As the UAE marks the first anniversary of Union Pledge Day, the nation reflects on the historic milestones that led to its unification and pays tribute to the vision of its founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and the UAE Rulers.
Their declaration in 1971 laid the groundwork for the federation, marking one of the most defining moments in the UAE’s modern history.
Observed on 18th July, Union Pledge Day commemorates the signing of the UAE Constitution, the formal declaration of the Union, and the announcement of the UAE’s name. These foundational events paved the way for the nation’s official formation on 2nd December 1971.
Union Pledge Day was officially established as a national occasion by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to reaffirm loyalty to the homeland and to honor the UAE’s path of continuous development.
The day also serves to deepen national identity and increase awareness of the foundational steps that have propelled the UAE to its status as a regional and global leader.
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Honoring the Founding Fathers
The occasion highlights the visionary leadership and sacrifices of the founding fathers, whose legacy remains central to the UAE’s trajectory.
In his first address to the nation as President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed said: “Today, we see our nation ranked among the most advanced nations globally, as well as being one of the best places to live and work. This was the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed and our founding fathers, and we thank God for this blessing. We will continue to follow their wise approach, drawing inspiration from their unfaltering leadership. Our history, identity, and cultural heritage will form an essential part of our plans for the future.”
From federation to global leadership
Union Pledge Day also commemorates the UAE’s remarkable journey of unity and state-building, forged during complex regional circumstances.
The late Sheikh Zayed led the formation of the Arab world’s first federal state and launched one of the region’s most ambitious development programmes.
His successor, the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, guided the UAE through its Empowerment Phase (2004–2022), enhancing institutional strength, education, and citizen engagement.
Under his leadership, the UAE made record progress across sectors including economy, infrastructure, healthcare, renewable energy, and space exploration, becoming the first Arab and Muslim nation to reach Mars.
Major national strategies introduced during this period included the Principles of the 50, UAE Vision 2021, the UAE Strategy for Government Services (2021–2025), the National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence, the National Space Strategy 2030, and the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 Strategy.
Ongoing progress under HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed
Since assuming the presidency in 2022, HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed has continued to drive national development across economic, social, political, and environmental fronts. The UAE remains among the top-ranked countries in global competitiveness indices.
Economic diversification has accelerated, with significant growth in tourism, trade, industry, real estate, telecoms, and financial services. The Central Bank of the UAE projects a 4.4 percent GDP growth in 2025, driven by strong non-oil sectors and rising foreign investment.
In Q1 2025, non-oil foreign trade reached AED835 billion, including a record AED177.3 billion in exports. Over five decades, the UAE’s GDP has grown from AED58.3 billion in 1975 to AED17 trillion in 2024, while foreign trade has surged from AED11.5 billion to AED5.23 trillion.
In January, HH Sheikh Mohamed designated 2025 as the “Year of Community”, focusing on strengthening social cohesion and intergenerational ties.
AED27.9 billion, or 39 percent of the 2025 federal budget, has been allocated to social development, reflecting the government’s commitment to citizen welfare and cultural continuity.
UAE: A global partner in peace and aid
Beyond its borders, the UAE continues to play a leading role in global peacebuilding and humanitarian assistance. Guided by the values of tolerance, coexistence, and justice, the UAE has provided AED368 billion in foreign aid since its founding, benefitting over 1 billion people worldwide.
As the nation observes Union Pledge Day, it not only honors its historic past but also reaffirms its commitment to shaping a future built on unity, progress, and shared prosperity, guided by the enduring legacy of its founding leaders.
