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The National Day of any nation is a day of pride and joy. It is a day when a nation’s strength is celebrated by the unity of its people, and serves as an important reminder of a shared national identity. For nations that have known the yoke of colonial rule, it is a day where first independence is remembered. The United Arab Emirates, just like most other nations, has a national day. Back in the day, it was the British Protectorate Treaties that ruled this nation.

On the 2nd of December 1971, the UAE for the first time was formally nationalized from these treaties and from this point on, the nation began functioning under its own jurisdiction, and eventually unified the different Emirates in to one modern-day nation. Today, this day is celebrated every year with all the grandeur that the UAE is famously known for. If you are in town during the month of December do not miss the spectacle of the National Day celebrations that usually takes place in Abu Dhabi, the capital emirate of this intriguing Middle Eastern country.

The UAE is the most cosmopolitan nation in the Middle East. But behind the stylish façade and the glittering cityscape, there lies a deep rooted tradition and culture; one that is born out of faith and spirituality; a place where the age-old customs of the desert dwellers still hold sway. From within this proud tradition emerge the elements of dance, music and color; the best of which can be witnessed on the National Day celebrations. Large arenas are chosen for the event decorated in grand style.

Children are dressed in traditional attire; boys in the thoub and Kardah and the girls in the colorful maxis. The Youlah is the main performance of the event and is followed by a number of other folkloric dances. In Abu Dhabi, celebrations usually take place in the city’s Corniche and people arrive at the site in cars decorated with the nation’s flags. The UAE’s flags are everywhere at this time of the year; in shops, houses, and even painted on the faces of proud citizens. With this attitude of camaraderie and unity, the spirit of the nation is most certainly thoroughly celebrated.

If you are seeking accommodation during this festive season, the UAE is adorned with plenty of fantastic places to enjoy. While holidaying here, consider staying at the Millennium & Copthorne Hotels Middle East. Boasting gracious hospitality and elegant surrounds, these luxury UAE hotels are known to be some of the finest of all the Middle East hotels.

Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and hopes to visit them all someday.

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