National flags raised in UAE
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, called on ministries and government departments to raise national flags across the country at 11:00am on 1 November.
The flags were raised ahead of Flag Day, which will be celebrated in the UAE on Sunday, 3 November. In his address, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid described the flag as a symbol of the country, a secret of national strength and a source of pride.
Flag Day, celebrated annually on 3 November, was established in 2013 to mark the assumption of the UAE presidency by the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan (who ruled since 2004).
The flag consists of four pan-Arab colours: white symbolises good deeds and generosity, green symbolises growth and prosperity, black symbolises strength, resilience and courage, and red represents the sacrifices made by previous generations of Emiratis to protect the nation.
At the end of October, the Dubai government announced the launch of the Zayed and Rashid initiative, which will see the emirate embark on a series of celebratory events. The campaign kicks off on 3 November and will run until 3 December, which is a whole month.
The celebrations will begin on UAE National Flag Day and end on UAE National Day. The campaign will be implemented in collaboration with 16 government, parastatal and private organisations.
It will be dedicated to the UAE’s founding fathers, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum. On 2 and 3 December, fireworks will light up the skies over Dubai’s JBR Beach, Al Seef, Hatta and Dubai Festival City Mall.
Dubai residents will be able to head to Hatta to enjoy fireworks, traditional folk dances and musical performances. Fireworks will also be launched at the Global Village theme park throughout the month.
Several seasonal markets including Beach Canteen, Ripe Market and Winter Wonderland will be participating in the celebrations – offering food, souvenirs and entertainment in a traditional Arabian theme. A ‘Unity Day Parade’ will be held on 2 December.
Source: The National
