H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mu’alla, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Umm Al Qaiwain, affirmed that Flag Day celebrations renew loyalty and allegiance to the nation and its leadership while reflecting pride in the UAE flag as a symbol of sovereignty, unity and national belonging. The Emirates News Agency reported that Sheikh Saud bin Rashid said the occasion also serves as a reminder of the national responsibility to continue working with dedication and sincerity to preserve the country’s standing and progress. According to the agency, the Ruler described how hearts unite under one flag in a display that reflects the depth of belonging to the United Arab Emirates.
“On Flag Day, hearts unite under one flag in a national display that reflects the depth of our belonging to the United Arab Emirates. We proudly raise our nation’s flag as a symbol of its sovereignty, dignity and identity, uniting the people of the UAE through shared values of loyalty, belonging and a common purpose and destiny,” Sheikh Saud said. Sheikh Saud added that the UAE flag embodies the country’s achievements and gains and reflects the values of loyalty and responsibility upheld by Emiratis throughout the nation’s history. The Ruler further affirmed that under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan the flag will remain a symbol of sovereignty and unity.
The statement from Sheikh Saud bin Rashid was issued on November 3, 2026, as the UAE observed its annual Flag Day, an occasion that Gulf News said brings Emiratis and residents together in expressions of loyalty to the country and its leadership. The National reported that Flag Day was established in 2013 by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, and has become a staple of the national calendar. Celebrations saw flags raised at government buildings, schools and private homes in a coordinated show of unity.
Gulf News reported that similar remarks came from other leaders including Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who raised the flag at Qasr Al Muwaiji in Al Ain to mark the day. The ceremony there featured the national anthem and participation by inspiring families along with People of Determination from the region. Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed emphasised the site’s connection to the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the foundations of the Union.
The UAE national flag was designed by Abdullah Mohammed Al Maainah, who won a 1971 competition organised by Al Ittihad newspaper, The National has reported. Wikipedia entries on the flag note that it was officially adopted on December 2, 1971, coinciding with the formation of the federation, and incorporates the four pan-Arab colours. The National has detailed how the flag was first raised that year at Union House in Dubai and later at the United Nations headquarters in New York.
Flag Day observances on November 3 focus on the flag’s role in fostering national identity separate from the December 2 Union anniversary, according to reports from The National. The Emirates News Agency noted that Sheikh Saud bin Rashid’s comments underscored how the symbol inspires continued service to the nation. Multiple outlets reported that the day’s events reinforced shared values across all seven emirates.
