UAE marks Flag Day with ceremonies honoring national unity and pride

The United Arab Emirates marked Flag Day on Monday with ceremonies across the country, celebrating national unity, loyalty, and pride in the nation’s identity.

President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan raised the UAE flag at Qasr Al Hosn in Abu Dhabi, joined by a group of retired Emirati service personnel recognized for their long-standing contributions to national development, WAM reported.

The ceremony included the UAE national anthem and honored the role of citizens who have served in shaping the country’s progress.

Sheikh Mohamed said the flag stands as a symbol of “national pride and unity,” adding that the presence of retired personnel reflected the dedication of generations who have worked to uphold the country’s values. He reaffirmed that their knowledge and experience remain a “valuable national asset” for future generations.

First celebrated in 2013, UAE Flag Day commemorates the anniversary of the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s accession as president in 2004. The event, though not a public holiday, has become a key moment in the national calendar, leading into the Union Day celebrations in December.

Across the country, public institutions, schools, and private organizations displayed the flag, while authorities reminded citizens to follow official flag-raising etiquette — including approved flag and pole dimensions — as a sign of respect.

The UAE national flag, designed in 1971 by Abdullah Al Maeena, features the four Pan-Arab colors — red, green, white, and black — symbolizing courage, prosperity, peace, and strength.

Under the law, desecrating or insulting the UAE flag carries penalties of up to 25 years in prison and fines of at least 500,000 dirhams.