The UAE is preparing for the 54th Eid Al Etihad, and with a four-day long weekend ahead, excitement is already building across the country. Families are planning road trips, public celebrations are being set up, and communities are decorating their neighbourhoods in UAE colours. To make sure everyone enjoys the holiday safely, the Ministry of Interior (MOI) has announced a series of rules outlining what people can and cannot do during the National Day weekend.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi, in particular, see a surge in traffic every year around this time. Popular spots like Jumeirah Beach Road, Al Wasl, Abu Dhabi Corniche, and Sharjah’s cultural districts get especially busy as crowds gather for fireworks, parades and family activities. With this expected movement, authorities have placed a strong emphasis on safety, responsible celebrations and road discipline.
A reminder is always needed
National Day is one of the busiest weekends of the year, and road activity increases significantly. Authorities noted that some previous celebrations involved risky behaviour — overcrowded vehicles, sudden road gatherings and people hanging out of car windows. These moments often stem from good intentions but can quickly escalate into safety hazards.
Dubai Police and other local forces have dealt with situations where vehicles stopped in the middle of roads for videos or photo ops. This disrupts traffic and creates unsafe conditions, especially in areas with fast-moving vehicles. With a longer weekend this year, the UAE aims to prevent such incidents by clearly stating what’s allowed and what’s not.
The 11 Activities Banned During Eid Al Etihad
The MOI has listed 11 activities that residents should strictly avoid during the National Day period. These rules apply throughout the UAE and aim to protect both drivers and pedestrians.
- Participating in unapproved parades or forming random gatherings on public roads.
- Blocking traffic or stopping vehicles in unsafe or disruptive spots.
- Performing stunt driving, drifting or any dangerous manoeuvres.
- Leaning out of windows or standing through sunroofs.
- Overloading vehicles with more passengers than the legal limit.
- Covering vehicle windows or hiding number plates with decorations.
- Making unauthorized vehicle modifications, especially noisy ones.
- Wearing scarves that do not relate to Eid Al Etihad.
- Raising any flag other than the UAE flag during National Day.
- Using spray paint on vehicles.
- Playing loud music that is not related to the celebration.
These rules are designed to keep the festive spirit intact while reducing risks. For example, sunroof-standing is often seen during celebrations in areas like Downtown Dubai, JBR, and Yas Island, but it remains one of the most dangerous practices. Overcrowding cars for quick road trips between the Emirates is another recurring issue.
Authorities confirmed that vehicles involved in violations may face fines, black points, or impoundment, depending on the offence.
How Residents Can Celebrate Safely
Even with the restrictions, the UAE encourages residents to express national pride. Car decorations are allowed when done responsibly, using official stickers and without blocking visibility. Community events, family outings and cultural gatherings continue to be a major part of UAE National Day traditions.
Raising the UAE flag remains one of the most important gestures during Eid Al Etihad. Authorities, however, stressed that the flag must always be handled with respect and displayed correctly.
Important Rules for Displaying the UAE Flag
The MOI has outlined 15 rules for displaying the UAE flag properly during National Day. These guidelines protect the dignity of the national symbol and ensure consistency across the country.
Some of the key rules include:
- The flag must always be clean, undamaged and in proper condition.
- Colours and proportions must be accurate.
- The flag should never touch the ground or be placed in a disrespectful position.
- It should not be altered, modified or used in a way that distorts its meaning.
- The UAE flag must be raised higher than any other flag displayed with it.
- Proper poles and secure fittings must be used.
These rules are commonly followed across UAE communities. In Dubai’s neighbourhoods — from Arabian Ranches to JVC and Al Barsha — families often decorate their villas and balconies with the UAE colours, and many prefer to raise the flag at home to mark the occasion.
Families Should Expect a wide variety of fun
With thousands of families heading to fireworks, heritage shows and citywide attractions, authorities are expecting heightened footfall and heavier traffic. Security teams and patrol units will be present across major locations to ensure celebrations stay safe and organized.
The message is clear this year: Celebrate proudly, but prioritise safety for family outings, home gatherings, or festival drives.
Eid Al Etihad continues to be a moment of unity and national pride for residents across the UAE. The newly announced safety rules aim to protect that spirit by ensuring celebrations remain enjoyable and secure. From driving responsibly to displaying the UAE flag with respect, every guideline supports a smoother and safer National Day weekend.
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