UAE Declares July 18 as Union Pledge Day to Honor Nation’s Journey

UAE Declares July 18 as Union Pledge Day to Honor Founding History

President Sheikh Mohamed has declared that July 18 will be known as Union Pledge Day to mark its significance in the UAE’s history. This date commemorates the historic events of 1971 when the UAE Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, signed the declaration of the Union and the Constitution, officially naming the country as the United Arab Emirates. This declaration reflects the UAE’s commitment to celebrating its rich history and the pivotal moments that have shaped its identity.

Historical Significance

On July 18, 1971, the Founding Father and the Rulers signed the declaration of the Union and the UAE Constitution, formally announcing the name of the country: the United Arab Emirates. This momentous occasion laid the foundations for the nation’s official establishment on December 2, 1971. President Sheikh Mohamed emphasized this historical importance on social media, particularly on X (formerly known as Twitter), highlighting the day as a cornerstone in the nation’s journey.

Sheikh Mohamed’s Announcement

“On this day in 1971, the Founding Father and his brothers the Rulers signed the declaration of the Union and the UAE Constitution while announcing the name of our country: the United Arab Emirates,” Sheikh Mohamed stated on X. “In preparation for the nation’s establishment on December 2, it was a historic day on which they laid the foundations of the Union. Today, we declare July 18 as Union Pledge Day, a national occasion to celebrate the history of our country and the blessed journey towards establishing the Union.”

Commitment to Unity and Progress

Sheikh Mohamed added that Union Pledge Day is an occasion to renew the country’s commitment to preserving unity and progress, as reported by the state news agency WAM. This new national occasion joins other significant days such as Union Day, Flag Day, and Commemoration Day. It underscores the continuous journey towards building a cohesive and progressive society, reflecting the nation’s values and aspirations.

Promotion of National Values

Union Pledge Day aims to promote the national values and principles established by Sheikh Zayed when the country was founded. The day is also intended to raise awareness among younger generations about the country’s history and the sacrifices and efforts made to establish the UAE. This educational aspect ensures that the legacy of the Founding Fathers is preserved and understood by future generations, fostering a sense of pride and responsibility.

Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed’s Statement

“On this date, the founding fathers signed the Union Document and they drafted the state’s Constitution, and here we are today celebrating this covenant and immortalizing it in the nation’s memory and the conscience of its people,” Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, said on X. He described it as “a historic day that embodies the values of unity and solidarity among the people of the Emirates.”

Dr. Anwar Gargash’s Comments

Dr. Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to President Sheikh Mohamed, highlighted that Union Pledge Day “strengthens the national narrative of the Emirates and commemorates a memory that represents a national symbol of unity and renaissance.” He also stated that the date represents “a turning point in our blessed journey with the determination and sound vision of the founding leaders.”

Union Pledge Day is a testament to the UAE’s dedication to honoring its history and the enduring values of unity, progress, and national pride. By marking this date, the nation not only commemorates its past achievements but also reinforces its commitment to a bright and unified future. This new national occasion serves as a reminder of the collective efforts and visionary leadership that have shaped the UAE, inspiring current and future generations to continue building on this legacy.

In celebrating Union Pledge Day, the UAE pays tribute to the visionaries who laid its foundations and reaffirms its commitment to unity and progress. This day stands as a symbol of the nation’s journey, reflecting the UAE’s enduring spirit and its aspirations for a prosperous and harmonious future