Sheikh Hamdan invites UAE residents to mark ‘Day of Solidarity’, this Saturday

This Saturday, the UAE will celebrate the Day of Solidarity, highlighting the courage, unity, and determination of its people. Residents are invited to join a nationwide moment of remembrance and pride. His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai’s Crown Prince, Deputy Prime Minister, and Defence Minister, has called on residents to join the national observance. In a X post, he urged the community to tune in to national media channels at 11:00 am to listen to the national anthem. Sheikh Hamdan emphasized that this is a moment for citizens to "renew their pledge and determination to continue advancing and elevating our beloved country.

"The annual occasion highlights the unity and steadfastness of the UAE people. Each year, January 17 serves as a reminder of the collective resolve to uphold the nation’s achievements and safeguard its standing on the global stage.

The Day of Solidarity marks the anniversary of the Houthi attacks in 2022, when civilian facilities in Abu Dhabi were targeted. On January 17, 2022, the Houthis struck the Musaffah ICAD 3 area and a construction site at Abu Dhabi International Airport.

These attacks resulted in the explosion of three petroleum tankers, claiming the lives of three civilians and injuring six others. Responsibility for the strikes was later claimed by the Houthis.Sheikh Hamdan highlighted that the day is a moment to reflect on the "resolve, unity, and solidarity of the people of the UAE, who stand proudly behind their national flag to protect the country’s achievements and uphold its global standing."

President Sheikh Mohamed has similarly described January 17 as a day to remember the strength, resilience, and solidarity of the nation.

Air display across emirates

To honour the occasion, the UAE will host a series of air displays starting at 3:00 pm across various locations. These include the Abu Dhabi Flagpole, Burj Al Arab, Umm Al Quwain Flagpole, Al Qawasim Corniche, and Umbrella Beach. Sharjah and Ajman will lead displays along the coasts of the two emirates.These visual tributes aim to engage the public while celebrating national unity and remembering the sacrifices made to safeguard the country.