Residents of the UAE left their homes in masses on Tuesday to celebrate as one the Spirit of the Union.
The country was awash in the colours of the flag as Emiratis and expats joined to mark the anniversary of the day separate emirates became one nation.
It was a day for parades, picnics and, of course, cars – brightly coloured, boisterous cars – in all of the emirates, and a night for dazzling fireworks displays
In Abu Dhabi the Corniche drew most of the crowds, who were treated to a precision flying performance by the UAE Air Force’s Al Fursan team.
Then it was time to cheer on the drivers who – bumper to bumper – honked horns and pushed sound systems to the limit.
A day of Emirati culture, along with souqs and exhibits, also attracted its share of residents to the Heritage Village.
“I’m very happy this National Day,” said Emirati Hoda Al Janabi, 32, who was there to show her daughters, aged 3 and 8 months, their heritage.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, attended the flag-raising ceremony and parade at the Breakwater. Crown Prince of Dubai Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed was also there.
“On this festive day, Emiratis express their loyalty and gratitude to the founding fathers who, with the help of Allah Almighty, believed in the idea of the Federation,” Sheikh Mohammed said.
At the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, watched a military parade with King Mohammed VI of Morocco.
In Dubai, there was a boat procession at the Marina, a historic photography exhibition and spectacular fireworks.
Majed Al Khoory, 45, an Emirati, was among the crowds gathered in Dubai’s beaches, parks and the Downtown area.
“We’re going to the Creek later in the evening as I think it will be a nice evening to be outside sharing the holiday with others,” he said. “It truly amazes me how much this country has changed in such a short period of time.
“Each time we celebrate National Day it seems like it follows a year of new achievements.”
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