42nd National Day: Spectacular displays on Abu Dhabi Corniche

The UAE's air, navy, armed forces marched on Abu Dhabi's Corniche as part of National Day celebrations.

National Day festivities kicked off on the capital’s Corniche with a military parade yesterday. Lee Hoagland / The National

ABU DHABI // The shrieking of a Mirage jet fighter over the Corniche signalled the start of the Armed Forces’ parade on Sunday afternoon.

Air, Navy, Army and supporting forces marched as part of National Day celebrations.

Visitors were treated to a spectacular display by the show’s opening act, with the French-made Mirage wowing the crowds with aerobatic manoeuvres.

Naval forces then showed off a Baynunah class corvette ship, part of a fleet being built in the UAE.

Helicopters also featured, with Black Hawks and Apaches in flight and on the ground so visitors could have a closer look.

Battle tanks were on the beach, displaying some of the Ground Forces’ most heavily armoured combat vehicles.

Heritage was also well represented by a Fujairah group performing traditional Emirati dance and music.

A member of the group, Mohammed Habash, said he was proud to be involved in the processions.

“National Day is a special time for us and we have to be thankful to all our leaders for what they have done in the last 42 years,” the Emirati said.

British expatriate Ian Rees, an engineer in Abu Dhabi, praised the patriotism on display.

“It’s great to experience National Day in the UAE and see how involved the Emirati citizens are,” Mr Rees said.

“Unfortunately it’s back to work tomorrow, so I plan to enjoy the rest of the day barbecuing and enjoying the fireworks from home.”

Bangladeshi Mohammed Alam, 31, who has been living in Abu Dhabi for 13 years, said National Day celebrations had changed significantly since he first came to the UAE.

“Every year the celebrations get longer and bigger,” he said. “It just gives us more to enjoy.”

Mr Alam said he would definitely go back to the Corniche on National Day.