H.E. Dr. Rashid Ahmad Bin Fahad, Minister of Environment and Water, has led the Ministry’s celebration of UAE Flag Day at its headquarters in Dubai. The annual celebration is in accordance with the directives of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, to hoist the UAE flag at the federal offices, ministries and departments every November 3rd of the year at noon.
H.E. Bin Fahad said: “The national event, which brings together all UAE nationals, commemorates H.H. Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s accession as President of the UAE. It is also an expression of loyalty and unity among all citizens and residents of our country, which embraces different nationalities from around the world. The event gives us an opportunity to renew and reiterate our patriotism to our wise leaders, who spare no effort in order to provide everyone with prosperous and stable life.”
He added: “Our people celebrate Flag Day to celebrate the day our founders first hoisted our national flag 43 years ago. We recall their sacrifices as well as their achievements and accomplishments that cemented our status as among the most progressive countries in the world.”
H.E. Bin Fahad called on the Ministry’s employees to make sacrifices to preserve the country’s unity, acknowledge the significance of the UAE flag, take into heart its meaning, and keep it flying with pride and dignity.
H.E. Bin Fahad and the Ministry’s employees signed a commemorative plaque during the ceremony. The Ministry also distributed flags to its employees, partners and the public who attended the event. A performance showing the sacrifices of the country’s forefathers were also held.
One of the highlights of the celebration was narrating the history of the UAE flag, which is the symbol of the country’s independence and sovereignty. The flag was based on an Emirati citizen’s design that won in a competition launched for that purpose. A photo gallery, titled ‘A Flag Over Our House,’ showcased home photos of the Ministry’s staff who attended last year’s commemoration.
The ceremony concluded with H.E. Bin Fahad honoring all those who contributed and participated in the Ministry’s UAE Flag Day celebration including the team members who were behind the success of the photo gallery.