By : News Editor
Jordan Daily – President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has designated July 18 as “Union Pledge Day,” in commemoration of the historic meeting on this day in 1971. This meeting marked the moment when the country’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, alongside the Rulers of the emirates, signed the declaration of the Union and the UAE Constitution, formally announcing the United Arab Emirates’ official name.
This historic assembly was a critical step toward establishing a federation of emirates on December 2, 1971.
On this occasion, President Sheikh Mohamed remarked that July 18, 1971, stands as one of the most significant dates in the UAE’s history, as the declaration of the Union and the signing of the UAE Constitution laid the groundwork for the nation’s establishment on December 2.
He further noted that Union Pledge Day is an opportunity to honor the UAE’s storied journey, extract valuable lessons for the present and future, and renew the nation’s commitment to unity and progress under the guidance of God Almighty and in service to the people of the UAE.
Union Pledge Day joins the ranks of other national observances in the UAE, including Union Day, Flag Day, and Commemoration Day.
The new national holiday aims to reinforce the foundational values and principles set by the late Sheikh Zayed and his fellow Rulers, which continue to underpin the nation’s progress. The day is also intended to educate the youth about the country’s history and the sacrifices made to achieve the historic union.
The announcement of Union Pledge Day underscores the UAE leadership’s dedication to strengthening national identity and fostering a sense of belonging and loyalty among its citizens as the country continues its trajectory toward a more prosperous future.
President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan shared the declaration on the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter).
“On this day in 1971, the founding father and his fellow rulers signed the Document of Union and the Constitution of the Emirates, and announced the name of our state, the United Arab Emirates, in preparation for union on December 2,” Sheikh Mohamed’s post stated.
“It was a historic day in which they established the era and foundations of the Union,” he added, concluding by declaring that henceforth, July 18 will be recognized as “Union Pledge Day,” a national occasion to celebrate the country’s history and the foundational steps toward establishing the Union.
In 2024, the UAE is celebrating 53 years since its formation in 1971. The UAE comprises seven emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain, and Fujairah.
Before the unification in 1971, each emirate operated as an independent princely state. The formation of the UAE followed the departure of the British, culminating in the unification of the seven emirates into the United Arab Emirates.
