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'Sense of pride': UAE residents watch fighter jets fly past at Day of Solidarity parade
"People around me were not cheering or clapping. We all knew why the planes were flying today," an Ajman resident said
- PUBLISHED: Sat 17 Jan 2026, 6:03 PM UPDATED: Sat 17 Jan 2026, 8:12 PM
Residents gathered along beaches on Saturday evening saw military aircrafts flying in V-shaped formation, marking UAE's Day of Solidarity, which was observed in remembrance of the January 17, 2022 attack on a civilian site in the country.
As these mighty machines passed across the sky, many recorded the moment on their phones, while others watched in silence. Residents and children lined up at the corniche, looking up as the aircraft moved in formation over Dubai, Sharjah and Ajman.
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The nationwide aerial parade, organised by the UAE Armed Forces, took place across all seven emirates at designated locations. The fly-past symbolised unity, strength and solidarity, and remembering a difficult moment in the country’s history.
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The Day of Solidarity was announced to honour the victims of the 2022 attack and to reaffirm the nation’s commitment to protecting its people and preserving stability.
For many residents at Buhaira Corniche, the fly-past was both emotional and educational.
“We read about the Day of Solidarity in the news, and my children kept asking why the planes would fly today,” said Ahmed Karim, a Sharjah resident who came with his family.
“We decided to come here and watch together. I explained to them that this is not a show for fun, but a reminder of something serious that happened and how the country stayed strong.”
At Al Zohra Beach, some residents watched the flypast, trying to understand the meaning behind the Day of Solidarity rather than treating it as an air show.
“People around me were not cheering or clapping. We all knew why the planes were flying today,” said Aisha Mehreen, a resident of Ajman.
“It reminded us of that day we read about in the news, and of how important it is to stay united and grateful for the safety we have,” said Mehreen.
Mohammed Ruman, who has lived in Sharjah for over a decade, said he felt a sense of pride seeing the aircraft fly. “There is no music or celebratory mood here. People are calm. Everyone understands why this is happening. It’s about remembering, not entertainment.”
Authorities had shared timings and locations so residents could watch the aerial parade safely.
In a message marking the occasion, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE said the day reflects the strength and unity of the UAE’s people and their determination to safeguard the country and its future.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai also highlighted that the occasion is a reminder of the nation's shared values and collective responsibility.
The country is marking the fourth anniversary of the 2022 Houthi attack on civilian infrastructure in Abu Dhabi. Three were killed and six injured as three petroleum tankers exploded after strikes on Musaffah ICAD 3 area and a construction site at Abu Dhabi International Airport.
SM Ayaz Zakir is a Senior Correspondent with a flair for extraordinary stories. His playground? Every corner of the UAE. He often ventures into remote corners of the country to capture compelling news and human interest stories.
