Parades and Cultural Programmes — 1 December 2025
Following the maritime parade, the corniche turns into a family festival:
- Time: 4 PM – 11 PM.
- Location: Al Qawasim Corniche (between the creek and Flagpole Plaza).
- Activities: Marching bands, traditional dance troupes, heritage workshops, food kiosks and children’s games create a carnival atmosphere. People can explore stalls selling Emirati handicrafts and sample dishes such as machboos and luqaimat. These events celebrate RAK’s fishing and pearl‑diving history.
- Road closures: Sections of the corniche are closed to traffic during parades; drivers are advised to use alternative routes.
Fireworks at Al Qawasim Corniche — Evening of 2 December 2025
RAK’s 2025 celebrations include a fireworks display over the creek. According to The Sandy Times, the Heritage Village hosts cultural activities and “major fireworks light up the skies over the Al Qawasim Corniche”. While exact timing has not been confirmed in official news reports, displays in other emirates generally begin around 9 PM. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early along the waterfront for unobstructed views.
Live Broadcast of the Union Day Ceremony
The UAE’s official Union Day ceremony takes place in Abu Dhabi and is broadcast nationwide. RAK residents can watch the live ceremony on large screens at Al Qawasim Corniche and Flagpole Plaza. The ceremony is expected to start in the early evening of 2 December (previous ceremonies began around 6 PM). Screens will show a theatrical performance telling the story of the UAE and a moment of reflection for the nation’s martyrs. Admission is free.
Additional Events in Ras Al Khaimah
Ripe Market Pop‑Up at Mina Al Arab
- Dates: 29 November – 2 December 2025.
- Time: 12 PM – 8 PM.
- Location: Lagoon Walk, Mina Al Arab.
- Highlights: Over forty local vendors sell organic produce, crafts, jewellery and homeware. The market features live performances, street food, carnival games and children’s workshops. Entry is free.
Heritage Village and Traditional Activities
RAK’s Heritage Village (adjacent to the National Museum) opens throughout the long weekend. The venue showcases pearl‑diving artefacts, falconry displays, handicraft workshops and story‑telling sessions. The Sandy Times notes that “RAK’s Heritage Village comes alive with cultural activities” during National Day. Visitors can watch live Al Ayala and Al Harbiya dances, try traditional food, and browse exhibits explaining the emirate’s history. Performances typically run from 4 PM until late evening.
Resort and Family Events
While the corniche hosts the main public events, several resorts on Al Marjan Island and in the desert organise special packages for the long weekend. For example, the Ripe Market at Mina Al Arab is complemented by National‑Day‑themed dinners at the SO/ Ras Al Khaimah resort and events at luxury hotels such as the Ritz‑Carlton Al Wadi Desert (details may vary; check individual resort websites). These venues offer Emirati buffets, kids’ workshops and fireworks‑viewing dinners.
Read More: National Day Du 54GB Free Internet
Summary of Key Events
| Date & Time | Programme | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Dec 2025 – 3 PM | Maritime Parade – decorated boats sail along the creek; spectators enjoy music and flag‑draped vessels. | Ras Al Khaimah Creek / Al Qawasim Corniche |
| 1 Dec 2025 – 4 PM – 11 PM | Parades & Cultural Showcases – marching bands, heritage workshops, Emirati crafts and food stalls. | Al Qawasim Corniche |
| 2 Dec 2025 – Evening (approx. 9 PM) | Fireworks Display – major fireworks over the creek; gather along the corniche for the best views. | Al Qawasim Corniche |
| 2 Dec 2025 – Early evening | Live Union Day Ceremony Broadcast – watch the national ceremony on big screens. | Al Qawasim Corniche & Flagpole Plaza |
| 29 Nov – 2 Dec 2025 – 12 PM – 8 PM | Ripe Market Pop‑Up – farmers’ market with local crafts, performances, carnival games and kids’ workshops. | Lagoon Walk, Mina Al Arab |
| Throughout 29 Nov – 2 Dec 2025 | Heritage Village Activities – traditional dances, falconry, handicrafts and storytelling. | Heritage Village, near RAK National Museum |
Practical Tips for Visitors
- Transport: Expect road closures along the corniche during parades. If possible, use public transport or park at nearby shopping centres and walk.
- Arrive early: Fireworks attract large crowds. Arriving an hour before the display ensures a good spot along the waterfront.
- Dress comfortably: Bring national colours (red, green, white and black) and comfortable shoes, as you may walk along the corniche.
- Stay hydrated: Although December is cooler, the afternoon parades take place under the sun.
In summary
Ras Al Khaimah’s National Day 2025 programme centres on community spirit and heritage. On 1 December, the maritime parade and corniche celebrations allow residents to celebrate on the waterfront, while 2 December brings fireworks and the live broadcast of the Union Day ceremony. Complementary events like the Ripe Market and Heritage Village activities extend the festivities through the long weekend. Whether you’re watching boats parade through the creek, browsing artisanal stalls at Mina Al Arab or enjoying fireworks against the backdrop of the mountains, Ras Al Khaimah offers a warm and authentic way to celebrate the UAE’s 54th anniversary.
