The Spirit of the Union

History

It all started on a small hill. A small hill on the Abu Dhabi side of the border close to Al Shameeh, to be precise. That hill was named Seih Al Sedira. It was on this hill that unity and independence first became a reality in the United Arab Emirates. 

The year was 1968, and the control of the British Empire was flailing. The British government found no reason to renew its presence in the UAE and quickly left. In the wake of British absence, a meeting was held between Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Makhtoum. The outcome was unity for a divided nation, cementing a bond that still exists today.

Although the British departed in 1968, the National Day celebrations started three years afterwards, in 1971, when the Emirates federal constitution approved the change. 

Every year, two days are dedicated wholeheartedly to unification. An annual spectacle that celebrates the coming together of seven states into one vibrant nation. This event is the United Arab Emirates International Day. It transcends border lines at the beginning of every December and produces a riveting melting pot of cultural and philosophical flavour. 

To those new to the celebration, it is effortless to get swept up in the party atmosphere. Carnivals engulf the seven nations in a festive embrace, offering the essence of Arab culture on a plate. 2021 promises to provide an unforgettable event, the 50th anniversary of the original six (now seven) Emirates uniting under a Federal Constitution. This year's celebrations promise to be the biggest yet. 

50th Anniversary Celebrations

The day marks a peaceful transition; it flags up when a divided nation came together for reasons of solidarity. The day signifies freedom. The UAE contended with friction and subsequent treaties with the British Empire going back as far as the dawn of the 19th century. However, from the end of 1971, the region was free and slowly took steps to become the place it is today. 

The UAE Nation Day of 2021 celebrations will be broadcast live worldwide  To those who are unaware of the festivities; they will be held in Hatta, home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the whole of the country. Onlookers will be treated to musical, visual and edible feasts, all in the spirit of harmony. 

We at Astutis are proud of our continued work in the United Arab Emirates. Making the world a safer place has always been our goal and we take pride in our efforts thus far. However, there is no room for complacency in health and safety especially if lives are at risk. Health and safety has never been more important than it is today and our continued presence in the United Arab Emirates promises to provide improved safety and good health to everyone who seeks it.  

We are delighted to celebrate 50 years of unity, independence and freedom in the UAE. Nothing will dampen the Spirit of the Union. 

Here’s to the next fifty,

Astutis.