As UAE residents enjoy a long weekend this weekend to mark Commemoration Day and National Day, it’s important to know the significance behind these poignant days.
Below, Emirates Woman takes you through the history of Commemoration Day, previously known as Martyrs’ Day, and National Day, marking when the seven emirates unified 51 years ago.
What is Commemoration Day?
Martyrs’ Day was initially declared by the late President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in 2015, in memory of the nation’s martyrs and in recognition of their sacrifices.
Now more commonly known as Commemoration Day, this year the day will fall on December 1, 2022. It will be followed by UAE National Day celebrations on December 2, 2022. However, it should be noted that Commemoration Day is a day of reflection to remember and honour those who have sacrificed their lives for the UAE.
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What is UAE National Day?
UAE National Day falls on December 2 and marks the country’s formal nationalisation and the start of the federal unification of the emirates in 1971. This year will mark the 51st annual UAE National Day.
It marks 51 years since the seven emirates joined to form the United Arab Emirates on December 2, 1971, under the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
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