UAE President Declares July 18th as Union Pledge Day

  • Publish date: Thursday، 18 July 2024 | Last update: Tuesday، 10 December 2024
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In a significant move to honor the history of the United Arab Emirates, President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has officially declared July 18th as Union Pledge Day.

Making the announcement on the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), Sheikh Mohamed shared the importance of this date, stating, "On this day in 1971, the founding father and his fellow rulers signed the Document of Union and the Constitution of the Emirates, and announced the name of our state, the United Arab Emirates, in preparation for union on December 2."

He emphasized that July 18 was a historic day, marking the establishment of the foundations of the Union. Going forward, this date will be celebrated annually as "Union Pledge Day," commemorating the significant steps taken to establish the UAE.

In 2024, the UAE will celebrate 53 years since its formation in 1971. The nation, comprised of seven emirates—Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain, and Fujairah—was unified in 1971 following the departure of the British. Before unification, each emirate functioned as an independent princely state.

Union Pledge Day will join other national celebrations, including UAE National Day on December 2, which marks the formal unification of the emirates. During National Day, the country is adorned in the colors of the UAE flag—red, green, white, and black—with various activities and festivities taking place. Both public and private sectors are given a public holiday to partake in the celebrations.

Additionally, Commemoration Day, previously known as Martyrs’ Day, is observed annually on December 1 to honor the sacrifices of the nation's martyrs. In 2024, this day falls on a Sunday, followed by National Day celebrations on December 2 and 3, which fall on Monday and Tuesday, potentially resulting in a four-day weekend for many residents. Official announcements regarding the holiday schedule will be made closer to the date.

This new annual celebration, Union Pledge Day, will serve as a poignant reminder of the UAE's journey and the vision of its founding leaders, reinforcing the nation's commitment to unity and progress.