H. E. Zaki Nusseibeh: the UAE National Day is not a normal day but rather it is a historical day made by the founding leaders

The United Arab Emirates University organized various activities and performances including art exhibitions, heritage events, musical performances, lectures, seminars, and poetry slams which took place during one week, in which UAEU students, professors, leadership, and staff participated and expressed their love and loyalty to the UAE.

H. E. Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh - Cultural Adviser to H. H. the President of the UAE and Chancellor of the United Arab Emirates University said: "We stand today with great pride as we celebrate the 51st UAE National Day, on the morning of the second of December of 1971, that glorious day in the history of our nation.

He added: "This day is not a normal day but rather a historical day made by the founding leaders, and an ambitious vision of the late founder of the United Arab Emirates, the founder of the UAE progress and civilization, immortal in our hearts, minds and consciences, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may God rest his soul in peace. The second of December was a dream that became a reality, when the seven leaders met for the best interest of their Emirates, issued their statements, and fulfilled the future aspirations of their people, to have one country, one flag, and one anthem, beside a leader who writes history in letters of light.

H. E. Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh explained: “The Union did not come out of nothing, but was a national will required by circumstances at a time when our region was surrounded by international and regional challenges and conflicts, which had to be confronted to preserve our existence, our national interests, and our human and civilized message.  Therefore,” Zayed" called for the union to face the challenges and keep pace with the progress of civilization. On the morning of the second of December, the birth of a new history, the emergence of an authentic Arab Union. We are here today, after 51 years have passed, we have entered a stage of development, growth and construction so that the journey of giving continues under the wise leadership. God prepared men who believed in God and the homeland to carry its message and its flag, they were the best successors to the best predecessors. The late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, may God have rest his soul, carried the flag - with all honesty, sincerity and competence - to preserve this national cultural heritage.

In his speech on this precious occasion, His Excellency stressed: "Today, with the help and grace of God, we are moving forward under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, may God protect him, with his brother, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister, and their brothers, the members of the Supreme Council, the rulers of the Emirates, so that our country continues its path, assumes positions of leadership, and races against time, to be at the forefront of the most developed countries. The UAE is the homeland of safety, security and peace.

The university's colleges, scientific centers, student activities, departments, and sections all participated in this occasion by conducting a number of activities, artistic and musical performances, and carnivals over a week. The university library organized a carnival that included the classic car show, the marine environment, the bride’s outfit, the old man herb shop, and others. The UAEU Cultural and Social Club also conducted " Yola" performances, art exhibitions, traditional food corner, and heritage tent, with the participation of various institutions in this celebration.

The university students and professors also participated in a festive event to express their happiness on this occasion, in addition to the military band, Yola band, and horse shows. It also included the activities of the Heritage Village in the female and male sides, and the activities of the Emirati Knowledge Village.