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Celebrating the Union

The UAE will bear witness to an extravaganza today, with thousands of people across the UAE stepping out with pride, in celebration of the country’s 41st birthday.

Over the past few weeks Emiratis and expatriates alike have joined hands to commemorate the special day, which marks the eventual unification of the seven Emirates after their independence.

The Emirati people — the beating heart of the UAE — have been displaying their true patriotism in an array of elaborate events leading up to the anniversary, with many adorning their homes and cars with the colours of the UAE flag.

Sharjah will be marking the occasion with the opening ceremony of ‘Flag Island’ and the inauguration of a 123-metre high flagpole. Held at 4pm on Flag Island, crowds will witness His Highness Dr Shaikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, raise the UAE flag, with the ceremony laying host to a number of activities, including a National Day march.

Dubai will see thousands gather in Downtown for the National Day parade at 5pm. The sea of black, red, white and green will move along Emaar Boulevard in celebration of the ‘Spirit of the Union’.

With a smorgasbord of activities being hosted throughout the day in Abu Dhabi, the Capital’s skies will leave spectators in awe, as the day’s events come to a close at 8.30pm with a breathtaking display of fireworks, with some reaching as high as 600 metres.

kelly@khaleejtimes.com

• UAE