Citizens and residents across the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are preparing for the national flag high in a unified gesture of patriotism and loyalty as the country celebrates the UAE Flag Day on the 3rd of November 2025. Moreover, the occasion is the 13th anniversary of the flag day, which was the campaign introduced by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
Sheikh Mohammed called in a message shared on his official social media account, upon, “All Emiratis, residents, and institutions nationwide are encouraged to raise the UAE flag on Monday, November 3, at 11 a.m. as a symbol of unity and solidarity, reflecting our common values of patriotism, belonging, and devotion to our nation and its leadership.
A Symbol of Union and National Loyalty
Flag Day in the UAE is not an official holiday. However, it holds a deep emotional and cultural importance across the country. Every year, schools, government buildings, private offices, and homes display the UAE flag as a tribute to the leadership and its founding values of the nation.
Sheikh Mohammed highlighted that the UAE flag is a symbol of sovereignty and an emblem of our union, which reaffirms the day as an opportunity to renew loyalty to the homeland and its visionary leadership.
This celebration also honours the anniversary of the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s accession as President of the UAE in 2004. Hence, it connects the event to the enduring spirit of unity and progress of the nation.
National Month: From UAE Flag Day to Union Day
The flag day celebration starts the national month in Dubai, which is an emirate-wide celebration extending from the 3rd of November to the 2nd of December. Hence, it culminates in the 54th UAE National Day (Eid Al Etihad).
The initiative brings residents and institutions through many cultural, educational, and patriotic events designed to highlight the UAE’s history, achievements, and aspirations for the 2nd consecutive years. Also, the flag of the nation will likely decorate streets, public spaces, and landmarks across the nation.
Respecting the National Symbol
Authorities have requested residents to treat the UAE flag with the utmost respect. People should inspect the flag before raising it to ensure it isn’t damaged, torn, or faded. Moreover, the red stripe should always be on top, with the other three colours — green, white, and black — arranged vertically below it when hanging the flag in the middle of the street. Additionally, this act symbolises national pride and reverence for the values and sacrifices that the flag represents.
The Story Behind the UAE Flag
The late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan first raised the nation’s flag on the 2nd of December 1971. Hence, it marks the union of the Emirates. However, it was created by Abdullah Mohammad Al Maainah, a young Emirati who won a national competition to design the flag. Later, he served as the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the nation. Hence, it serves as a testament to how a single creative act can leave a lasting mark on the nation’s identity.
What the Colours Represent
Each colour on the UAE National Flag symbolises a deep meaning. However, the following is the list of meanings of each colour on the flag:
- Red symbolises bravery, strength, and unity, binding the other colours together.
- Green highlights hope, prosperity, and joy. However, it is a reflection of the UAE’s growth and optimism.
- White stands for peace, honesty, and purity.
- Black, contrary to misconception, signifies the defeat of enemies and the strength of mind, not oil.
Together, these colours embody the shared values that unites the diverse population of the UAE.
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