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Khaleej Times
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
UAE: Long weekend break, mega shows? What to expect from 54th National Day festivities
Each December, a festive spirit fills the air across the UAE as the country gears up to celebrate the historic unification of the seven Emirates on December 2. What has been known until 2024 as the UAE National Day has now taken on a new and meaningful name: Eid Al Etihad, which translates to 'Festival of the Union'. Eid Al Etihad emphasises the theme of 'union' (Etihad) and celebrates the unification on December 2, 1971. The excitement around UAE National Day, or more appropriately, Eid Al Etihad, goes far beyond just the long public holiday; it's a full-fledged celebration of country's "identity, symbolising heritage, unity, strength, and national pride". What's the backstory Back in 1971, the rulers of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, and Fujairah came together and formed the Union. Ras Al Khaimah joined in early 1972. And with that, the UAE was born, with vision of a powerhouse that is now emerging not just in the region but world wide. Public holidays For most residents, Eid Al Etihad means public holidays. Typically, both public and private sector employees get two days off, December 2 and 3, allowing time for staycations, road trips, or simply relaxing at home. This year, residents will receive midweek holidays on Tuesday, December 2, and Wednesday, December 3. But why stop there? You can turn this into a week-long break by applying for annual leave on Monday, December 1, and Thursday and Friday (Dec 4, 5). With the two weekends included, you will have a 9-day holiday to wrap up the year. Celebrations in the past two years Authorities have announced that the preparations are now underway for the 54th Eid Al Etihad, and everyone who calls the UAE home is encouraged to begin preparing for this year's celebrations. In 2022, the 51st National Day was all about storytelling. The official show was held in Abu Dhabi and later aired nationwide. It was an artistic spectacle with synchronised drones, dancers floating above water, and Emirati culture on full display. The celebration also paid tribute to Sheikh Khalifa and showcase UAE's next transport marvel — the Etihad Rail. In 2023, for the 52nd Eid Al Etihad, the theme was 'The Story of Our Union'. The celebration featured next-level tech with immersive visuals, augmented reality, AI-generated landscapes, telling the story of the UAE's growth. The fireworks were everywhere, from Dubai Festival City and Global Village to Sharjah Corniche and Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. Basically, if you looked up, there was probably something bursting and making you smile. In 2024, 10,000 artists, camels descended in Al Ain for Eid Al Etihad celebrations. The towering peaks of Jebel Hafeet in Al Ain served as the majestic backdrop for the UAE's 53rd National Day celebration. Real camels, palm tree props, and the enchanting Thuraya constellation set the scene for a spectacular show, interweaving nature's elements with the UAE's history and traditions. What to expect in 2025 Let's just say, the UAE doesn't do low-key celebrations. Although the full schedule isn't out yet, we can expect more of everything, more lights, more tech, more drones and maybe even a surprise concert or two. Possibly a new thematic show streamed nationwide, similar to the previous two years. Here's what we expect to see: Massive fireworks displays across all Emirates (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah). Drone shows have become a must-have in recent years telling UAE's story like never before. Free public events like parades (think Downtown Dubai, Global Village, cultural dances, and music festivals). Discounts and offers as malls, restaurants, and hotels love to join the celebrations. Traffic fine reduction. In 2024, motorists in four emirates of the UAE were offered a 50 per cent discount on traffic fines as part of a special UAE National Day initiative. Free public parking for motorists. However, with Parkin taking over the most parking areas in Dubai and Parkonic in Abu Dhabi, we will be watching out for the announcements this year. The last month of the year is a time when skyscrapers are lit up in red, green, white, and black, and families come together to reflect, rejoice, and look ahead. Eid Al Etihad celebration is a proud reminder of where the UAE came from and where it is heading — onwards and upwards.
Time of India
4 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
UAE Union Pledge Day explained: What happened to the Emirates in 1971
President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan officially designated Union Pledge Day to honour the historic 1971 signing of the UAE Union/ Image: WAM TL;DR Union Pledge Day marks the 1971 signing that set the UAE 's unification in motion. It honours the vision and leadership of the founding fathers, especially Sheikh Zayed . It reflects the UAE's progress in areas like space, sustainability, and economic innovation. It emphasizes ongoing investment in social development, education, and quality of life. A Day of National Reflection and Unity As the United Arab Emirates observes the first anniversary of Union Pledge Day on July 18, the nation pauses to honour a historic turning point, when, exactly 54 years ago, the founding fathers came together to sign the declaration of the Union and the UAE Constitution. This monumental act set the stage for the country's unification and the emergence of the UAE as a modern and visionary state. Union Pledge Day was officially designated by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan as a national occasion to reaffirm loyalty to the homeland, honour the legacy of the founding fathers, and celebrate the UAE's ongoing development. The day serves as a moment of reflection, reminding citizens and residents alike of the sacrifices and foresight that have shaped the nation's identity, values, and direction. The event not only celebrates the birth of a country, but also highlights its rise as a regional and global leader, built on a foundation of unity, vision, and resilience. Founding Vision and the Road to Union The journey to the UAE's unification culminated in a decisive moment on 18 July, 1971, when the rulers of the Emirates signed the declaration of the Union and the UAE Constitution. This pivotal act laid the legal and structural groundwork for a unified nation, and set in motion the formation of the Arab world's first federal state, officially established on 2 December that same year. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Is it legal? How to get Internet without paying a subscription? Techno Mag Learn More Undo This day remains the country's National Day, while Union Pledge Day now commemorates the critical moment when the idea of the union became a committed reality. At the heart of this achievement was the visionary leadership of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, whose unwavering belief in unity, consensus, and shared purpose brought the Emirates together. Alongside the founding rulers, Sheikh Zayed championed a bold model for national development, rooted in heritage, guided by tolerance, and focused on building a prosperous future for generations to come. Today, Union Pledge Day honours not only the moment the Union was pledged, but the values, sacrifices, and foresight that continue to shape the UAE's identity and direction. The Empowerment Phase: Leadership of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed (2004–2022) Following Sheikh Zayed's passing, the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan assumed leadership and ushered in a new chapter in the UAE's growth, referred to as the 'empowerment phase.' His presidency from 2004 to 2022 saw the strengthening of institutions, promotion of education, and advancement of civic participation. During this period, the UAE achieved landmark successes in multiple sectors: Economic and Infrastructure Growth Service Expansion Humanitarian Outreach Renewable Energy Development Space Exploration One of the most symbolic achievements of this era was the UAE becoming the first Arab and Muslim country to reach Mars, through the successful launch and orbit of the Hope Probe. Sheikh Khalifa's administration also laid out critical strategic frameworks that have shaped national development: The Principles of the 50 UAE Vision 2021 UAE Strategy for Government Services (2021–2025) UAE National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence National Space Strategy 2030 UAE Net Zero 2050 Strategy These initiatives focused on future-readiness, sustainability, innovation, and inclusive growth. Continued Growth Under Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed (Since 2022) Since assuming the presidency in 2022, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has led the UAE into a new era of consolidation and expansion, with continued progress across economic, social, and political fronts. In his first address to the nation, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed reaffirmed the enduring relevance of the founding fathers' vision. As reported by WAM, the Emirates News Agency, he stated: 'Today, we see our nation ranked among the most advanced nations globally, as well as being one of the best places to live and work. This was the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed and our founding fathers, and we thank God for this blessing. We will continue to follow their wise approach, drawing inspiration from their unfaltering leadership. Our history, identity, and cultural heritage will form an essential part of our plans for the future.' This commitment has translated into robust economic diversification and rising global competitiveness. Key developments under Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed's leadership include: Growth in tourism, trade, financial services, industry, real estate, telecom, and technology Continued rise in foreign investment The UAE Central Bank projects a 4.4% real GDP growth in 2025, largely driven by the non-oil economy In Q1 2025, non-oil foreign trade reached AED835 billion, with exports at a record AED177.3 billion Decades of Economic Transformation Over the past five decades, the UAE has undergone one of the most remarkable economic transformations in the region. From its early years to its current global stature, the numbers speak volumes: GDP rose from AED58.3 billion in 1975 to AED17 trillion in 2024 Foreign trade increased from AED11.5 billion to AED5.23 trillion during the same period This growth has not only elevated living standards within the country but also positioned the UAE as a key player in the global economy. Social Development and Community Focus in 2025 In January, President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed declared 2025 as the 'Year of Community,' with the goal of strengthening intergenerational ties and reinforcing social cohesion. To support these efforts, the UAE government allocated AED27.9 billion to social development, representing 39 percent of the 2025 federal budget. This allocation underscores the country's enduring commitment to citizen welfare, cultural preservation, and inclusive societal progress. UAE's Global Humanitarian Role Beyond its borders, the UAE continues to play a vital role in humanitarian aid, peacebuilding, and international cooperation. These efforts are deeply rooted in the nation's founding values of tolerance, coexistence, and justice. Since its establishment, the UAE has provided an estimated AED368 billion in foreign aid, reaching more than one billion people worldwide across various humanitarian and development sectors. This ongoing international engagement reflects the UAE's commitment to global stability and its identity as a responsible and compassionate global actor. FAQs: Q. What is Union Pledge Day? Union Pledge Day marks the 1971 signing of the declaration that led to the UAE's unification. Q. When is Union Pledge Day celebrated? It is observed annually on July 18. Q. How is Union Pledge Day different from National Day? Union Pledge Day commemorates the decision to unite, while National Day (December 2) marks the formal establishment of the UAE. Q. Why is Union Pledge Day important? It honours the founding leaders' vision and reflects on the UAE's journey of growth and development.
The National
4 days ago
- Politics
- The National
President Sheikh Mohamed speaks of strength of nation on Union Pledge Day
President Sheikh Mohamed said unity was the strength of the UAE as the country marks Union Pledge Day. It was on this date, July 18, in 1971 that UAE Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, signed the declaration of the Union and the Constitution, while announcing that the country would be named officially as the United Arab Emirates. "On Union Pledge Day, we celebrate the blessed history of our Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and his brothers the Rulers in working together towards establishing the Union," Sheikh Mohamed said in a post on X. "As we renew our shared commitment to sustaining the progress and prosperity of the UAE, we affirm that unity remains the strength of our nation and its continued advancement." The occasion was established to reaffirm loyalty to the homeland and celebrate the country's continued development, state news agency Wam reported. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, said in a post on X that the occasion marked the day the nation's founders agreed on the resources and effort needed to build the "greatest unification project in the modern Arab world". "Today, we renew our pledge to continue building with the same spirit, the same resolve and with global ambitions for the future," Sheikh Mohammed said. The day aims to strengthen national identity and raise public awareness of the steps that propelled the UAE to its current status as a regional and global leader, Wam added.
