5 essential facts about UAE Flag Day revealed: Symbolism, history, and celebrations

Image credit: WAM

The UAE will mark the UAE Flag Day on November 3.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, during a speech in November 2013, called upon the people of the UAE to celebrate ‘Flag Day’ on November 3rd every year as a national campaign to celebrate the anniversary of the accession of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan as President of the UAE.

He urged all Emiratis to participate in the event and called upon government entities and departments as well as ministries to hoist the national flag on buildings on this day.

The Cabinet has issued a procedural guide on the use of the UAE flag to preserve its prestige and status as a symbol of the country and national honour for the people of the UAE.

First celebrated in 2013, Flag Day is observed annually on November 3.

UAE Flag Day

Here are some facts about the symbolism behind the UAE flag‘s colors, its historical significance, and the remarkable tale of its creation.

1. Symbolism of the UAE Flag Colors: The UAE flag comprises four vibrant colors, each carrying significant symbolism. The red denotes bravery, hardiness, and strength, paying homage to the sacrifices of past generations. Green embodies hope, joy, and prosperity, showcasing the nation’s cultural renaissance. White symbolises honesty, cleanliness, and the UAE’s charitable endeavors, advocating for global peace. Lastly, black represents Emiratis’ resilience against adversaries, standing against injustice and extremism.
2.  Historical design creation: In 1971, the flag’s design emerged from a competition entry by Abdullah Mohammed Al Maainah, a young Emirati. His flag design, chosen from 1030 submissions, represented profound symbolism. For him, red signified sacrifice, reminiscent of the Ottoman flag; green mirrored the Fatimids Caliphate, while white referenced Prophet Mohammed’s early victories. Black represented the country’s historical ties and the transformative power of oil. His inspiration came from a Safieddine Al Hila poem.
3.  Inaugural flag-raising: On the historic day of the emirates’ union, December 2, 1971, the UAE’s Founding Father Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan was the first to hoist the flag, marking a significant moment in the nation’s history.
4.  Strict guidelines and protocol: The UAE flag is held to stringent standards, especially during celebratory events. It is required to be crafted from nylon, weighing a minimum of 122.5 g per square meter, ensuring its quality and adherence to national standards.
5.  Flag Day commemoration: The Flag Day observes the anniversary of Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s assumption of the presidency in 2004. This day is also dedicated to honoring the remarkable nation-building efforts initiated by the late Sheikh Zayed, the visionary founding father.

The UAE’s history is deeply associated with the country’s flag and holds great importance in commemorating the nation’s unity, heritage, and visionary leadership.