ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates — The UAE will mark Union Pledge Day on July 18, honoring the signing of the Declaration of the Union and the UAE Constitution in 1971 and reflecting on 55 years of national growth.
The observance, approved by President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, recognizes the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the Founding Rulers, whose decision to unite laid the foundation for the modern state.
Officials say the day is intended to renew the commitment to the Union’s path and reinforce the values of loyalty, belonging and national cohesion.
Over the decades, the UAE has grown from a young federation into a globally influential country. That progress began under Sheikh Zayed, continued under the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and remains central to the leadership of Sheikh Mohamed.
The country’s economic performance has remained strong. In the 2026 World Competitiveness Report, the UAE ranked fifth globally and first in economic performance, while also leading the region for a 10th straight year.
The UAE topped 21 global indicators and placed among the world’s top five in 67 measures, reflecting the strength of its business environment and government institutions.
Non-oil trade also set a new benchmark. The UAE’s non-oil foreign trade exceeded 3.8 trillion dirhams in 2025, up nearly 27% from 2024, while non-oil exports crossed 813 billion dirhams, a 45.5% increase.
Humanitarian work remains another pillar of national policy. UAE leaders say relief and development efforts are rooted in the legacy of the Founding Fathers and have shaped the country’s response to crises and support for vulnerable communities.
The UAE also continues to emphasize diplomacy, dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution on the world stage, along with respect for state sovereignty and support for stability in the region.
In science and technology, the country is pushing ahead with space programs, artificial intelligence, innovation and clean-energy projects as part of a broader transition toward a more sustainable, knowledge-based economy.
As the annual observance approaches, Union Pledge Day is expected to serve as both a reminder of the UAE’s founding vision and a marker of the priorities shaping its next phase of growth.
