This weekend is the last long weekend of the year, and we can't believe we are already almost at the end of 2017. Start the festive month right with these popping fireworks shows celebrating UAE National Day which falls on December 2 – there are enough of them for you to try over the entire weekend.

Abu Dhabi

Yas Island

As part of its annual ‘National Day Colours’ event, Yas Marina Circuit has lined up a bevy of activities for the whole family to enjoy with a jam packed program taking place from 2pm to 9pm on Saturday, December 2. The evening’s festivities will culminate in colourful National Day fireworks set to kick off at 9 pm.

Location Yas Island Date December 2 (Saturday) Time 9pm

Al Maryah Island

Al Maryah Island’s waterfront promenade will be transformed to resemble the era of the union’s early days. Overall giving a traditional look and feel, the perimeter will feature architectural installations of traditional Arabic houses (Barajeel) to reflect the rich Emirati heritage of the UAE. The National Day celebrations will conclude on December 2 with music band performances, and a four-minute-long fireworks show at 9pm.

Location Al Maryah Island Date December 2 (Saturday) Time 9pm

Dubai

Dubai Festival City

Dubai Festival City Mall will host a series of events at Festival Bay from 1.30pm in the afternoon till 11.15pm, including a fly-past by Al Fursan, spectacular aerobatics, fireworks and a special edition Imagine show celebrating Emirati culture. National Day festivities will continue through the evening, with captivating ayala dance performances and live Jet Pack stunt shows.

Traffic and parking can be hard if you don't start early. The nearest metro station is Al Jadaf on the Green Line.

Location Dubai Festival City Date December 2 (Saturday) Time 9.10pm and 10.50pm

Riverland Dubai

Dubai Parks and Resorts will showcase their fireworks show at Riverland on December 1 and 2, along with a free concert and other entertainment. Entry to Riverland is free while general parking (usually costs Dh20) will be free after 6.30pm on December 2.

Location Riverland, Dubai Parks and Resorts Dates December 1 and 2 Timings 8pm

La Mer

Dubai’s newest beachfront destination is the place to go this long weekend. If you haven't been there yet, check out our detailed guide to the venue here. December 1, Friday will see spectacular fireworks light up the skies at La Mer in celebration of the UAE National Day, along with other events spanning the entire weekend.

Location La Mer Date December 1 (Friday) Time 9.30pm

The Beach

Head over to the Beach on Saturday for fireworks and free entertainment this National Day weekend.

Location The Beach, Dubai Date December 2 (Saturday) Time 9.30pm onwards

Global Village

From December 1 to 3, Global Village guests will enjoy firework displays that will carry the colours of the UAE flag and reach a height of 200 metres. The display will be accompanied by a variety of musical presentations as it lights up the skies for five minutes.

All celebrations and events as part of UAE National Day at Global Village are included in the ticket price of Dh15 per person. The venue will also have extended hours; 4pm to 2am, from December 1 to 5.

Location Global Village Dates December 1 to 3 (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) Time 9pm

Sharjah

Al Qasba

Sharjah residents can enjoy fireworks on December 2 at Al Qasba, after spending a family day filled with activities. Getting to Al Qasba is a great thing to do this long weekend, and not just for the fireworks. The venue offers many entertainment, leisure and culture events suitable for all ages.

Location Al Qasba Date December 2 (Saturday) Time 10pm