We have some days off school soon – do you know why? There are 2 reasons!

UAE NATIONAL DAY & UAE MARTYRS DAY 2015

MARTYR’S DAY Martyr’s Day recognises the sacrifices and dedication of Emirati martyrs, who have given their lives in the UAE and abroad in the field of civil, military and humanitarian service.

It is not a celebration in the same way as National Day, as flags will be lowered and a minute of silence will be held at 11.00am.

UAE NATIONAL DAY Shaikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan became ruler of Abu Dhabi in 1966, and in the same year Britain concluded that it could no longer afford to stay in the Middle East. Shaikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid from Dubai, knew then that the best and safest way forward was to form a union with neighbouring states.

Originally, the UAE was to be made up of nine emirates, which included Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain, Ajman, Bahrain, and Qatar. However, due to complications, Bahrain and Qatar decided not to join and one other declined to join then. How many emirates were planning to join together in 1971?

Which emirate only joined in 1972? Ras Al Khaimah

Celebrations Today There are many activities around the city taking place to celebrate National Day – try and get out and celebrate this unique culture in which we live. Traditional Dancing

Parades There is a huge parade and celebrations taking place in and around Dubai Mall and Downtown Dubai.

Leaders celebrating with the population of the UAE – you might be lucky enough to spot some important people and sheikhs who all attend these celebrations.

Lots of fireworks! The evening will be full of firework displays across the city.

Celebrate UAE National Day together with a very proud and patriotic population.