“Miracle” of the UAE’s 42 years

The UAE has witnessed a 'miracle' in its 42 years, says the ruler of RAK.

RAS AL KHAIMAH // The UAE has seen a miracle in its 42 years, the Ruler of RAK said yesterday as he unveiled a flagpole symbolising the country’s unity.

“A miracle has been made – our commitment to getting a better future,” said Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi at the inauguration.

Sheikh Saud said the flagpole and its flag, which are visible from several kilometres away, were a constant reminder of the country’s strength and unity.

“It represents the birth of our nation and the hope of our people for a prosperous future, not just for us,” he said.

“We have become an oasis of peace, tolerance and our greatest treasure is the friendship our people have with so many people who have come to cherish living in the Emirates, sharing our hopes and dreams.”

Police bands played traditional music and the national anthem at the event, which was attended by hundreds of men, women and children.

The flagpole, at the tip of the Corniche, was funded by the Ministry of Public Works. A similar flagpole will be built in every emirate.

The RAK Ruler was joined by Dr Abdullah Al Nuaimi, Minister of Public Works, for the ceremony. Citizens crowded around to speak to their leader after the flag-raising in a majlis-style setting.

The flagpole will be a permanent fixture in the emirate but National Day was an appropriate time for it to be unveiled, Sheikh Saud said.

“It’s something that symbolises peace across the Emirates and the Emirates as a place where people from all walks of life come to live in peace,” he said.

“It’s a moment of celebrating the making of this federal Union and turning it into a united family to become an example of how we believe Arab countries can work together and represent a better way of exhibiting our strength through working together.”

He spoke of a nation as being like a home.

“We need to look to the future and preserve it,” Sheikh Saud said. “It’s very important.”