The parade brought citizens and residents alike to express their mutual connection to the UAE Dubai: More than 500 cars transformed Jumeirah Road into a gigantic, touching tribute to the UAE’s 54th Eid Al Etihad on Tuesday, as the Al Etihad Parade, organised by Brand Dubai, celebrated a colorful display of national unity and community pride. As part of the month-long National Month celebrations, the parade, which was organized in partnership with the Dubai Events Security Committee, brought locals and citizens together to show their common link to the country’s history and advancement.
A journey from founding to future
The procession, which forms part of the campaign launched last year by Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, commenced at Union House, the historic location where the Founding Fathers signed the declaration of the Union in 1971. Its course finished at the Burj Al Arab, symbolically tracing the UAE’s history from its foundation to its contemporary modern achievements. Director of Brand Dubai Shaima Al Suwaidi thanked the Community Development Authority (CDA) and the Dubai Events Security Committee, among other supporting partners.
“We sincerely thank our partners whose collaboration ensured the success of the Al Etihad Parade,” said Ms. Al Suwaidi. “This event enabled the people of Dubai, both citizens and residents, to come together and express their pride in the UAE’s 54-year journey. The inspiration for the parade draws from the UAE’s story itself: from its founding in 1971 by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum and their fellow Founding Fathers, to the remarkable progress the nation has achieved today.” Commitment to safety and community The procession saw approximately 1,000 UAE flags presented to participants by volunteers, working in coordination with the CDA.
The comprehensive approach used by city departments was emphasized by Major General Saif Muhair Al Mazroui, Assistant Commandant for Operations Affairs and Chairperson of the Dubai Events Security Committee (ESC). “The strong cooperation between the Committee and Brand Dubai reflects the integrated way Dubai works to organise major events,” he said. He added thanked participants for their cooperation, noting their “commitment to the guidelines ensured a smooth, safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.” Meanwhile, Reem Obaid Al Awabed, Director of Social Programmes at the CDA, stressed the essential role of volunteers in the parade’s success. “Their dedication and genuine sense of loyalty and belonging added great value to this national event,” she stated. “Engaging volunteers in such occasions deepens community awareness and strengthens social cohesion.”
The #ZayedAndRashid campaign, which honors the two main Founding Fathers who spearheaded the country’s change, is part of the National Month campaign, which got underway on Flag Day (November 3).
