A Celebration of Unity, Heritage, and Vision
The Founding Spirit of 1971
Symbols of Heritage
National Day Collection
54 Years of the United Arab Emirates
From Heritage to Global Achievement
Honoring the Spirit of the Union
A Celebration of Unity, Heritage, and Vision
The story of the United Arab Emirates is one of unity, determination and vision. In 1971, the seven Emirates came together under the leadership of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, forming a nation built on cooperation and shared purpose. What began as a small union rooted in tradition has grown into one of the world’s most dynamic and forward-thinking countries. From its early days shaped by desert life and pearl diving to its rise as a global center of culture, innovation and modern living, the UAE’s journey reflects its people’s resilience and ambition. Today, the nation continues to honor its heritage while confidently shaping a brighter future.
The Founding Spirit of 1971
The unification of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah, later joined by Ras Al Khaimah, marked the beginning of one of the UAE’s most extraordinary national journeys. Under the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the Founding Fathers, the Emirates grew into a nation built on unity, shared purpose and a deep respect for its heritage, all while embracing a future shaped by innovation and opportunity.
The UAE flag, introduced in 1971, reflects this spirit with colors that tell the story of the nation: green for growth, white for peace, black for strength and red for unity. On National Day, it becomes a symbol that brings every Emirate and every generation together. It waves above skylines, appears across streets and homes, and stands as a proud reminder of the values that continue to guide the United Arab Emirates.
Image from Finnsaway
Symbols of Heritage: The Flag, Historic Mosques and Fujairah Fort
The UAE’s heritage is reflected in the symbols and places that have shaped its identity, beginning with the national flag. Created in 1971 by a young Emirati, Abdullah Mohammed Al Maainah, the flag was selected from more than a thousand designs submitted during the formation of the nation. Its four colors represent the spirit of the Emirates: red for courage, green for growth, white for peace and black for strength. When it was raised for the first time on December 2nd, 1971, it became an enduring emblem of unity and pride.
Across the country, historic mosques preserve the spiritual and cultural foundations of the Emirates. In Fujairah, the Al Bidya Mosque, believed to date back to the fifteenth century, is the oldest in the nation. Built from earth, stone and hand-crafted plaster, its modest domes and intimate prayer hall reflect the simplicity and devotion of early Emirati life. Similar echoes of tradition can be found in Sharjah and Al Ain, where long-standing mosques continue to anchor communities and offer a glimpse into the region’s earliest architecture.
Standing proudly in Fujairah is one of the UAE’s most significant heritage sites, the Fujairah Fort. Built in the late sixteenth century, it served both as a defensive stronghold and as a residence for the ruling family. Its thick walls and commanding presence once safeguarded the coastline and vital trade routes. Today, carefully restored, it remains a symbol of resilience and leadership, connecting the nation’s past with the progress celebrated in the present.
Together, the flag, the historic mosques and the enduring fort reflect the depth of the UAE’s identity. They are reminders of a heritage that continues to inspire the country’s journey forward and enrich every celebration of National Day.
Sands UAE Presents the National Day Collection
At Sands UAE, we see National Day as a moment to celebrate the values that shape the Emirates: unity, heritage and quiet elegance. For this year’s Eid Al Etihad, we are proud to introduce our UAE National Day Collection, a refined selection of pieces inspired by the colors of the flag.
The collection features Goyard in striking shades of red, white, black and green, Polène designs known for their soft sculptural forms and timeless simplicity, and classic Hermès creations that will always feel iconic. Each piece has been chosen to reflect the pride and beauty of the day, offering a meaningful way to celebrate the Emirates through craftsmanship and style.
Whether selected as a personal keepsake or a thoughtful gift, these items carry the spirit of the UAE and the elegance that defines its story.
54 Years of the United Arab Emirates
This year marks 54 years since the founding of the United Arab Emirates, a milestone that reflects one of the most extraordinary nation-building journeys of our time. In just over five decades, the UAE has transformed from a collection of small coastal communities into a global hub of innovation, culture and ambition. The progress achieved across these 54 years is a testament to the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the Founding Fathers, whose commitment to unity laid the foundation for a nation defined by possibility. Today, the Emirates continue to move forward with confidence, honoring traditions while embracing the future, and welcoming the world with a spirit of openness, pride and sophistication.
From Heritage to Global Achievement
In just over five decades, the UAE has accomplished what many nations spend centuries striving for. Today, it stands as one of the world’s most diverse and welcoming countries, home to more than 200 nationalities who live, work and thrive together. Its cities are known for their visionary skylines, cultural institutions of global significance and achievements that capture the world’s attention, from the Burj Khalifa to the groundbreaking Hope Probe mission to Mars.
Yet despite its remarkable progress, the UAE has never lost sight of its heritage. Emirati traditions such as poetry, falconry, craftsmanship and the spirit of hospitality continue to shape daily life, offering a meaningful connection to the nation’s roots. This harmony between ambition and tradition is what makes the UAE truly exceptional, and why National Day remains a powerful celebration of both the journey behind us and the future still unfolding.
Record-Breaking Moments in UAE National Day History
Honoring the Spirit of the Union
UAE National Day is a celebration of unity, heritage and national pride, honoring the moment the seven Emirates came together to shape a shared future. It reflects the country’s remarkable journey and its vision for continued progress. Learn more and explore the UAE National Day story with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
