The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai recently celebrated the 54th Eid Al Etihad, marking the occasion with a display of Emirati culture and national pride. Held at the RTA headquarters, the event featured performances and activities honoring the UAE’s formation and subsequent development. The celebration underscores the importance of national identity within Dubai’s rapidly evolving urban landscape.
The commemoration included a gathering of RTA employees, led by Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors, Mattar Al Tayer. Events unfolded throughout the morning and extended into community outreach initiatives, emphasizing the holiday’s significance to a broader audience. The approach to celebrating Eid Al Etihad reflects a growing trend in UAE public sector engagement.
Understanding the Significance of Eid Al Etihad Celebrations
Eid Al Etihad, also known as the Day of the Union, commemorates December 2nd, 1971, the date on which the six Trucial States – Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, and Fujairah – united to form the United Arab Emirates. Ras Al Khaimah joined the federation in 1972. The holiday is a cornerstone of national identity and a time for citizens to reflect on the country’s history and achievements.
The RTA’s event aimed to specifically showcase the heritage that underpins modern Dubai. Interactive displays allowed employees to experience traditional arts like henna and explore historical crafts. The inclusion of Areesh house models and exhibits of old maritime fishing tools provided tangible links to the UAE’s pre-oil era.
A Focus on Emirati Culture
National songs and poetry were central to the program, according to the RTA, serving as a narrative of the UAE’s journey. These artistic expressions highlight the values of unity, resilience, and progress that are considered foundational to the nation. Such cultural displays are increasingly common during national holidays across the Emirates.
Fatma Al Khumiri, Director of Marketing and Corporate Communication, stated the event was intended as a tribute to the UAE’s leadership and the legacy of the Founding Fathers. She emphasized the RTA’s commitment to fostering a sense of national belonging amongst its employees and extending that sentiment to the broader Dubai community. This extends the holiday beyond a mere day off for many residents.
RTA’s Expanding Community Role
The RTA’s involvement in Eid Al Etihad celebrations isn’t limited to internal events. The authority extended its activities publicly, signaling a growing role in community engagement beyond its traditional transportation remit. This aligns with wider government initiatives promoting national cohesion and cultural preservation.
Dubai has undergone substantial infrastructural development in recent decades, driven in part by the RTA’s projects. However, officials acknowledge the importance of balancing this progress with the preservation of Emirati traditions. Events like this Eid Al Etihad celebration represent a deliberate strategy to maintain that balance.
The UAE’s approach to national days differs from many countries as it seeks to build collective identity within a relatively young nation, formed through the union of diverse emirates. The emphasis on heritage and leadership aims to solidify a common cultural and historical understanding. Transportation improvements, like those implemented by the RTA, contribute towards enabling a unified experience for residents.
Looking ahead, the RTA is expected to continue its public celebrations of national occasions and integrate Emirati cultural elements into its ongoing projects and initiatives. Future events may include digital displays and interactive experiences, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to innovation while honoring its past. The lasting impact of these celebrations on national unity remains to be seen and will be closely monitored by social commentators and governmental bodies.
Balaram Menon is a veteran journalist with Gulf News, specializing in current affairs, politics, and digital media.
