KT Photo: File / Shihab

Whether you're new to the UAE or have visited before the formation of the seven emirates in 1971, National Day is always a thrilling time to be in the country. Most residents will enjoy a four-day weekend as the UAE celebrates with vibrant colors. Many families are traveling, but for those staying, grand events, dazzling shows, and numerous offers are planned. To ensure public safety and security, UAE authorities have implemented several rules, with special teams monitoring compliance, particularly with traffic regulations. Public transport operations have also been adjusted for residents' convenience. All these announcements and changes have been made in the past few days — here's a recap:

Official Public Holiday Dates
The UAE Government has declared December 2 and 3 as paid holidays for employees in both private and public sectors. Most offices will be closed on Monday and Tuesday, so if you have pending transactions, you may need to reschedule them.

Free Data for UAE National Day
If you're on a du mobile plan, whether postpaid or prepaid, you'll receive free 53GB data. Postpaid customers will automatically get the freebie, valid for seven days. Prepaid users must sign up for a Flexi Yearly Plan to get the free data, valid for a year. (Click here for a step-by-step guide on redeeming the offer.)

Free Parking in Dubai
Public parking in Dubai will be free on December 2 and 3, except at multi-storey terminals. There are no charges on Sunday, November 30, too.

Public Beach Restrictions
Four public beaches in Dubai will be reserved for families from November 30 to December 3. These beaches are: Jumeirah Beach 2, Jumeirah 3, Umm Suqeim 1, and Umm Suqeim 2.

Fireworks Across UAE
Here's a list of places where you can catch dazzling firework shows: Dubai (Global Village, Bluewaters and The Beach, JBR, Hatta Sign, Dubai Festival City Mall, Al Seef, Riverland at Dubai Parks and Resorts), Abu Dhabi (Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Marina Circuit, Al Maryah Island, Sheikh Zayed Festival, Al Wathba, Mother of the Nation Festival, Al Ain Square), Umm Al Quwain (Al Khor Waterfront), and more.

How to Watch the Official 53rd Eid Al Etihad Ceremony
This year's official UAE National Day celebrations will be held in Al Ain. While the venue is open to some members of the public, seats are limited. You can also catch a live-stream on www.eidaletihad.ae starting at 6.15pm on December 2.

Rules to Follow for Gatherings and Vehicles
If you're hosting a party or holding mini-programs, remember to follow specific rules. Only play songs and wear scarves related to Eid Al Etihad. Raise only the UAE flag. For vehicles, avoid unauthorized engine modifications and only use stickers and logos specifically for Eid Al Etihad. Check out the full guidelines here.

Free Entry to Museums
Sharjah's public museums in the city, Kalba, and Khor Fakkan will offer free entry on December 1 and 2.

50% Traffic Fine Discounts
Driving in Ajman and Umm Al Quwain? Now is the time to settle your traffic fines with a 50% discount announced.

Ban on Trucks in Some Areas
Trucks and heavy vehicles are prohibited from entering the main cities of Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Zayed City on December 2 and 3.

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