Dubai: A series of events are being held across the country to mark Commemoration Day and the 44th National Day and highlight UAE’s rich cultural past.

One of the main events in Sharjah will be an operetta called Nation of Hope on Flag Island in Sharjah.

The show, to be held on December 2 at 8pm, will feature six musical performances revolving around the theme of Spirit of the Union.

The operetta is written by Emirati poet Mosbeh Ali Al Kaabi with music by composer Khalid Al Nasser, and performed by artists Hussain Al Jasmi, Jasem Mohammad, Arwa, and Esmail Mubarak. It tells the story of the establishment of the UAE and its development over the course of four decades. It also exemplifies the heroism and sacrifices of the founding fathers of the UAE, most notably the late Shaikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and depicts the sacrifices of the nation’s martyrs who gave their lives for their country.

Etihad Airways

Etihad Airways participated in 44th National Day celebrations by hosting cultural activities and family entertainment for more than 2,000 staff and their families.

The special marquee event was held at the airline’s headquarters in Abu Dhabi.

A number of staff competitions were also arranged as part of the celebration, including an Emirati-themed talent show, best decorated department, and best dressed Emirati.

Family entertainment included face painting and games, henna hand painting, a falconry show and a UAE-themed photographic exhibition. An Emirati food truck and live traditional Emirati cooking also featured at the event.

Khalid Al Muhairbi, Etihad Airways’ Senior Vice-President of Government and Aero Political Affairs, said: “Today, we remember the founders of the UAE, who came together on December 2, 1971 to witness the birth of our nation. I am delighted to see both Emiratis and expatriate colleagues and friends drawing inspiration from the Spirit of the Union.”

Awqaf and Minors Affairs Foundation (AMAF)

AMAF organised a special celebration at the newly launched orphanage, the Family Village, to commemorate the 44th UAE National Day.

Held for the first time at Family Village, the event was attended by Khalid Al Thani, deputy secretary-general of AMAF, the foundation’s employees and management team, as well as children from the Family Village, and the ‘mothers’ and caregivers at the Village.

A parade was held with the participation of Dubai Police and Dubai Customs as part of the celebration. The event also featured a lecture on the importance of national identity, and a play focusing on the country’s martyrs in cooperation with Al Ameen service, Dubai Police, and Dubai Customs.

Al Noor Training Centre for Persons with Disabilities

Al Noor Training Centre for Persons with Disabilities will mark the National Day celebrations by showcasing the creative abilities of their students, who designed greeting cards reflecting the occasion.

Al Noor is hosting a festival to present The Al Noor season greeting cards collection, which were designed by 12 talented Al Noor students. The new themes comprise Modern Dubai, Snowman, Reindeer, Gifts and Decor for the season.

This project is one of Al Noor’s longest-running fund-raising projects where the proceeds from sale of the cards support the centre’s running cost and helps young people with intellectual and physical challenges realise their creative abilities.