November is a time when Abu Dhabi feels more connected than ever. As the weather cools and people gather outdoors, three occasions stand out, each carrying its own spirit of national pride, gratitude, and joy. Whether you were born here or have made the UAE your home, these events offer meaningful ways to reflect on the past and look forward to the future.
This is your guide to Flag Day, Commemoration Day, and the Mother of the Nation Festival and why they matter.
Flag Day – 3 November
Every year on 3 November, the UAE observes Flag Day, an occasion that unites people across the Emirates. The date commemorates the accession of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan as president in 2004.
More than a formality, Flag Day is a moment when schools, government offices, and private companies gather to raise the flag exactly at 11:00 am. You’ll see children proudly waving miniature flags, workplaces decorated in red, green, white, and black, and neighbours greeting each other with warm wishes.
Flag Day is a reminder of the values that built the UAE: unity, tolerance, and ambition. For many Emiratis and residents alike, it’s also a chance to teach the next generation what the flag symbolises—hope, loyalty, and a shared purpose.
Ways to Participate:
- Join a local flag-raising ceremony.
- Display the flag on your balcony or car.
- Share photos and messages of pride on social media.
Commemoration Day – 30 November
At the end of the month, Commemoration Day invites everyone in the UAE to pause and remember those who gave their lives in service to the nation.
Originally called Martyrs’ Day, it was declared in 2015 by His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The date 30 November has become a national day of gratitude for Emiratis who have fallen in military, civil, and humanitarian roles.
On Commemoration Day, official ceremonies take place across Abu Dhabi and the wider UAE. Flags are lowered at half-mast from 8:00 am until 11:30 am, followed by a moment of silence and prayer.
It is a powerful expression of respect, reminding everyone that the freedoms and stability enjoyed today were hard-won. Even if you are new to the country, you’ll notice the solemn atmosphere and the unity it inspires.
How You Can Observe:
- Observe the nationwide minute of silence at 11:30 am.
- Learn about the stories of those who served.
- Visit memorials or exhibitions if they are open to the public.
Mother of the Nation Festival – 28 November to 31 December
After the solemnity of Commemoration Day, Abu Dhabi shifts to a different kind of gathering: one filled with celebration, art, and culture.
The Mother of the Nation Festival (MOTN) returns from 28 November to 31 December. Held along the Abu Dhabi Corniche, the festival pays tribute to Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, who is often called the Mother of the Nation for her contributions to family development and women’s empowerment.
More than just a festival, MOTN is an invitation for everyone—families, young creatives, food lovers—to come together and enjoy the city’s most vibrant annual experience.
You’ll find an eclectic mix of live concerts, interactive art installations, shopping pop-ups, and street food inspired by cuisines from around the world. Each year, organisers introduce new themes and experiences, making every visit feel fresh.
Festival Highlights:
- Live Entertainment: Concerts from regional and international artists.
- Workshops: Creative classes for adults and children.
- Gastronomy: Dozens of food stalls and concept cafes.
- Family Activities: Games, storytelling, and themed zones.
If you want to end the year on an uplifting note, MOTN is an ideal place to spend time outdoors and feel part of the community.
A Month That Brings Everyone Together
What makes November special in Abu Dhabi isn’t just the dates on the calendar. It’s how these events balance pride, remembrance, and celebration.
On Flag Day, the nation unites under the colours of the UAE flag, reaffirming shared values. On Commemoration Day, the community pauses to honour those who sacrificed everything. And as the Mother of the Nation Festival begins, everyone is invited to celebrate culture, creativity, and togetherness.
Wherever you are in Abu Dhabi, these moments will remind you that this is more than a city—it’s a place where history, gratitude, and joy belong side by side.