The UAE has reinforced its message of unity and strength, with Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum calling on residents across the country to raise the national flag as a symbol of collective pride — a direct response to a period of crisis that tested and ultimately strengthened the nation.
Sheikh Mohammed's Call to Raise the UAE Flag
On April 9, 2026 — one day after a Pakistani-mediated ceasefire paused months of Iranian missile and drone attacks that began on February 28 — Sheikh Mohammed posted a simple but powerful message on X (formerly Twitter):
"The UAE flag is a symbol of strength and pride. We call on the sons of the Emirates and its residents to fly it above their homes, centres and buildings."
He also urged people to "raise the flag high over every home and building, as a sign of our love and symbol of our loyalty to our President and our unity and solidarity."
A Nation That Stood Together
Sheikh Mohammed highlighted how the UAE entered the crisis united and emerged from it even more united, cohesive, and loyal. He pointed to the alignment between citizens, residents, and institutions — young and old, military and civilian, government and private sector — all standing together under one flag and one shared national vision.
"Proud of our country. Proud of our country's President. Proud of our armed forces. Proud of the strength of our economy. Proud of our teamwork. Proud of all our citizens and residents on our land. Proud of our flag," he wrote.
Economic Strength and Institutional Unity
The message also underscored the UAE's economic resilience during the period of regional conflict. From public sector teams to private businesses, Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the coordination and commitment across every industry that continues to support the country's stability and growth. That alignment has reinforced confidence in the UAE's ability to maintain its upward trajectory.
An Overwhelming National Response
The response to Sheikh Mohammed's flag-raising call was immediate and widespread. Within hours, the UAE transformed into a sea of red, white, black, and green. Government institutions raised flags outside buildings and offices, while residents displayed them from balconies and rooftops across their communities. Businesses joined in on social media using the hashtag #ProudOfUAE.
What the UAE Flag Represents
Sheikh Mohammed described the flag as a symbol of pride, strength, and shared identity — the spirit that connects every person living in the country. With a simple yet powerful call to display it, he reinforced what defines the UAE: unity, resilience, and shared purpose. Across homes and workplaces, the message is clear — the UAE moves forward together.
