Video – Flag Day: UAE President and Vice President lead the raising of the nation’s colors

At his side was astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi, the first Arab astronaut to complete a six-month mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS).

After the ceremony, Sheikh Mohamed took to X|Twitter to express his feelings: “On Flag Day, we come together to raise the UAE flag, which symbolizes the pride and loyalty of the nation. As we come together to mark this occasion, I remain fully confident in the ability of the next generation to create a better future for all.”

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, also echoed the patriotic fervor in a tweet: “Celebrating the symbol of our union. The banner of our glory. The flag of our country. Flag of the United Arab Emirates.

Accompanying the tweet was a video showing the UAE’s achievements in various fields, reinforcing the nation’s progress and unity.

The occasion was first announced in 2013 by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum and has been celebrated every year since then. Although the day is of great importance to the Emirates, it does not count as a public holiday.

Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, raised the UAE flag at the Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Court on the occasion of Flag Day.

Sheikh Khaled emphasized that Flag Day is a cherished national occasion that the UAE celebrates with great pride because it symbolizes the UAE’s values ​​of unity and cohesion. He highlighted that the path of progress established by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan continues towards a bright future thanks to the wisdom of the UAE leaders and their efforts to achieve prosperity for the nation and its people.

Sheikh Khaled reaffirmed that the UAE flag will always be raised high to bear witness to the achievements of the founding fathers in establishing a unified nation that continues to achieve the aspirations of its people.

The flag-raising ceremony featured the UAE national anthem and was attended by Sheikh Khalifa bin Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, President of the Crown Prince’s Court of Abu Dhabi; Jassem Mohamed Bu Ataba Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Department of Finance; Mr. Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Chairman of the Department of Community Development; Pilot Major General Faris Khalaf Al Mazrouei, Commander-in-Chief of Abu Dhabi Police; Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, president of the Department of Culture and Tourism; Eng Awaidha Murshed Al Marar, Chairperson of the Department of Energy; Awadh Musallam and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge; Ahmed Jassem Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development Mansoor Ibrahim Al Mansoori, Chairman of the Department of Health; Ahmed Tamim Al Kuttab, Chairman of the Government Enabling Department; Saif Saeed Ghobash, Secretary General of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council; and several senior officials and employees of the Abu Dhabi government.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council, said that the UAE flag will always be a symbol of pride thanks to the sacrifices and achievements of the Emirati people and their relentless efforts to contribute to His impressive list of achievements.

Sheikh Hamdan said the invaluable contributions of the country’s people had helped the UAE prosper and its flag was the embodiment of the drive and determination that characterized its successes. This enduring symbol would also serve as an inspiration to future generations, offering them invaluable lessons and motivation to aspire to even higher levels of excellence and distinction, while maintaining the highest standards and best practices. This dedication, in turn, will further boost the UAE’s global competitiveness in various fields, he added.

Sheikh Hamdan said UAE Flag Day is an opportunity for citizens to express their strong sense of belonging to the nation and demonstrate their patriotism and commitment to its leadership, which works tirelessly to ensure the continued progress and prosperity of the nation.

Sheikh Hamdan extended his greetings to the President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan; His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid; and to His Highnesses the members of the Supreme Council and Rulers of the Emirates on the occasion.

UAE Flag Day also serves to highlight the authentic and enduring values ​​on which the UAE is founded, said Sheikh Hamdan. The occasion serves to bring together Emiratis as they express their deep loyalty to their nation’s flag and their renewed commitment to their homeland, he added.

Sheikh Hamdan said the occasion, celebrated by citizens and residents alike, symbolizes gratitude towards the nation that has welcomed people from all walks of life and allowed them to pursue their dreams and ambitions.

He added that the UAE has consciously chosen to be a land where tolerance and coexistence are the defining qualities of life, fostering a society characterized by kindness, peace and harmony.