Dubai Airports celebrated the UAE’s 54th Union Day with a distinctive heritage experience inspired by the ancient Emirati Freij, the neighbourhood that was the heart of social life in the early days of the country.
The ceremony, which was held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chief Executive Officer of Emirates Airline Group, Chairman of Dubai Airports and Chairman of Dubai Duty Free, took place at the terminal 3 from Dubai International Airport, coinciding with the ‘Year of Society’, and embodying the values of unity, belonging and cohesion that characterize Emirati culture and the spirit of the airport community at oneDXB.
Celebrating the legacy of the founding fathers, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the event was a deep appreciation of the values of unity, compassion, and looking to the future, values that continue to shape the character of the UAE and the spirit of the airport community.
During the event, the employees participated in authentic cultural experiences that included heritage displays and features of Emirati life through food, photos, and collectibles that tell the history of the region, and express the warmth of relations, generosity, and the spirit of community cohesion from the winding railways of Al Freij to its lively corners.
Guests arriving through Terminal 3 were greeted by guests at Dubai International Airport, where they enjoyed live heritage art performances, including performances such as Al Yula, Al Liwa, and Al Haban, as well as interactive events that gave them opportunities to win commemorative prizes.
His Excellency Jamal Al Hai, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Airports, said, “During Union Day, we celebrate unity and shared pride, which are deeply rooted values in the heart of the UAE society. By reviving the atmosphere of Al Freij, Dubai Airports pays tribute to the legacy of the Founding Fathers and reflects the spirit of community that continues to lead the UAE’s journey of progress and unity .”
The event included interactive cultural zones, where the heritage market showcased Emirati products and handicrafts, while Dubai Duty Free returned, reviving the atmosphere of its early beginnings at Dubai International Airport, through a display of a range of vintage products.
The Police Station area highlighted the historical role of national authorities in maintaining security and serving the community, while the Dubai Customs Pavilion and the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs showcased their vital roles at the airport during that era.
The “Bride’s Room” inside the Emirati House witnessed a special show in collaboration with Dubai Culture, which embodied the traditional Emirati wedding experience. In collaboration with Dubai Ambulance, Heritage Hospital provided a glimpse of the country’s premier healthcare practices, while the Henna Corner celebrated the beauty arts and heritage passed down through generations.
