Under the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council (DMC), Brand Dubai—the creative division of the Government of Dubai Media Office (GDMO)—has unveiled the #ZayedAndRashid campaign. This initiative aims to celebrate significant national events in the UAE. The campaign, launched in collaboration with 16 government, semi-government, and private organizations, was introduced at a press conference held on Wednesday at the GDMO.
This innovative project aligns with UAE Flag Day and the 53rd Eid Al Etihad celebrations, showcasing a vibrant array of festivities across the emirate from November 3 to December 2. Events organized under this campaign will provide memorable experiences for the community and highlight the city’s historical milestones and cultural diversity, while offering visitors an insight into the UAE’s rich heritage.
Honoring Founding Fathers
HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed conveyed his best wishes to the UAE leadership and the community during this significant period. The campaign honors the UAE’s founding fathers, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, recognizing their pivotal roles in establishing the Union and reinforcing national identity within UAE society. He emphasized that the initiative also serves as an opportunity to familiarize visitors with the visionary leaders who have profoundly influenced the UAE’s history and legacy.
He directed efforts to unify the various entities involved in the #ZayedAndRashid campaign, ensuring that the celebrations reflect the spirit of national unity and pride.
His Highness expressed appreciation for the contributions of all partners, noting that their events would enhance the spirit of national loyalty. He stated that the campaign would bolster Dubai’s position as a global destination, showcasing its unique cultural identity and international prominence.
At the press conference, Her Excellency Mona Al Marri, vice chairperson and managing director of the Dubai Media Council and Director General of GDMO, expressed her gratitude to all campaign partners for their efforts in creating unique events that enrich the national celebrations and exhibit Dubai’s vibrant character.
Her Excellency remarked that the festive celebrations across Dubai and the UAE reflect the commitment of various institutions and society to honor the nation’s history and achievements. She noted that this year, coinciding with key national occasions, HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum had envisioned a celebration that unites all stakeholders and the community. By consolidating festivities under one campaign, the aim is to transform these celebrations into a powerful expression of national pride that truly embodies the spirit of the Union.
Role of media
She emphasized the vital role of the media in highlighting the celebrations, which would take place throughout Dubai, in neighborhoods, residential areas, malls, and major landmarks. She reaffirmed GDMO’s commitment to fully support media outlets with essential information to ensure comprehensive coverage of the national festivities.
Through the #ZayedAndRashid campaign, the goal is to creatively showcase the unique and vibrant events organized by various institutions alongside the country’s national celebrations, she added.
Promoting collaboration
Shaima Al Suwaidi, director of Brand Dubai, expressed her gratitude for the exceptional cooperation among partners in the #ZayedAndRashid campaign. She noted that this year’s national celebrations in Dubai would be characterized by strong public-private collaboration.
Al Suwaidi highlighted Brand Dubai’s role in coordinating among partners. Brand Dubai will oversee the 11th edition of the #UAEFlagGarden, an annual event that honors the UAE flag and its significance as a symbol of national pride. This year’s #UAEFlagGarden will pay tribute to the two Founding Fathers, who hold a special place in the hearts of all Emiratis for their essential contributions to the UAE’s foundation.
Local business engagement
Additionally, Al Suwaidi mentioned that several local businesses from Brand Dubai’s ‘Proudly from Dubai’ network are actively engaging in the #ZayedAndRashid campaign. These businesses have creatively integrated the campaign’s logo into their products, showcasing their innovation and support during the celebration period, enhancing the festive atmosphere.
The #ZayedAndRashid campaign, Dubai Media Office reported, will feature a series of special events and activities throughout Dubai, providing residents and visitors with unique experiences during this period.
Dubai Culture and Arts Authority
Also, the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority will host special events at key cultural sites like Hatta Heritage Village, encouraging visitors to delve into the region’s rich history and culture. The Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood will offer various activities that reflect Dubai’s cultural heritage.
Additionally, at Al Shindagha Museum, the UAE’s largest open-air heritage museum, visitors will experience a comprehensive cultural journey connecting the past with the present. The museum will revive heritage houses through theatrical and interactive performances, showcasing aspects of life in historical Dubai. Celebrations will include both traditional and innovative events highlighting the UAE’s development journey.
Moreover, the Etihad Museum, a significant national landmark, will host special events focusing on the history of the UAE’s Union, including cultural exhibitions and interactive displays narrating the story of the UAE’s founding.
Expo City Dubai
Furthermore, Expo City Dubai will feature a musical concert titled ‘Union Symphony’, performed by the Firdaus Orchestra, as part of the 53rd Eid Al Etihad celebrations. The orchestra will also present a selection of Emirati national songs in two free public performances. The iconic Al Wasl Plaza will be adorned with UAE flags and traditional Emirati décor, complemented by cultural performances. Additionally, the Emirati Harvest Market will showcase locally grown agricultural and food products.
Dubai Frame and Parks
In addition, the Dubai Municipality will illuminate major parks, the Dubai Frame, Dubai Safari Park, and the Clock Tower roundabout with dazzling lights for Eid Al Etihad. These festive decorations reflect the city’s spirit and its engagement with the UAE’s national celebrations. The municipality will also organize various events as part of the #ZayedAndRashid campaign, including educational workshops and activities in areas like Children’s City.
GDFRA
The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai (GDRFA) will further celebrate national festivities with various events. A special area at Dubai Airports will be dedicated to official Eid Al Etihad celebrations, emphasizing maritime heritage as the theme. Visitors arriving at Dubai’s entry points will be welcomed with traditional national songs, highlighting the unique spirit of these celebrations.
Also, in Hatta, GDRFA, in collaboration with Dubai Culture, will organize a community event for Eid Al Etihad, featuring a film screening about the Founding Fathers and distributing gifts to tourists and residents.
Dubai Airports
Dubai Airports will further host a variety of Emirati cultural events and traditional performances, showcasing authentic Emirati customs, values, and identity. Additionally, Dubai Airports will honor the nation’s Founding Fathers, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, by highlighting their achievements on social media and traveler screens.
DET
The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) will participate in the #ZayedAndRashid campaign by hosting several events for Eid Al Etihad. The ‘Union Day Concert’ will feature renowned Arab artists and traditional performances at prestigious venues, attracting audiences from across the UAE and beyond.
Furthermore, the ‘Union Day Parade’, organized in collaboration with Watani Al Emarat, will take place at City Walk on December 2. This vibrant parade will celebrate Emirati culture through traditional dances and performances, creating a festive atmosphere for families and visitors.
On the evenings of December 2 and 3, spectacular fireworks displays will light up the skies at iconic locations like JBR Beach, Al Seef, Hatta, and Dubai Festival City Mall. These events will be enhanced by citywide activations, where malls, hotels, and attractions will feature special Eid Al Etihad branding, cultural performances, and traditional music, ensuring a lively and unified celebration across Dubai.
Seasonal markets like Beach Canteen, Ripe Market, and Winter Wonderland will also contribute to the festivities, offering Emirati-themed activities, local food, and retail experiences. Additionally, numerous restaurants and hotels throughout the city will provide special offers and promotions.
Celebrations in Hatta will be particularly vibrant, coinciding with the winter festivities. The town will be beautifully illuminated, creating a festive atmosphere in popular community areas. Fireworks, traditional folk dances, and music performances will showcase Hatta’s rich cultural heritage, providing visitors with a unique experience amid the stunning mountain backdrop and fostering a sense of national unity and pride.
KHDA
The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) will launch a community campaign to promote national identity and celebrate Emirati heritage. This initiative will feature four weekly themes: Emirati heritage, national identity, achievements in education, and visions for the future. Schools across Dubai will participate by showcasing activities, and there will be a student talent competition in arts, photography, poetry, and design, with contributions shared on social media.
Museum of the Future
The Museum of the Future will be further adorned with flags bearing the campaign’s logo. Visitors will receive specially issued tickets featuring the #ZayedAndRashid logo. In efforts to engage the public during the national celebrations, the museum will produce a video commemorating Eid Al Etihad, which will be shared on its social media platforms.
Majid Al Futtaim
Also, as part of its involvement in the #ZayedAndRashid campaign, City Centre Mirdif and Mall of the Emirates will be decorated to reflect the festive spirit of Eid Al Etihad from November 15 to December 7. The malls will host various entertainment and educational events, including interactive workshops celebrating Emirati culture, live music performances, and a special Emirati heritage exhibition at City Centre Mirdif.
RTA
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) will further decorate main streets and bridges in Dubai with the national flag and festive lights. Key locations, including the Infinity Bridge and Business Bay Crossing, will be illuminated, and electronic screens on the Dubai Metro and Tram will display the campaign logo and information about the founding leaders.
Dubai Holding
Global Village will celebrate #ZayedAndRashid through 30 pavilions and nightly fireworks, attracting thousands of visitors. Jumeirah Group hotels will be adorned with the campaign logo, the national flag, and festive lighting. Additionally, 10 shopping centers owned by Dubai Holding will host educational workshops about the achievements of the UAE’s founding leaders.
Read more: Dubai World Trade Centre gears up to host more than 100 flagship events by end of 2024
Wasl Group
Wasl Asset Management Group will illuminate several of its buildings in Dubai as part of the campaign. The stunning lighting displays will enhance key properties, including the Wasl Experience Centre, Dar Wasl, Wasl 51, and Wasl 1 residences. The Group will also host various workshops and events throughout the campaign.
Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department
Moreover, the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department will host seven main events as part of the #ZayedAndRashid campaign, including a women’s event at the Umm Al Sheif Centre. The Department’s buildings will be decorated with the national flag and lights, creating a festive atmosphere.
Dubai Media
As part of the campaign, Dubai Media will provide extensive coverage of the #ZayedAndRashid campaign across its platforms. A special program will air on the Sama Dubai channel, along with radio and TV segments in Arabic and English highlighting the achievements of the UAE’s Founding Fathers. Dubai Media will collaborate with other outlets to share archival content related to the campaign.
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