Visitors can also enjoy traditional cultural performances, including Rawah and Harbiya.
Planning a family outing for the UAE’s 55th Eid Al Etihad? Global Village is preparing three days of celebrations featuring drone displays, traditional Emirati performances, local handicrafts and a range of familiar flavours.
From December 1 to 3, visitors can enjoy a programme showcasing the UAE’s heritage, with theatrical productions on the Main Stage, traditional dances and a special drone show illuminating the night sky on December 2 and 3.
Here’s what to expect.
A drone show lights up the sky
One of the main attractions will be a special Eid Al Etihad drone show on December 2 and 3. Families and friends can gather to watch the night sky light up as part of the National Day festivities.
The celebrations will begin earlier, with the UAE flag colours illuminating Global Village’s gates and main landmarks from November 27. Festive decorations across the destination will also provide plenty of colourful backdrops for family photographs.
Traditional Emirati performances take centre stage
Visitors will have several opportunities to experience Emirati culture through music, dance and theatre.
Running from December 1 to 3, ‘UAE Glory and Pride’ is a 30-minute theatrical operetta staged on the Main Stage. The production brings together music, theatrical performances and traditional dances to showcase the UAE’s maritime and desert heritage, its journey through the years and the unity of its people.
The show timings are:
- Tuesday, December 1: 7.50pm and 9.35pm
- Wednesday, December 2: 7.50pm and 10.45pm
- Thursday, December 3: 7.50pm and 9.25pm
Visitors can also watch traditional cultural performances, including Rawah, Harbiya, Nadbah and Nuaishat, offering a glimpse into the UAE’s customs and traditions.
Shop for Emirati crafts and local products
Those looking for a souvenir can explore the UAE Pavilion, 971 Community Pavilion and Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation for Humanitarian Works Pavilion, which will showcase Emirati products and special Eid Al Etihad collections.
Visitors can browse locally made creations and discover products from productive Emirati families, providing an opportunity to support homegrown businesses and local talent.
The Heritage Village, affiliated with the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Center, is another stop to add to the itinerary. Open throughout the season, it features traditional Emirati handicrafts, cultural displays and heritage-inspired shopping.
Make room for traditional Emirati food
No celebration is complete without something good to eat. Visitors can sample Emirati favourites, including freshly prepared ragag bread and luqaimat.
For a taste of traditional cuisine, Maqha Hamad at Heritage Village and the Emirati food kiosks are among the places to visit. Those coming in groups can also explore Global Village’s wider selection of international dining options, offering flavours from around the world.
When: December 1 to 3, 2026 (UAE flag decorations begin November 27)
Where: Global Village, Dubai
What to expect: Eid Al Etihad drone show on December 2 and 3, theatrical operetta, traditional Emirati performances, handicrafts, local products and Emirati food.
