Eid Al Etihad: UAE leaders pay tribute to National cadre at the ‘Stand of Loyalty Parade’

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, attended a ceremony organised by the Ministry of Defence on Monday in the Al Sameeh area in Abu Dhabi to mark the 10th anniversary of the National and Reserve Service Law.

The event, held in the presence of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, and Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence of the UAE.

The ceremony was attended by Sheikh Ammar bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman; Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah; Sheikh Rashid bin Saud bin Rashid Al Mu’alla, Crown Prince of Umm Al Quwain; and Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Crown Prince of Ras Al Khaimah.

The event highlighted the enduring values of loyalty, patriotism, and sacrifice that continue to inspire Emirati citizens to contribute to the nation’s progress. These values play a vital role in preserving the achievements of the Union and strengthening the nation’s development, security, and stability.

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan stressed that the UAE’s ongoing journey of progress was made possible by the unwavering loyalty and courage of the UAE’s sons and daughters.

“As we celebrate 10 years since the launch of the National and Reserve Service Programme, our ongoing journey of progress is made possible by the unwavering loyalty and courage of the UAE’s sons and daughters, and their determination to safeguard the stability of our nation,” the UAE President tweeted on X.

“May God protect the UAE, bless it with enduring glory, and safeguard itAs part of the National and Reserve Service Law’s 10th anniversary and 53rd Eid Al Etihad celebrations, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid witnessed ‘Waqfat Walaa’ (A Stand of Loyalty), the largest military parade of the UAE Armed Forces in the nation’s history. Thousands of National Service and Reserve Force members participated in this historic parade, reflecting a deep sense of pride and national belonging.

On this occasion, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid expressed his deep appreciation to the nation’s citizens who have upheld their responsibilities through national service. He emphasised that national service extends beyond mere military duty, describing it as a genuine expression of loyalty, patriotism, and the values of sacrifice and dedication. These values, he noted, are a legacy of the Founding Fathers, who established the UAE on strong foundations of unity, solidarity, and a commitment to protecting the nation.

Sheikh Mohammed hailed the UAE’s youth as a responsible generation, upholding the legacy of the nation’s founders through loyalty, national values, and readiness to serve. He highlighted their role in driving growth, innovation, and enhancing defensive capabilities. His Highness called the occasion a moment to reaffirm commitment to the Founding Fathers’ vision and work towards a brighter future. s people, land, and legacy,” the Vice President concluded.

Additionally, Sheikh Hamdan said: “Today, I had the privilege of attending the largest Military Parade called the ‘Stand of Loyalty’, the largest event of Eid Al Etihad celebrations this year. This year’s celebrations coincided with the 10th anniversary of the UAE’s National Service.

Thousands of National Service graduates came together, embodying the spirit of loyalty, pride, and unity.

Military service is an unmatched honor. It showcases the highest values of loyalty. The UAE stands united and strong, fortified by the dedication of its people and the sacrifices of its heroes.

With deep gratitude, I salute the graduates of National Service and heroes of our Armed Forces — the impenetrable shield of our beloved country.”

Handover ceremony

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum also witnessed the handover ceremony of the flag of the Khalifa bin Zayed Airborne Brigade, presented by Brigadier General Ahmed Ali Al Shehhi, Commander of the Brigade. The establishment of the airborne forces marks a significant advancement in defence and strategic capabilities. This initiative aligns with the leadership’s vision to strengthen the UAE Armed Forces’ readiness, equipping them to address the dynamic challenges of an ever-evolving landscape in defence technologies and strategies.

Military awards

Under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, and on the occasion of the UAE’s 53rd National Day, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum awarded a group of officers and non-commissioned officers from the UAE Armed Forces with the UAE Military Medal to recognise their significant efforts during the foundational phase of implementing the National and Reserve Service Law.

He conferred the First-Class UAE Military Medal to Major General Pilot Sheikh Ahmed bin Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces. He also awarded the Second-Class UAE Military Medal to Brigadier Rashid Abdullah Al Habsi and Colonel Humaid Rashid Al Khatri, and the Fifth-Class UAE Military Medal to Senior Warrant Officer Mohammed Khalifa Al Jabri and Warrant Officer Ismail Abbas Al Balushi.