Abu dhabi: As the UAE marks the first anniversary of 'Union Pledge Day' on 18th July, the nation reflects on the pivotal moments that led to its unification, recalling the enduring legacy of the founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and his brothers, the Rulers, whose historic declaration in 1971 laid the foundations for the federation.
According to Emirates News Agency, the day is one of the most important in the history of the UAE, as the declaration of the Union and the UAE Constitution were signed, and its name was announced, with the solid foundation for its establishment laid on 2nd December.
Union Pledge Day was designated as a national occasion by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to reaffirm loyalty to the homeland and celebrate the country's continued development. The day aims to strengthen national identity and raise public awareness of the foundational steps that propelled the UAE to its current status as a regional and global leader.
The occasion highlights the vision and sacrifices of the founding fathers, whose legacy continues to shape the UAE's trajectory. In his first address to the nation as President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed stated that the UAE is now ranked among the most advanced nations globally and is one of the best places to live and work, attributing these achievements to the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed and the founding fathers.
Union Pledge Day also serves to honor the UAE's achievements in state-building and unity, forged amid complex regional dynamics. The founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed, led the country through the formation of the Arab world's first federal state and launched one of the region's largest development drives.
Following Sheikh Zayed's leadership, the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan led the empowerment phase (2004-2022), strengthening institutions, promoting education, and advancing citizen participation in national development. Under his leadership, the UAE became the second-largest economy in the Arab world and the first Arab and Muslim nation to reach Mars.
Since 2022, under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE has continued to achieve major milestones across economic, social, political, and development domains. Economic diversification has gained momentum, with significant growth in tourism, trade, financial services, industry, real estate, telecoms, and technology.
In January, President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed declared 2025 the 'Year of Community,' aimed at strengthening intergenerational ties and social cohesion. The government allocated AED27.9 billion-39 percent of the 2025 federal budget-to social development, underscoring its commitment to citizen welfare and cultural preservation.
Internationally, the UAE remains a key partner in peacebuilding and humanitarian efforts. Guided by values of tolerance and coexistence, the country actively supports global stability and justice. Since its founding, the UAE has provided AED368 billion in foreign aid, benefiting more than one billion people worldwide across humanitarian and development sectors.
