SHARJAH - His Highness Dr Shaikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated the ‘Flag Island’ on Sunday.

Marking the UAE’s 41st National Day, Shaikh Sultan raised the UAE flag on a 123-metre-high flagpole, the seventh highest in the world.

During the ceremony, Shaikh Sultan honoured Monzir, the Emirati citizen who suggested the construction of the flagpole, and as he hoisted the flag into the air, 41 children from Police Friends, performed the oath of loyalty.

The event was attended by Shaikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Shurooq; Shaikh Khalid bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Department of Public Works; as well as many other notable dignitaries.

Speaking proudly, Shaikha Bodour said: “The UAE has witnessed, throughout the 41 years of the Union, numerous landmark achievements in its developmental, economic and social spheres, taking its place as a regional and international leader and becoming a global example to be emulated by others.”

She noted that the great points of strength enjoyed by the UAE and the milestone achievements made over the past four decades, would not have been possible without the wisdom and vision of the founding leaders of the Union, the Emirates’ sound leadership and the ambition of the Emirati people. She added: “The UAE flag is a symbol of the country’s dignity and prestige that must always be held high, just like the UAE and its people.”

Shaikha Bodour took the opportunity to extend her congratulations to the President, His Highness Shaikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan; Their Highnesses Members of the Supreme Council and Rulers of the Emirates; and the UAE people, on the glorious occasion of the country’s National Day.

Shaikh Sultan also spoke at the event: “The construction of Flag Island further emphasises the importance of the UAE flag as a symbol of the Emirates, which has managed, with confidence, to make great strides towards a better future while focusing on its rich legacy.”

Marwan bin Jassim Al Sarkal, Shurooq CEO, said: “The 2nd of December each year is a treasured occasion for both Emiratis and expatriates, as it offers us the opportunity to express our love, appreciation, and admiration for our home country and its leaders.”

He noted that the flagpole was commissioned just four weeks prior to its inauguration in a successful collaboration with the Sharjah Department of Public Works and Trident Support.

Expressing his pride at the completion of the Flag Island, which is set to become a tourist attraction and national icon, he lauded all those who were involved in the landmark project.

The inauguration ceremony, attended by a huge crowd of Emirati and expatriate residents included live musical shows performed by military bands from the Sharjah Police and concluded with the release of 41 pairs of white carrier pigeons, along with balloons in the colours of the UAE flag.

(KHALEEJ TIMES)