UMM AL QUWAIN // Emiratis and expatriates celebrated National Day with a colourful car parade, barbecues and much patriotic flag-waving.
The public holiday meant a host of decorated vehicles took to the roads, all bearing the UAE flag and the national colours, for impromptu parades through streets and main roads.
While car enthusiasts beeped their horns and played traditional and Emirati music, others celebrated with a picnic or barbecue while some spent the day fishing.
As well as making sure residents and nationals alike enjoyed their time away from work, Mohammed Al Kshef, chairman of the media committee for National Day celebrations in UAQ, said it was important that people understood what the day stood for.
Celebrations should be filled with “patriotism in the hearts of their sons and daughters to teach them that this is a special day through the simplest things such as clothes and decorations”, he said.
Mr Al Kshef added that he and the rest of the committee work hard to ensure the emirate’s celebrations are suited to everyone.
Schoolgirl Salma Ahmed, 12 said: “I can’t fully express my feelings in this day, but through my participation and my clothes I can express it a little.”
Tuesday was Kamilia Ehab’s first National Day.
“The celebration is so nice, and I am happy to see and participate in the activities that are organised by Ministry of Culture Youth and Community Development,” said the 13-year-old Egyptian.
Abdulla Ali Buosaibah, the centre’s manager, said: “I celebrate the National Day through applying the initiative of Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, which is Above My House a Flag, so I decorate my car, my house and participate in parades and national activities.”
Nada Jamal has lived in UAQ for 25 years, and marks December 2 each every year to show her love for the UAE.
“I feel so happy in this special day,” said the 35-year-old Palestinian.
roueiti@thenational.ae
