Journey of a Union student Q&A

The Journey of The Union, an initiative from Al Bayt Mitwahid, an association formed by employees of the Crown Prince Court, aims to teach the pupils about the achievements of each of the emirates over the past 43 years and foster greater awareness of the path and strength that shaped the UAE.

Saif Al Qayidi says the tour has helped him acquire ‘a lot of important knowledge about my country’s heritage’. Sarah Dea / The National

As the country prepares to celebrate National Day, 28 gifted Emirati school pupils have begun their travels across the seven emirates on a journey of national identity.

The Journey of The Union, an initiative from Al Bayt Mitwahid, an association formed by employees of the Crown Prince Court, aims to teach the pupils about the achievements of each of the emirates over the past 43 years and foster greater awareness of the path and strength that shaped the United Arab Emirates.

As their journey continues, The National asked one of the students a few questions about the country they are exploring for the first time:

SAIF AL QAYIDI, 16, SHARJAH

If a visitor who had never been to the UAE was here for a day and you could show them anything, what would it be and why?

The Burj Khalifa and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. The Burj reflects development and sophistication and the mosque reflects Islamic culture. There are many [attractions] and they all symbolise our nation.

What did you learn about that you did not know before?

I have acquired a lot of important knowledge about my country’s heritage. I visited economic, cultural and political landmarks that are part of the country’s affairs and have made the Emirati people faithful to their country.

What message will you take from the Journey of the Union?

They [the emirates] were brought together through the Union and there would be no achievements without it. Sheikh Zayed started by transforming the UAE into a green paradise, until it became one of the most advanced countries in the world.

What are the ideals that you would suggest to young people to give back to their community and country?

Allegiance to our homeland; and to work with dedication and tireless perseverance.