Today's Edition
BATOOL GHAITH (ABU DHABI)
Residents across the emirates are marking UAE Flag Day with heartfelt tributes and personal reflections, as they proudly raise the flag to celebrate the occasion.
Flag Day is held every year on November 3, commemorating the accession of the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan to the Presidency in 2004.
First marked in 2013 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, the occasion has since become a powerful symbol of national unity and belonging.
For Rania Abusido, a Jordanian who has called Abu Dhabi home for over seven years, Flag Day is a moment of reflection.
“The UAE gave me stability, growth, and a sense of purpose. Every time I see the flag raised, I am reminded of how lucky I am to live in a place that respects dreams and diversity,” Abusido told Aletihad.
“Happy Flag Day to this beautiful country that welcomed me like family, and one of the safest places I have ever been in,” she said.
Ahmed Sabri, a 34-year-old Egyptian engineer, expressed the same gratitude.
“I have been here for three years, and the UAE became home to me and given me the opportunity to learn and grow not only professionally, but personally,” Sabri told Aletihad.
“Today, I celebrate with my colleagues, my kids and my neighbours on this beautiful occasion and I wish prosperity for all Emiratis,” he added.
Uttara, an Indian expat who moved to the UAE last year, is experiencing her first Flag Day.
“Even though I am relatively new here, I already feel included. This is what makes the UAE special. I feel at ease here and I feel welcomed among everyone. Thank you, UAE, for giving us an opportunity to build a beautiful life here,” she told Aletihad.
