Ras Al Khaimah/Fujairah/Ajman: Numerous cultural and entertainment activities marked the 40th National Day celebrations in Ras Al Khaimah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah.

In Ras Al Khaimah, colourfully decorated streets, national flags and illuminations decked up most public spaces, adding to the fervour.

In parts of Al Jazeera Al Hamra, Ras Al Khaimah and Dhaid and Al Ma'murah, Al Jolan, Julfar, Al Rams, Al Sha'am and a number of other areas, residents proudly displayed pictures of President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan as well as Shaikh Zayed and other leaders who founded the union.

Mubarak Al Shamisi, director general of RAK Municipality, said: "As we celebrate the 40th UAE National Day, we reflect on the spirit that ties us together, the ‘Spirit of the Union' that enables millions of people to coexist and build lives together.

"The Spirit of the Union is derived from the vision and leadership of the late Shaikh Zayed, and now lives on through His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and his fellow leaders of the nation's emirates who are shaping the UAE's future."

Family participation

Parades and activities portraying Arab culture were the order of the day. Competitions also helped highlight the spirit of unity.

Majid Rashid Hamdon Al Naqabi, a resident, who was celebrating the occasion with his family and neighbours along the corniche in Ras Al Khaimah, said, "We feel so happy on this occasion. The celebrations are massive and vibrant."

Residents participated in the activities that comprised the celebrations.

Cosmopolitan nature

"It is the spirit that binds the cosmopolitan community of the UAE, connecting us under one banner, one flag, but with many voices. It is the Spirit of the Union that celebrates our culture and heritage, and shapes our future. This spirit needs to be celebrated and shared by all citizens and residents of the United Arab Emirates," Al Naqabi said.

Mohammad Al Khatiri, another resident, busy decorating the area around his house in Al Rams area, said: "It is our way to express loyalty and love toward our leadership." He said an announcement of a Dh5,000 prize for the largest flag in the area had been an added incentive for celebrations.

The Ajman Municipality held celebrations to mark the occasion. Several competitions and sporting events were held across the emirate.

15-metre sword goes on public display

The largest sword in the world was unveiled at a roundabout in Fujairah to mark the occasion.

The sword was displayed as a mark of tribute from Fujairah Crown Prince Shaikh Mohammad Bin Hamad Al Sharqi to the UAE's leadership and the people of the country on the occasion of the 40th National Day.

The 15-metre-long sword was displayed at a new roundabout which is to be known as Al Saif roundabout.