On Friday morning, at precisely 10 AM, the UAE celebrated its 11th Flag Day, a significant occasion that holds great cultural and national importance.
Flag Day, which originated in 2013, was introduced by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, to honour Sheikh Khalifa’s accession as President of the UAE in 2004.
Although it is not a public holiday, Flag Day saw a remarkable display of unity as Sheikh Mohammed encouraged citizens, companies, and ministries to hoist the UAE flag simultaneously at 11 AM.
This synchronised act symbolised the nation’s solidarity and shared values.
Rules for displaying the UAE Flag
The display of the UAE flag is subject to stringent regulations overseen by the Emirates Authority for Standardisation and Metrology.
These regulations ensure that the flag is treated with utmost respect and dignity.
According to the guidelines, the flag should be rectangular in shape, with its height being half of its width. The colors must be arranged correctly, adhering to the specified order.
Flag owners are required to inspect their flags every 45 days to ensure they remain undamaged.
If any damage is detected, the flag must be promptly replaced within six months. For short-term flag usage, it is mandatory that the flag is made of nylon and weighs over 122.5 grams per square meter.
Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to penalties, including fines and imprisonment for those who disrespect the flag.
Celebrating Flag Day 2023
Flag Day is widely observed across the UAE, with schools, government offices, businesses, and individuals proudly displaying the national flag outside their premises.
Flag-raising ceremonies, accompanied by the stirring national anthem, are a common practice to commemorate this special occasion.
Who designed the UAE Flag?
The UAE flag, designed by Abdullah Al Maainah, is deeply revered in Emirati culture. The four colours on the flag hold significant meaning.
Red symbolises courage, green represents hope, white signifies honesty, and black denotes strength of mind. Together, these colors epitomise the unity of the Arab people.
Although the first Flag Day celebration in December 1971 saw only two flags raised—one in Abu Dhabi and the other at Union House in Dubai—the event has grown exponentially over the years.
Nowadays, hundreds of thousands of flags are proudly raised across the nation, showcasing the UAE’s unwavering spirit and patriotism.
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