December 2026 in Dubai and the UAE: National Day, F1 Abu Dhabi and GITEX

UAE Commemoration Day (1 December) honours UAE soldiers who died in service. Official public holiday: government offices, schools, banks and most private businesses are closed.

UAE National Day is a 2-day public holiday on 2-3 December, marking the founding of the UAE in 1971. Citywide celebrations, fireworks, parades and national events. Government, schools and most businesses are closed. With Friday 4 December following, residents may enjoy a 3-4 day break.

Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2026 takes place 4-6 December at Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi. Season finale of the 2026 F1 World Championship. Practice: Dec 4-5; qualifying: Dec 5; race: Sunday Dec 6. Abu Dhabi is approximately 130 km from Dubai.

GITEX Global 2026 runs 7-11 December at Expo City Dubai (Dubai Exhibition Centre) -- a new venue from 2026, moving from DWTC. World's largest annual tech, AI and startup event.

UAE private school winter break begins 14 December 2026. Schools reopen 4 January 2027. Applies to most private schools in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and other emirates; individual schools may vary by 1-2 days. Source: KHDA official academic calendar 2026-2027.

The Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Yasalam After-Race Concert opens on Thursday 3 December 2026 at Etihad Park, Yas Island with Lewis Capaldi and Zara Larsson performing. The F1 race weekend runs 3-6 December at Yas Marina Circuit. Concert access included with F1 ticket.

Imagine Dragons headline the Saturday Yasalam After-Race Concert at Etihad Park, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi on 5 December 2026 -- part of the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend (3-6 December). Concert included with F1 race ticket. Abu Dhabi is approximately 130 km from Dubai.