Tourists landing in Dubai this month will notice something new the moment they reach the immigration counters. As the UAE marks its 54th Eid Al Etihad, visitors arriving at Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport will receive a limited-edition Dubai passport stamp created specially for the occasion.
The initiative comes from the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in collaboration with Brand Dubai, adding a warm and symbolic welcome for the thousands flying into the emirate during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
Dubai Airports and the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai welcome all passengers arriving at the emirate’s airports with a commemorative ‘Zayed and Rashid’ passport stamp that captures the spirit of the 54th Eid Al Etihad celebrations, as part of the… pic.twitter.com/K0tJlAgFZ7
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) December 3, 2025
A Stamp Inspired by the UAE’s Founding Leaders
The commemorative design, named the ‘Zayed and Rashid’ stamp, pays tribute to the country’s founding visionaries — the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum. Their leadership laid the groundwork for the UAE’s transformation into a modern, globally connected nation.
Brand Dubai designed the stamp using visual elements inspired by both leaders, blending national symbolism with a look that reflects the early years of the union. For visitors, it becomes a small but meaningful keepsake of the UAE’s story and its journey since 1971.
Officials described the stamp as one of this year’s key celebratory features. It aligns closely with the broader theme of “Spirit of the Union,” which continues to shape how the UAE celebrates its National Day across all seven emirates.
A stamp plays an important role
Eid Al Etihad — known globally as UAE National Day — falls on December 2 but is widely celebrated throughout the month. Dubai, in particular, rolls out a packed calendar of events, from fireworks to cultural shows to citywide installations.
The passport stamp serves both practical and cultural purposes. It creates a memorable welcome at the airport, especially with Dubai seeing high footfall every December.
Residents know the energy that builds in the city during National Month — malls turn red, green, black and white, hotels run themed promotions, and attractions launch special events. For many visitors, the stamp becomes their first touchpoint with that atmosphere. Those interested in more festive attractions can check our feature on winter pop-ups and seasonal events across Dubai.
A Busy Travel Season Gets a Cultural Touch
December is always one of Dubai’s busiest months for tourism. With the weather cooling, the long weekend drawing crowds, and the festive season starting, travellers from around the world flow into the emirate. This year, the passport stamp adds a thoughtful moment to the arrival experience.
According to officials, this initiative reflects Dubai’s aim to offer arrivals a smooth, welcoming entry while also showcasing what the National Day means to the country. The idea is simple: allow every visitor to take home a small piece of Emirati identity, even if they’re only staying for a short time.
The stamp also aligns with a wider set of public initiatives introduced during National Month. Many government departments, community groups, and local brands collaborate to mark the union’s anniversary, making the celebrations feel citywide rather than limited to major attractions.
More Than a Stamp, it’s A Symbol of Dubai’s Character
Dubai has a way of turning small details into memorable moments, whether it’s themed airport installations, citywide National Day décor, or the seasonal events that locals look forward to each year. This passport stamp fits right into that tradition.
It’s simple, visual, and represents familiar UAE values: unity, pride, and hospitality.
Visitors who collect passport stamps often treat them like souvenirs. This edition, available only during the National Day season, is likely to become one of those unique additions people remember long after leaving the country.
For Dubai, it’s another way to tell its story to the world — not through large-scale displays, but through the everyday touchpoints travellers encounter the moment they arrive.
What Visitors Should Know
- Available Only This Month: The stamp is issued throughout December as part of the 54th Eid Al Etihad celebrations.
- Where It’s Issued: All arrivals at Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC).
- Who Gets It: Every passenger arriving in the emirate, including tourists and returning residents.
- Why It’s Special: It features the founding leaders whose partnership shaped the UAE’s formation in 1971.
Those landing in Dubai during this time will notice other seasonal touches — National Day flags across main roads, themed shows at cultural sites, and festive markets that pop up across the city. All of these elements collectively reflect why December holds a special place in the UAE calendar.
Dubai’s limited-edition Dubai passport stamp is more than a travel formality — it’s a symbolic welcome that reflects the UAE’s deep-rooted pride in its history. As visitors enter the emirate during National Month, this small gesture connects them to the story of the union and its enduring legacy.
Read More: Dubai Visitors To Receive a Limited-Edition Passport Stamp This Month
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