From the country’s leaders to Emiratis and expatriates, people were out in their thousands to celebrate the annual Flag Day.
In Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, raised the nation's flag in Zabeel Park in the presence of more than 20,000 school children from 120 countries – all of whom call the UAE home.
Also present as he raised the flag on a 12-metre flag pole was his daughter, Sheikha Jalila bint Mohammed, as well as several senior Government officials.
Flag Day is marked on November 3 each year as a way of celebrating the anniversary of the President, Sheikh Khalifa, assuming office as leader of the country 12 years ago now.
The day was launched by Sheikh Mohammed in 2013 and has become more popular each year since.
Flag-raising events took place across the country and, in the capital, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, was in attendance for a ceremony at the ministry’s headquarters on Thursday.
Sheikh Abdullah congratulated top ministry officials, heads of departments and employees on the national occasion, wishing them success.
Also in Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak, Minister of Culture and Knowledge Development, raised a flag at the National Theatre following a walkathon attended by more than 2,000 people from all segments of society.
The short walk from Al Jazeera Sports Club to the theatre included writers, poets, artists, police, members of the Armed Forces and local leaders.
Sheikh Nahyan also inaugurated a flag exhibition that has more than 120 artists participating and launched the Raise It High initiative, which aims to engage people online in Flag Day.
Flag Day is a day of belonging and pride for the homeland under Sheikh Khalifa’s presidency, said Dr Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of State and chairman of the board of directors of National Media Council.
“Today, we recall the bright stages in the development process and the country’s renaissance to accomplish prosperity and progress of its people in various areas in order to keep the homeland a hub of security and stability,” Dr Al Jaber said.
Rulers raised flags in their emirates.
In Umm Al Quwain, Sheikh Saud bin Rashid said at a ceremony in Khour Park: “Sheikh Khalifa has been leading the nation towards development, progress and prosperity. He has placed the nation on the orbit of happiness, harnessed its resources to solidify the union and launched a national strategy to groom a capable, mature generation.”
In Fujairah, Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed raised a flag at his palace in Al Rumailah.
“The flag is a responsibility that we have received from the Founding Fathers. It is a responsibility in the hands of my brother, President Sheikh Khalifa, and in the hands of each citizen and future generations to maintain it and enhance its gains.
“Long live our flag, long live the union and long live our proud country.”
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