UAE President Declares July 18 as Union Pledge Day to Mark Historic Path to Unification

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan declared July 18 as Union Pledge Day in 2024, a symbolic occasion reflecting unity, pride, and national identity.

The UAE President announced the news through his official social media accounts, stating: On this day in 1971, the Founding Father and his fellow Rulers signed the Declaration of the Union and the UAE Constitution, announcing the name of our country, the Emirates, ahead of the union's formation on December 2.

He further wrote: July 18 was a historic day on which the foundations and pillars of the union were established.

The UAE President concluded by announcing that July 18 will henceforth be a national occasion titled Union Pledge Day, during which the country will honor its history and the blessed steps that led to the establishment of the union.

Key information you should know

This year, the UAE celebrates the 54th anniversary of its formation in 1971. The UAE consists of seven emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain, and Fujairah. Prior to the unification of these seven emirates, each was an independent sheikhdom.

The union was formed on December 2, 1971, coinciding with the British withdrawal and the establishment of the United Arab Emirates. This occasion is now known in the UAE as Eid Al Etihad, which was previously called Union Day and UAE National Day, and should not be confused with Union Pledge Day.

How the UAE marks Union Pledge Day

The day is observed with flag-raising ceremonies at government buildings, schools, and private institutions across the UAE.

This year, the Zayed National Museum is hosting a series of heritage performances, storytelling, free workshops, and community programs over a weekend to mark the occasion, highlighting the values that unify the UAE.

Union Pledge Day is the UAE's fourth national occasion, following Eid Al Etihad on December 2, Flag Day on November 3, and Commemoration Day on December 1.

What happens during other national occasions?

UAE Flag Day is held on November 3 and is marked across the country by raising the UAE flag on government and private buildings. This day also marks the anniversary of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan becoming President of the UAE in 2004.

On Eid Al Etihad on December 2, the entire UAE is decorated in the colors of the national flag: red, green, white, and black. Numerous cultural programs are also held to celebrate the country's unification.

Prior to Union Day, the UAE observes Commemoration Day, formerly known as Martyrs' Day, on December 1, an occasion of similar significance. This day commemorates the passing of Salem Suhail Khamis, who died on this date in 1971 and is said to be the first Emirati citizen killed in military service following the country's formation that year.

While public holidays are typically granted for the aforementioned occasions, it should be noted that Union Pledge Day is not a public holiday.