‘Commemoration Day’ recognises the sacrifices and dedication of Emirati martyrs, who have given their lives in the UAE and abroad in the field of civil, military and humanitarian service. Earlier in 2015, His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, decreed that November 30 would become an annual public holiday to remember and honour the martyrs.
The decision to mark this day came in light of the UAE’s participation in the Saudi-led coalition’s operation restoring hope in Yemen. Seventy members of UAE forces lost their lives while fulfilling their duties as part of the operation.
Dignified commemorative events take place around the UAE, under the auspices of government institutions. At 8 a.m., the UAE flag was lowered across the country (at all government and government-subsidiary premises) and remained lowered until 11 a.m. It was followed by a one minute’s silence and supplication from 11.30 a.m. to 11.31 a.m. After the one minute’s silence, the UAE flag was raised again while the UAE national anthem was played.
Residents and citizens in the UAE are reminded to be respectful on this day. Celebrating ‘Commemoration Day’ is a reminder to us all about the patriotism and courage that our soldiers have, and the sacrifices they have made for this country.
As a mark of respect, the ‘one-minute silence’ was also observed by the Al Hathboor Group staff at 11.30 a.m. during the Commemoration day.
