His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, has designated 18 July as Union Pledge Day. This commemorates the significant gathering on this date in 1971, when the country's Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, alongside the other founding fathers, signed the union declaration and the UAE constitution. It was during this historic event that the official name of the UAE was also announced.
This historic meeting marked a milestone in the journey towards establishing a federation of emirates on 2 December 1971. His Highness Sheikh Mohamed emphasised that 18 July 1971 holds profound significance in UAE history, as it witnessed the signing of the union declaration, UAE constitution, and the announcement of its official name, laying a solid foundation for its formation on 2 December.
His Highness Sheikh Mohamed further underscored that Union Pledge Day serves as a momentous occasion to honour the UAE’s remarkable journey and renew the nation's commitment to unity and progress, both to God Almighty and the people of the UAE.
Union Pledge Day now stands as the fourth national occasion in the UAE, following Flag Day on 3 November, Commemoration Day on 30 November and UAE National Day on 2 December.
What Is Union Pledge Day
Union Pledge Day will be celebrated every year on 18 July and it aims to uphold the national values and principles established by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, which continue to guide the nation's path forward. Additionally, it seeks to promote awareness among the youth about the country’s history, the sacrifices made, and the collective efforts that led to the realisation of this historic union.