Today is the day that the UAE turns 50! Fifty years ago the world’s first Arab federation was formed, thanks to 6 leading Emiratis who came together. The birth of the United Arab Emirates as we know began with the unification of Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Umm Al Quwain, Dubai, Ajman, and 3 months after the formation, Ras Al Khaymah joined.
In the past 50 years, the modern UAE has grown into an empire, turning from a country reliant on agriculture and fishing, into one of the world’s leading business center. Every year, the United Arab Emirates observes its birthday on the 2nd of December, and today we share with you how the nation is celebrating this year.
Golden Jubilee celebrations
On a day filled with pride and joy, the Golden Jubilee celebrations were held; It was a huge show held at the Hatta dam, in the middle of Hajar mountains, valleys, and lakes. The event was organized by the Emirati Cultural Club, where attendees witnessed a set of performances of folklore dancing, poetry recitation, music performance by the AUS Choir, piano recital, and much more. There were even family competitions where kids participated and won some fun prizes!
Fireworks
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Firework festivities will be everywhere, from Abu Dhabi and Sharjah to Dubai. The skies will be lit up as a celebration of the 50th National UAE Day. People can check out the firework displays at The Pointe and Atlantis, The Palm on Palm Jumeirah, Etisalat Beach Canteen at Jumeirah Beach, Bluewaters Island, Al Maryah Island, and Abu Dhabi’s Corniche. Just as there are performances on the ground, there will be performances in the skies.
Free & faster internet
The telecom company du is celebrating UAE’s 50th birthday by increasing the speed for its home country. All du users will get an automatic upgrade to get a new and improved speed, and it’s completely free. The offer is up for 3 months from the 1st of December, and after that duration, the speed will go back to what it was. Also, postpaid and prepaid mobile customers will be offered a special package! So now Emiratis can be proud for being Emirati, and also get free internet speed.
Ras al Khaimah discount on traffic fines
As a celebration of the 50th National Day, the General Command of Ras Al Khaimah Police is giving a 50% discount on traffic fines. The discount is ongoing for around a month, from the 5th of Dec to the 3rd of Jan. This is a way to motivate all drivers who have unpaid fines to make the payments and use that discount.
Free entry to Expo 2020
In honor of modern UAE turning 50, the Dubai Council for Border Crossing Points Security and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs are offering inbound travelers of UAE free Expo 2020 tickets. It’s to promote events in Dubai and see the artistic creativity of the port city, through attending the shows and performances! The tickets are for free for 2 weeks starting the 1st of Dec.
UAE Flag under the sea
This year, the Coral Reef Regeneration Program was launched to spread awareness about the sustainable management of coral reefs. The program aims to preserve and regenerate marine life under the seas of the UAE. So Emirati Diver Saleh Mohammed Aldhuhoori led 24 other volunteers under the sea to raise the UAE flag by the coral polyps.
Free parking
During the National Day holidays, from the 1st of December to 7:59 am on the 4th of December, residents of the UAE’s capital will have free parking. This was announced by the Integrated Transport Center, as a way to encourage the public to park in their own space, instead of parking in the streets and blocking them, to ensure a smooth flow of traffic.
Floating stage
This project has been in the works for around 5 months, and it’s all planned for the celebration, which will be held from the 4th of Dec to the 12th. There will be a floating stage over the lake in the middle of Hatta Dam. The stage is going to have many performances on it, celebrating how Emirati people are connected to nature. It’s the first time in UAE that there is a floating stage, and floating audience!
Google gives UAE a picture
Google doodles are used to mark an event to celebrate, and this year they’re celebrating the 50th National UAE Day. The homepage of Google for UAE residents now has the flag of the country fluttering in an animated picture.
New theme song
A new song that highlights the achievements of the UAE within the past 50 years is out. It’s called Hathi Al Emarat, which translates to “This is the UAE.” The theme song is all about love and pride for the nation. It’s also going to be performed as well during a series of musical celebrations.