ABU DHABI // For Emiratis in the capital, this year’s Flag Day was particularly poignant – because of the success of the Armed Forces in Yemen.
Emiratis expressed their delight and hoped that the fight would end as soon as possible and peace would prevail across the region.
“Today we are celebrating two things – Flag Day and the success of our Armed Forces in Yemen to restore peace. Peace should be everywhere in the region,” Salem Al Seiari said.
“I know that the existing batch of Armed Forces is returning home and a new group of forces will replace them,” Mr Al Seiari said. “This is a part of a rotation. We are happy that a successful batch is coming back from Yemen. I also want to go to Yemen to serve my country. In fact, each Emirati, if you ask, would love to devote himself to the National Service.”
Many of the capital’s buildings were wrapped in the national flag, while those in high-rise buildings raised it from their balconies to mark Flag Day.
Young Emiratis were out on Abu Dhabi Corniche and Breakwater in front of Marina Mall holding flags and chanting slogans for their love to the country.
Mubarak Al Mansouri, who was holding a big flag, said: “This Flag Day is for all people of the country and this is the sweetest day for us because all people of the country get united to mark the day. It feels great to see that all people today are out to mark the day together,” he said.
“The role of the Armed Forces in Yemen has been excellent and they succeeded in their fight against extremists. They sacrificed their lives for the sake of the nation and we are highly proud of them,” Mr Al Mansouri said.
“We are always up for the service to the nation and anytime we are ready to give our lives for the national duty,” he said.
“We feel proud of this day and consider this a tribute to our noble martyrs. We warmly welcome them when they are back,” Mr Al Mansouri said.
“This is the great day for us,” Iman Al Baloushi said. “That’s great news that they are coming back victorious from war. We want the peace to prevail across the region and the world,” she said. “Our main intention is the safety of all people everywhere.”
All Government departments in Abu Dhabi raised the flags at their offices.
Abu Dhabi Municipality has stressed the values of allegiance and belonging and pride in the nation and its leader.
Musbbah Al Murar, acting general manager of Abu Dhabi City Municipality, said: “This exuberant and prized occasion which coincides with the 11th anniversary of His Highness taking the reins of power, prompts us to move forward with the comprehensive development drive witnessed by the UAE, which ensures dignity and self-esteem to all citizens. We beam with pride as we celebrate a new era of achievements and successes, where the brave Emirati people made many achievements at their homeland, and hoisted the UAE’s flag high,” Mr Al Murar said.
anwar@thenational.ae
