The UAE today celebrates Union Pledge Day, a national occasion dedicated to reaffirming loyalty to the homeland and honouring the legacy of the country’s founding fathers.
Union Pledge Day, observed on 18 July, commemorates the pivotal events of 1971, when the rulers of the emirates, led by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, signed the declaration of the Union and the UAE Constitution, announced the nation’s name, and laid the foundation of the Arab world’s first federal state. These historic decisions paved the way for the UAE’s transformation into a modern, prosperous, and globally respected country.
Officially established in 2024 following a declaration by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, the day is a moment of national reflection, unity, and pride.
His Highness Sheikh Mohamed highlighted the enduring influence of the founding fathers on a social media post that stated, "On Union Pledge Day, we celebrate the blessed history of our Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and his brothers the Rulers in working together towards establishing the Union. As we renew our shared commitment to sustaining the progress and prosperity of the UAE, we affirm that unity remains the strength of our nation and its continued advancement".
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, also commemorated the occasion by pledging to continue the legacy of the founding fathers with the same spirit and determination in nation-building.