SHAHEDNEWS: Every year on December 2nd, the UAE National Day is celebrated. Known as "Spirit of the Union," this day marks the unification of all seven emirates—Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Ajman, Al Ain, Sharjah, Umm Al Quwain, and Ras Al Khaimah—into one nation.
According to SHAHEDNEWS, From dazzling fireworks displays to elaborate parades and grand ceremonies, UAE National Day is a time for locals and expatriates to come together in celebration.
The United Arab Emirates wasn’t always the powerful country it is today. In fact, the region was once divided into rival tribal groups occupying different areas. In 1820, Britain entered the scene and offered protection to these tribes in exchange for control over the land. Desperate for peace, the tribes agreed to this arrangement, allowing Britain to mediate their disputes. However, in 1968, Britain began experiencing financial difficulties and withdrew its presence from the region.
Following Britain's exit, the rulers of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Ajman, Al Ain, Sharjah, and Umm Al Quwain decided to unite. On December 2, 1971, the UAE declared its independence from Britain and became the United Arab Emirates. Later, Ras Al Khaimah—the seventh emirate—also joined the union.
This unification and their independence from colonial rule were achieved without any violence!
To symbolize the union of the seven emirates and the formation of the UAE, the country’s flag, as we know it today, was raised, and the UAE’s first president—Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan—was elected. Sheikh Zayed, the ruler of Abu Dhabi and the wealthiest of the seven emirates, played a pivotal role in this process.
Today, the UAE is recognized as a prominent power, a country with a thriving economy, vast oil reserves, abundant tourism, and some of the tallest buildings in the world. However, all Emiratis acknowledge that the strength they possess today exists because the seven emirates chose unity in 1971.
From homes and streets to people and cars, the colors of the national flag are seen everywhere in the days leading up to UAE National Day. Shades of red, white, black, and green cover all aspects of Emirati life, while flags flutter atop landmarks across the country.
As a public holiday, UAE National Day brings families and friends together for a day of celebration and reflection.
Vibrant carnivals wind along the waterfront, with colorful floats showcasing images and figures of Sheikh Zayed spreading joy. Beaches often transform into open-air galleries with sand sculptures made for the occasion. To round off the day, locals flock to the streets to watch fireworks light up cities across the UAE.
The official UAE National Day celebration is held annually at the Zayed Sports City Stadium in Abu Dhabi. This extravagant event features breathtaking aerobatic displays, thrilling performances, and inspiring speeches. The entire event exudes national pride and courage, grounded in the legacy of the UAE’s founders and their enduring spirit that continues to thrive today.
