As the United Arab Emirates commemorates its 54th Union Day, residents nationwide are embracing the occasion through meaningful fashion expressions that honor Emirati cultural heritage. The celebration, now formally known as Eid Al Etihad, has evolved into a profound demonstration of national pride that transcends ethnic backgrounds and unites communities through shared appreciation for UAE’s journey.
Rima Zahran, a Spanish-Palestinian jewellery designer married to an Emirati, reflects on two decades of Union Day celebrations: “My first National Day experience over twenty years ago revealed an incredible energy and pride I had never witnessed before. For my Emirati family, it represents unity, pride, and collective togetherness.” Zahran, who has fully embraced the cultural significance of the occasion, now describes feeling “genuinely patriotic” and part of a larger community that celebrates both national progress and personal inspiration.
The sartorial dimension of Union Day has emerged as a significant aspect of the celebrations, with residents carefully selecting outfits that pay homage to Emirati traditions while incorporating contemporary elements. Zahran emphasizes her annual tradition of sourcing jalabiyas from local UAE-based designers, preferring modern interpretations featuring intricate embroidery over crystal embellishments. She completes her ensemble with jewellery crafted within the Emirates, expressing particular admiration for traditional wedding pieces reimagined with diamonds.
Emirati designer Yasmin Al Mulla echoes this sentiment, describing December 2nd as evoking “waves of pride, gratitude, and warmth” that inform her fashion choices. Her ideal Union Day outfit blends transitional elegance with subtle cultural references, combining clean lines, soft tones, and delicate jewellery that honors heritage while maintaining contemporary sophistication. For Al Mulla, the essence of Eid Al Etihad remains rooted in familial bonds and shared pride, creating enduring memories through simple, heartfelt moments with loved ones.
Beyond fashion, the holiday manifests through family gatherings and spectacular firework displays, collectively forming an annual tradition that strengthens national identity and cross-cultural appreciation among the UAE’s diverse population.