A 1.2km flag of determination: UAE marks Eid Al Etihad with 54 million steps in Al Ain

The Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination organized yesterday, Thursday, a major national event titled the 'March of the Nation' in Al Ain City, celebrating the 54th UAE National Day as part of the Year of Community initiatives. Held under the slogan “54 Million Steps for the Nation,” the event witnessed a remarkable turnout of more than 16,000 participants from across all segments of society, forming a patriotic tableau that embodied pride, loyalty, and a deep sense of belonging to the nation.

The event opened with a majestic national scene as a 1,200-meter UAE flag was raised meticulously woven by 27 People of Determination from the vocational rehabilitation workshops of the Organization in Al Ain. The gesture served as a symbolic tribute to strength, determination, and unwavering will.

Participants collectively recorded more than 54 million steps, averaging 3,375 steps per person over a distance of approximately 2.5 kilometers, delivering a unified message that the UAE is a homeland that embraces everyone.

The event featured the participation of mounted units, the Abu Dhabi Police Band, military national service recruits, senior citizens, students, and representatives from various government and private entities.

Abdulla Abdulal Al Humaidan, Director-General of the Organization, said:

“The ‘March of the Nation’ is not merely a celebratory event; it is a message of loyalty and belonging that reflects the UAE’s vision of placing the human being every human being at the center of development and empowerment. The scene of raising the flag woven by People of Determination is an honest expression of our leadership’s belief in their capabilities and their pivotal role in the nation’s journey.”

For her part, Mouza Al Salami, Director of the Abu Dhabi Autism Center, said:

“We are proud of the participation of People of Determination in this significant national event.”

The “March of the Nation” was organized with principal support from First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), alongside key partners of the Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination who contributed to the success of the event. Additional partners in the second tier also supported the initiative.