Al Ain will be the venue for the UAE’s National Day celebrations this year, as announced by its organising committee on Thursday. According to Khaleej Times, the 53rd National Day festivities are being dubbed ‘Eid Al Etihad’. The official ceremony will unfold “against the stunning natural backdrops of Al Ain, a city that holds a special place in the hearts of the UAE’s people”, the committee stated. The event will be broadcast live on December 2 across local TV channels, cinemas, and designated public areas. Details of viewing locations throughout the Emirates will be disclosed soon.
Every December 2, the UAE stages a grand celebration typically attended by the Rulers of the Emirates. Previous editions have taken place at venues such as Expo City, Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, Hatta Dam, Al Jubail Mangrove Park, and Zayed Sports City Stadium. Aysha Al Nuaimi, head of Communications for the organising committee, remarked: “Al Ain is steeped in historical significance, dating back thousands of years. It is a city where nature and heritage coexist harmoniously, reflecting the UAE’s dedication to sustainability. With roots in centuries-old traditions, its natural surroundings and historical sites are invaluable aspects of Emirati heritage. Paired with contemporary sustainability efforts, it has evolved into a model of environmental stewardship, safeguarding its natural beauty while advancing progress to inspire future generations.”
Al Ain was the birthplace of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s early leadership journey. Recognised as an agricultural hub due to its verdant oases and ancient Aflaj irrigation systems, the garden city holds the distinction of being a Unesco World Heritage site. This accolade underscores its ecological and historical importance—“a legacy that spans over 4,000 years and continues to enhance the UAE’s cultural identity”. The committee revealed that the event will incorporate “cutting-edge storytelling techniques” to honour “the UAE’s journey and the enduring legacy of its founding fathers”.
Source link: https://www.khaleejtimes.com
