Ever since it was a holiday started by HH Sh. Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum (Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai) on November 3, 2013, Flag Day turned out to be a national occasion that brings UAE citizens and residents together. It’s about patriotism to the land, the nation and the wise leadership working constantly for the happiness of the people.
Flag Day is not just an official celebration, but a popular occasion for patriotic love. You can see flags waving everywhere as a show of the love citizens and residents alike have for this country.
Obviously, the UAE became synonymous with prosperity, security, tolerance and moderation. These values are deeply grounded in the reality of this country, and not merely catchy slogans. In this Gulf nation, everyone is treated equally and the only thing that makes a difference is wellbeing, growth and staying a competitive nation.
Many countries celebrate flag days but in the Emirates, it is not only about identity, but also of love, being part of this nation, and standing united behind one leadership. Through such national events, national culture is passed to the next generation. Our youth are now aware of the extent to which their parents love the homeland, in a region of the world where identities are under a constant, existential threat.
The four-colored flag is the symbol of national identity, dignity and pride. To citizens, the flag of our country means hope in a better life and how it’s possible for an Arab and Muslim country to be modern and successful. In this year, flag day coincides with the launch of the first 100% Emirati-made satellite and the tenth overall. Khalifa Sat was recently launched successfully from the Tanegashima Space Center in Japan. In the fourth industrial revolution, technology, AI, robotics, space technology and 3D printing are factors that could change how countries rank economically. So the new advanced satellite paves the way for the UAE to a new phase in the state-of-the-art infrastructure and space industry.
Also special about this flag day is that the UAE passport just got stronger. UAE nationals can visit more countries without visa. According to Passport Index, the blue passport ranks fourth globally.
We have a clear vision about our global competitiveness and we want to be in the world’s top five by 2021, that’s five decades after the establishment of the Union. The late founding leader Sh. Zayed bin Sultan, God bless his soul, wanted a pioneer country in the citizen-centered use of natural resources. With a strong foundation and a firm approach, he had what he wanted. But the journey continues with HHS Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and his brother, HHS Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum (Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai) along with HHS Mohammed bin Zayed (Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces).
The Flag Day is a day of gratitude, expression of love and loyalty to a generous land and a leadership that’s all about the happiness of the people. Long live the flag of the Emirates, Arab and united. And may the emirates remain a source of pride for its sons and all Arabs.
