UAE President marks Eid al-Etihad with handwritten note

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan marked the 53rd Eid al-Etihad by thanking the UAE's citizens and residents for all "[they] do for this nation," in a handwritten note shown on social media platform X. 

"On the occasion of Eid Al Etihad, we take pride in the UAE and its people, both citizens and residents," the note by the President said.

"Thank you for your determination. Thank you for your efforts. Thank you all that you do for this nation," it said, with the President's name and signature closing the note.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, also delivered a celebratory message.

"On the occasion of our glorious Union Day... We thank God for the blessings of this dear country... We remember the founders... We celebrate the achievements of the march... We congratulate the people of the Union... We renew our loyalty to the President of the Union and the pledge to preserve the gains of the Union," H.H. Sheikh Mohammed said. 

Celebrations for Eid al-Etihad swept the nation over the long weekend, with government buildings, public squares, streets, and shopping centres adorned with the UAE flag and various decorations symbolising the national occasion.

Eid al-Etihad is celebrated annually on December 2 to commemorate the formation of the United Arab Emirates in 1971. 

To the people of the UAE,
 
On the occasion of Eid Al Etihad, we take pride in the UAE and its people, both citizens and residents.
Thank you for your determination.
Thank you for your efforts.
Thank you for all that you do for this nation. pic.twitter.com/6NXLWr1wkd

— محمد بن زايد (@MohamedBinZayed) December 2, 2024