The UAE celebrate Flag Day today with flags being raised across government buildings, schools, universities, homes and workplaces. The occasion follows a national call from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who encourages citizens and residents across all seven Emirates to raise the flag as a symbol of national pride, unity and loyalty. Flag Day was introduced in 2013 and takes place annually on November 3, marking the anniversary of the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan becoming President of the UAE in 2004.
The UAE flag was first raised on December 2, 1971, by the country’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, during the formation of the federation. It was designed by Abdullah Mohammed Al Maeena, whose winning entry was selected from approximately 1,030 designs submitted to a national competition. His inspiration came from a famous poem by Arab poet Safi Al Din Al Hilli, which referenced the colours red, green, white and black.
Each of the flag’s four colours carries a special meaning. Red represents the sacrifices made by the generation that established the federation and the nation’s martyrs. Green symbolizes growth, prosperity and the natural environment, while white represents generosity, charitable work and the UAE’s commitment to peace. Black stands for the strength, determination and resilience of the country’s people, as well as their rejection of injustice and extremism.
There are also official rules governing how the national flag should be displayed and maintained. Flags must be kept clean and in good condition, with torn, faded or damaged flags replaced. They must never touch the ground when being raised or lowered, and their colours and design must not be altered. Adding logos or decorative elements is prohibited, as is printing the flag on disposable materials or using it to decorate food such as cakes and sweets. These guidelines help preserve the dignity of one of the UAE’s most important national symbols.
