UAE leaders congratulate Qatar on its National Day

Residents celebrate the country's unification on December 18 , also known as Founder’s Day

Qatar is commemorating the country’s unification in 1878. Getty

President Sheikh Khalifa sent a message of congratulations yesterday to Sheikh Tamim Al Thani, Emir of Qatar, on the occasion of the country’s National Day.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, also congratulated Sheikh Tamim, reported state news agency Wam.

Qatar celebrates its National Day on December 18 to commemorate the country’s unification in 1878.

It was declared an independent state in 1971.

Sheikh Mohamed wished Qatar a happy National Day online.

“Congratulations to our brothers and sisters in Qatar on the country’s National Day,” he said.

“We wish Qatar and its people continued prosperity and success under the leadership of Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.”

Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Finance and Deputy Ruler of Dubai, also wished Qatar a happy National Day.

“We are united with the sisterly state of Qatar by the bonds of history, brotherhood and destiny, and the pursuit of a bright future for our two countries, filled with co-operation and prosperity,” he said.

The country of more than 2.8 million people has a rich history and natural wonders.

Forts dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries, futuristic architecture, museums and natural attractions such as mangroves have put it on the tourist map.

The UAE celebrated Qatar’s National Day under the theme UAE-Qatar: Many Happy Returns.

Buildings in the Emirates were illuminated in the colours of the Qatari flag.

Qatari citizens who flew into the UAE yesterday received a commemorative stamp in their passports.

Celebrations were also held at Global Village and at Expo 2020 Dubai, where Qatar’s pavilion highlights the country’s contributions to the arts, medicine and tourism.

Previous Qatar National Day celebrations: in pictures