Flag Day is an important event celebrated in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) each year on November 3. In 2023, it falls on a Friday.
It is the anniversary of when His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan (Sheikh Khalifa) became President of the UAE. He took the position on November 3, 2004.
UAE Flag Day was first observed in 2013. The idea of this national occasion was conceived by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum (Sheikh Mohammed), Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and ruler of Dubai.
Flag Day provides people with an opportunity to recognise what makes them proud to be part of a unified nation that continues to make strides towards development despite challenging times.
History of the UAE Flag
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) flag is a symbol of pride and patriotism for citizens of the UAE. The flag was adopted in 1971, when the UAE became an independent country.
A young Emirati named Abdulla Mohammed Al Maainah was the one who designed the flag.
The flag of the United Arab Emirates incorporates the Pan-Arab colours. It is composed of three equal horizontal bands of green, white, and black, with a vertical red bar on the hoist side.
On this page, you can find more information about the origins of the flag, its design, the special meaning of the colours, its place in Emirati culture, and images to download.
The Importance of UAE Flag Day
UAE Flag Day is a special day that was declared by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in 2013, to honour the United Arab Emirates’ flag and its symbolism.
This celebration serves as an opportunity for all citizens of the nation to come together and show their pride in being part of such a diverse country. It has become an annual event with numerous activities held throughout the UAE, ranging from parades and exhibitions to concerts and fireworks displays.
The UAE flag is flown at government offices and buildings, businesses, schools, and homes all over the Emirates. Flag-raising ceremonies take place at 11 am. Emiratis sing the national anthem while the flag is being raised.
On this day, people take extra care to display flags on their homes or businesses. The significance of Flag Day also lies in its educational purpose; it teaches younger generations about national identity and instills in them a sense of belonging to their country.
Not only does Flag Day bring individuals closer together, but it also helps create better understanding between communities living side-by-side regardless of race or religion.
The National Anthem of the UAE
The national anthem of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is called “Ishy Bilady,” or “Long Live My Country” in English, and it was written by Aref Al Sheikh with music composed by Mohammed Abdel Wahab.
In all of the United Arab Emirates, singing the national anthem is now an important part of Flag Day celebrations.Thousands of people gather in front of large flags raised high to sing patriotic songs with their hands over their hearts, a true symbol of national unity.
This tradition brings together people of all ages and backgrounds, demonstrating how much UAE citizens love their country.
Creative Ways to Celebrate UAE Flag Day
There are a multitude of fun activities that can help people celebrate at home or in public. From decorating your house with flags to sharing artwork inspired by national pride, no matter how you choose to mark the occasion, it’s sure to be an unforgettable celebration.
One idea is to host a picnic or BBQ while waving your flag proudly. Try cooking up some local dishes.
Going out into nature is another great way of celebrating. If you’re going on a hike, make sure to take along a special flag as part of your journey.
You could also stay inside and make crafts like bunting banners or canvas paintings with parts of the country’s symbol.
Whatever activity you choose, spending Flag Day with family and friends who share similar values of patriotism will make it more memorable.
Is UAE Flag Day a Public Holiday?
Unlike UAE National Day, UAE Flag Day is not a public holiday.
