Abu Dhabi: H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence, attended a ceremony in the Abu Mureikha area to commemorate the 49th anniversary of the unification of the UAE Armed Forces.
According to Emirates News Agency, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan highlighted the significance of the unification as a national occasion for reflection on the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the Founding Fathers. He emphasized their role in establishing the foundations of unity and reinforcing the principles that guide the nation's progress.
The ceremony was attended by prominent figures including Mohamed bin Mubarak bin Fadhel Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Defence Affairs; Lieutenant General Issa Saif bin Ablan Al Mazrouei, Chief of Staff of the UAE Armed Forces; Lieutenant General Ibrahim Nasser Al Alawi, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Defence; and Lieutenant General Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri, Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police.
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan extended congratulations to President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and other leaders on the occasion. He noted that the unification decision had a profound impact on military excellence and the nation's security.
He further stated that under the UAE leadership, the Armed Forces have enhanced their operational readiness and capabilities, investing in advanced defence technologies and developing a skilled force to maintain high preparedness in a dynamic global environment.
The Ministry of Defence marked the 49th anniversary as a significant chapter in UAE history, highlighting the decision on 6th May 1976 to establish a unified military command. This provided a robust defence foundation and elevated the nation's regional and international standing.
Today, the UAE Armed Forces are recognized for excellence and professionalism, a testament to leadership support and personnel dedication to achieving high standards in military and technological fields. The Ministry also paid tribute to fallen heroes and appreciated those serving with honour both domestically and internationally.