Why Dubai roads are decked with Saudi flags

Dubai: Major roads here next to some of most iconic buildings are decked in Saudi and UAE flags.

The flags adorn a long stretch of the King Salman bin Abdulaziz Street, named after the Saudi monarch.

The gesture from the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai signifies the close ties between the UAE and Saudi Arabia, which marks its National Day on Saturday, September 23.

The road, formerly Al Sufouh Road, leads to the landmark Burj Al Arab and Jumeirah Beach hotels, as well the high-rises of the Marina district. where some of Dubai's most remarkable buildings dot the emirate's skyline.

The national colours of the two Gulf neighbours are also displayed on billboards and bridges, according to the RTA.

The 87th Saudi National Day will be commemorated with two-day celebrations across the UAE, with fireworks displays in several Dubai spots, including Riverland in Dubai Parks and Resorts, Dubai Creek, and Dubai Festival City.

Arab pop stars, too, are sharing in the celebration, with concerts by Balqees, Dalia Mubarak, Waed, and Rakan Khaled taking place in Dubai on Friday and Saturday.

Meanwhile, users of UAE-based telecommunications providers, Etisalat and du, were treated to a hint of the festive spirit ahead of time, as the message UAE KSA TOGETHER appeared atop their mobile phone screens.

Dubai malls had been decorated to celebrate Saudi National Day, while phone call rates from the UAE to Saudi Arabia had been cut by half until Saturday.

In a series of tweets, His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, commemorated the Saudi National Day with a photo of the leaders together.

Shaikh Mohammad also posted photos of His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman Al Saud.

A new logo was also launched to mark Saudi Arabia's 87th National Day that was accompanied with the Arabic hashtag Always_Together, which was retweeted by Dubai Media Office.