President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, alongside several other esteemed officials, attended the official celebration for the 53rd Eid al-Etihad at Jebel Hafeet Park in Al Ain on Monday evening.
The 40-minute ceremony celebrated the UAE’s deep connection to nature and its journey from ancient traditions to modern innovation.
The show included seven chapters: Thuraya Star, Guided Through History, Simple Gestures, Under the Palms, A Flourishing Union, Shared Gestures, and Celebration.
One of the highlights was a tribute to the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who grew up in Al Ain and was mentored by his mother, Sheikha Salama bint Butti Al Qubaisi. The performance documented Sheikh Zayed’s journey from a young leader who restored and renovated Al Ain’s water resources, including the aflaj system, to becoming the Founding Father of the UAE.
The celebration also highlighted the journey of the Union, from signing the Union Pledge and unifying the emirates in 1971, followed by the unification of the UAE Armed Forces in 1976, to the transformation of the UAE today into a thriving hub for innovation and artificial intelligence.
The ceremony showcased innovative storytelling techniques and cutting-edge stage technologies – including drones, and light and shadow play – which worked in harmony with the natural beauty of the Jebel Hafeet backdrop.
The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra joined forces with 33 UAE-based musicians to present a musical experience that seamlessly blended Emirati heritage with a profound sense of national pride.
The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra also played musical pieces that expressed the national spirit and Emirati character.
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