UAE 38th National Day 1

United Arab Emirates celebrates its foundation day every 2nd of December. The celebrations were held concurrently in its seven emirates: Abu Dhabi (capital city), Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain, Sharjah, Fujairah and Ajman. I went out to observe the celebration in Corniche (sort of like our Baywalk in Manila) this afternoon till almost midnight. The place and the people were very lively. Personally, I felt like I was in the Philippines during a New Year’s Eve. A lot of noise making, fireworks, etc. In the afternoon, while a dragonboat race was ongoing, a helicopter went on and paraded the UAE flag.

UAE 38th National Day 2

While I was prepping to take sunset photos (will share snaps in a separate post), the parade started. The vehicles were decorated with UAE colors and images of sheiks and of the late president. I noticed that most of the Filipinos were not that ecstatic to watch the parade compared with other expats. They were regaled enough by the picnicking.

UAE 38th National Day 3

At first, I was hesistant to take photos of the Emiratis (locals) as they are sensitive to being photographed by expats and non-members of the family in general. But I observed that most of those in the parade loosen for the celebrations. They didn’t mind being videocorded, too.

UAE 38th National Day 4
(Left to right: Palm trees on the streets were all lit up, photos of the sheiks can be seen, on the biggest portrait is the late president, residents picnicking near the beach, on the background is Emirates Palace)

In each corner or park, a family camping out was a common sight. At the heart of Corniche, the huge portrait of the late president beams as if he’s watching over all the Emiratis and UAE’s evergrowing population of expats.

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