Today's Edition
MUDHI ALOBTHANI (ABU DHABI)
The March of the Union on Thursday gathered tribes from across the Emirates in a grand display of national unity, pride, and love of country. It was a spectacle that evoked a sense of belonging not only among the citizens who gathered at the Sheikh Zayed Festival in Al Wathba, but also among the expatriates who witnessed the celebrations.
Tribesmen marched from Al Hosn Gate, waving flags and singing traditional songs that reflected their pride in the strength of the Union and their support for the country's leadership.
The parade also featured traditional performances including Al Azi, Al Ayyala, and Al Nadb, alongside horse and camel shows and Emirati “tashoulib” rifle displays. The UAE’s Al Fursan aerobatic team painted the sky with the colours of the national flag, adding a dramatic visual highlight to the event.
Indian expat Elizabeth Darla, who has been living in the UAE for 29 years now, witnessed the annual march for the first time and was left in awe.
“It was fascinating just to watch the unity of the nation — how the leaders work towards holding the country together. On one side were the beautiful women in black abaya and on the other a sea of white. It was a brilliant sight,” she said.
“My son was part of the casting crew and told us about the parade. I’m so proud to see young Emirati boys and girls performing spectacular stunts with the horses and camels.”
Darla saw the event as a reflection of the UAE’s cultural foundation that remained strong even in the middle of rapid modernisation.
“The UAE holds, at its core, the value of culture and unity. My children were born here, and this country has shared so much generosity and opportunity with people from more than 200 nationalities. This is our home, and I’m very grateful,” she said.
Also attending the parade for the first time was Alia Sheikh Maa Al-Ainin from Mauritania, a 21-year-old resident who has lived in the UAE since 2003. As she watched the celebration of heritage and identity, Al-Ainin said she saw “unity, loyalty and a vision for a bright future”.
“This parade reflects the people’s love for their leaders and their country,” she said.
Through the displays, Al-Ainin understood how the tribes play a pivotal role in preserving Emirati heritage.
“The people represent the nation. They carry the traditions and share them with others. They showcase Emirati customs, clothing, and identity to the world,” she said.
Across the globe, the Emirati culture is now widely recognised as symbols of Arab identity, she noted. “Emirati culture has become a global reference, and that’s something beautiful.”
