Rules for National Day celebrations in UAE, from flag waving to car decorations

The UAE has set out safety rules for the public to ensure National Day celebrations run smoothly – with people urged to fly the flag proudly but avoid blaring out loud music and spray painting their vehicles.

The Ministry of Interior said the regulations were in place to ensure the well-being of road users and to curb practices which could endanger lives or property.

Brig Eng Hussein Al Harthi, chairman of the Federal Traffic Council at the Ministry of Interior, stressed the importance of marking the festivities in a civilised manner.

Citizens and residents typically gather in large numbers at organised public events to mark National Day, also known as Eid Al Etihad.

A number of firework displays will be held across the Emirates, while the National Day show will be screened at viewing events on December 2.

What are the National Day rules?

Permitted practices:

Using official Eid Al Etihad stickers

Raising the UAE flag

Prohibited practices:

Participating in parades and forming random gatherings

Obstructing traffic or blocking public roads

Stunt driving

Leaning out of windows or sunroofs

Overloading vehicles

Covering windows or concealing licence plates

Making unauthorised modifications or creating excessive noise

Wearing scarves not related to Eid Al Etihad occasion

Raising any flag other than the UAE flag

Using spray paint on vehicles

Playing loud music (except Eid Al Etihad-related music)

The ministry urged the public not to cause traffic congestion and emphasised the risks of performing stunts or other reckless behaviour.

It said stickers should not be put on the body of cars and windshields. Making modifications which increase engine noise or adding accessories which could hamper visibility are also banned.

The use of spray paint by drivers, passengers and pedestrians was also prohibited.