Thousands of residents across the UAE will be able to put their national pride on full display – thanks to a new plan to hand out 5,000 national flags in time for a landmark date.
The country will come together on November 1 to celebrate the sixth annual UAE Flag Day, and telecommunication giant du is already signalling its support for the event.
The telco is joining forces with Emirates Foundation, a body set up by the Abu Dhabi Government to support youth initiatives, for a 5,000 flag giveaway for the banner day.
The annual event marks Sheikh Khalifa being sworn in as President in 2004 following the death of his father, Sheikh Zayed.
Du will dish out 2,000 UAE flags to be flown with pride to new home service customers ahead of the day.
Emirates Foundation will distribute the remaining 3,000 to schools, homes and businesses – with a little help from the public.
Volunteers are being urged to help hand out the flags by signing up for the scheme on volunteers.ae, a nationwide volunteering programme.
Osman Sultan, chief executive at du, said the company is eager to support the initiative.
“This UAE Flag Day, du is empowering people across the country to raise new flags in honour of the past, present and the future,” he said.
Said Maytha Al Habsi, chief executive for the Emirates Foundation: “Volunteerism is the heart of a vibrant, thriving civil society and we are proud to be able to collaborate with du to help make this flag change initiative happen,”
“This innovative partnership with du is a great way to attract youth to volunteer, give back and help inspire UAE communities for this momentous national occasion.”
The move comes just a day after Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid called on residents to celebrate UAE Flag Day
The Vice President and Ruler of Dubai urged the public to fly the flag high from 11am on November 1.
In a post on his Twitter account, Sheikh Mohammed pointed out the flag is a symbol unity that will soon be raised in space.
“Brothers and sisters, our nation celebrates flag day soon. The symbol of our sovereignty and unity,” he said.
The country’s flag will be raised at government and private buildings across the seven emirates, from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah.