As the official celebration of the UAE’s national day, Eid Al Etihad marks the historic moment on 2 December 1971 when the seven emirates united to form the UAE. The name highlights the union (Etihad) at the heart of our national identity, a symbol of heritage, strength, and pride. On this day, we reaffirm that our strength lies in the bonds we build hand in hand, and in the individuals and communities.
“The National Day is an occasion filled with pride and joy. It is also an opportunity to reenergize and look into the year ahead with a renewed sense of vision and determination”.
“You planted the seed of the Union in the heart of every citizen. Your legacy has been nurtured by those entrusted with the responsibility of guiding the UAE forward, including Sheikh Khalifa and Sheikh Maktoum, my brother, President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, and the Emirates' Rulers”.
The UAE’s Federation has been a successful example of a union that was based on shared ties that brought together people of the seven Emirates, including history, heritage, and traditions. These connections ensured a strong base for a well-established federation, even though this was a new concept at that time. The union idea grew in the heart and mind of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may his soul rest in peace. Here you can find a timeline of key events in the region, from the termination of the British protectionist treaties until announcing the UAE Federation.
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Through the ‘Founding Fathers’ section, we learnt about the remarkable leaders who planted the seeds of a powerful and steady country. In this section you will learn more about our current Rulers who continued the journey the founding fathers began, and who took an oath to protect this land and maintain the happiness of their people.
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On this occasion, and through this section, let’s remember the Union’s Rulers who united their will to plant the seed of a powerful and steady country, in pursuit of the dream of providing the best standard of living to their people. They are the rulers of the seven emirates and the founding fathers of our precious union.
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Every Emirate has its own unique features, places landmarks and areas. This section will provide you with an overview of the UAE’s seven emirates, every emirate with its own details.
read moreIn this section, we have prepared a summary of some achievements that have been made over the past 50 years which helped making the UAE an oasis of happiness, prosperity, security, and safety, presenting a unique global model for peace, tolerance, and love, where everyone lives in harmony. You will learn about the first founders efforts since 1971 and what our current wise leadership, whom we live under their protection and security continued to do to position the UAE at the forefront of the developed countries.
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We invite you to read this updated section, which highlights the latest releases by the Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates of commemorative coins issued in celebration of historic milestones and enduring national achievements.
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Traditional Emirati crafts represent an integral part of the UAE’s national identity and rich cultural heritage. They embody the creativity, skill, and deep connection of the Emirati people with their natural environment. In this section, you will learn more about a collection of traditional crafts that have been passed down through generations including Al-Sadu, Al-Khoos, Burqa Sewing, Dukhoon-Making, Garagir Handcrafts, and Talli.
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We would like to share with you in this section some of the traditional group performances which are performed during the national occasions and are defined according to the UNESCO as ‘Intangible Heritage’.
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To view the guide and learn more about the festivities
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