UAE Flag Day: A Celebration of Unity, Heritage, and National Pride
- 03 Nov, 2025
UAE Flag Day: A Celebration of Unity, Heritage, and National Pride
November 3, 2025 – As the UAE marks another year of celebrating its national flag. Today, the flag stands as a symbol of unity, strength, and progress for the seven emirates that make up the UAE. Its vibrant colors, each with its own deep meaning, evoke a strong sense of belonging for all who call the country home.
The origins of the UAE flag are rooted in the nation’s journey to unity. Prior to the establishment of the UAE in 1971, a nationwide competition was announced by Al Diwan Al Amiri Abu Dhabi for the design of the country’s flag. A 19-year-old Emirati, Abdulla Mohammed Al Ma’enah, answered the call and submitted six entries. His design, which stood out among over 1,030 submissions, was selected as the winner. The young designer, who was also passionate about jewellery design, worked tirelessly to perfect his creation, drawing inspiration from the poet Safi-u-ddin Al Hali’s work, which described acts as white, plains as green, battles as dark, and swords as red.
Reflecting on the moment, Al Ma’enah recalls the rush of excitement he felt after learning that his design had been chosen. "The flag is the most precious jewel I have ever designed," he said in an interview with Khaleej Times.
The flag was first hoisted on December 2, 1971, a moment that marked the historic formation of the United Arab Emirates. On that day, Founding Father Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan raised the flag in two locations: Union House in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. For Al Ma’enah, it was a moment of immense pride, as it was during this ceremony that he learned his design had been selected. In his own words, after watching the flag-raising on TV, he rushed for half an hour to Mushrif Palace in Abu Dhabi to witness the moment up close.
Today, the UAE flag’s four colors continue to hold significant meaning:
Red symbolizes the bravery, courage, and sacrifices of the UAE’s founding generations.
Green represents growth, prosperity, and the cultural development of the nation.
White stands for peace, goodness, and the country’s commitment to charitable contributions.
Black reflects strength, power, and the UAE’s firm stance against injustice and extremism.
As the nation celebrates UAE Flag Day, it is a reminder of the unity, determination, and vision that brought the Emirates together and the values that continue to guide the country forward. The flag is not only a national emblem but a testament to the shared journey of its people – one of resilience, progress, and hope for a brighter future.
Happy UAE Flag Day!
