This post is about the UAE’s 49th National Day that was celebrated on December 2nd, 2020 at Corniche, Abu Dhabi.

December 2nd, is annually celebrated as UAE National Day. This day is celebrated to mark the birth of the United Arab Emirates (in 1971).

The British Protectorate Treaty expired on December 1, 1971. On the next day, December 2, the Emirates of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Fujairah, Ajman and Umm Al Quwain joined and formed the United Arab Emirates. The Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah joined in February 1972.

On 18 July 1971, the Rulers of six of the seven emirates that made up the Trucial States, (except Ras Al Khaimah), decided to form a union. This meeting made the following historical declaration: “The Supreme Council felicitates the people of the United Arab Emirates, as well as the Arab people, and our friends around the world, and declares the United Arab Emirates as an independent sovereign state being a part of the Arab World.” Courtesy: History – The Official Portal of the UAE Government

30th November is annually marked in the UAE as Commemoration Day, also known as Martyrs’ Day. The ADNOC Headquarters Building (Abu Dhabi), was lit up on that day and displayed the hashtag: #Proud_Of_Your_Sacrifices.

Normally, there would be an airshow in the afternoon, at Corniche, as part of the National Day Celebrations. But it wasn’t there in 2020.

In 2020, there was a paragliding show at Corniche, as part of the UAE’s 49th National Day Celebrations. It was the first time I had seen a paragliding show so close! Here are the photos:

If you zoom and see the photo below, you will notice that people are rushing near the place, were the paragliders are landing.

The Fireworks at Corniche are always amazing! Usually, the roads leading to Corniche would be full of cars, with people waiting to watch the fireworks and the airshow. There were fireworks also in the city side of Abu Dhabi, Al Reem Island, Al Wathba and in Al Ain, in the evening.

Now, time for the fireworks!

In the short video below, see how many cars are on the road, honking, at times. In the background of the fireworks area, you would notice the green laser lights (from Emirates Palace) and also the display on the ADNOC Building on its side.

Look at the boats and small ships in the sea, close to the fireworks.

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One thing that I like about fireworks is that they are so colourful and also a delight to watch!

Just for all of you to know, the photos and the video in and for this post were shot using an iPad Air (3rd Generation) and not through a professional camera.

I am excited to share the photos of my next post! It is going to be on New Year 2021! In that post, I will also share the photos of the decorations on the Corniche Road, and of course, the fireworks at Corniche!

SEE YOU IN THE NEXT POST!