July 18 marks a significant day in the history of the UAE, as a pivotal meeting on this date in 1971 set the stage for the formation of the UAE federation on December 2, 1971. During this meeting, the Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed, along with the Rulers of other emirates, signed the declaration of the Union and the UAE Constitution, officially naming the country the United Arab Emirates.
In honor of this historic event, President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed has declared July 18 as Union Pledge Day. He announced the new national occasion via social media, emphasizing its importance in commemorating the country’s journey and drawing lessons for the present and future.
“On this day in 1971, the Founding Father and his brothers the Rulers signed the declaration of the Union and the UAE Constitution while announcing the name of our country: the United Arab Emirates. In preparation for the nation’s establishment on 2 December, it was a historic day on which they laid the foundations of the Union. Today, we declare 18 July as Union Pledge Day, a national occasion to celebrate the history of our country and the blessed journey towards establishing the Union,” said Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed.
Union Pledge Day joins Union Day, Flag Day, and Commemoration Day as the fourth national occasion in the UAE. The day aims to promote the national values and principles established by the late Sheikh Zayed and the other Rulers, which continue to guide the nation’s progress. It also seeks to raise awareness among the youth about the country’s history and the sacrifices made to achieve this historic union.