Statement by H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, on Union Pledge Day 2026

Abu Dhabi, 17 July 2026:

H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, emphasized that 'Union Pledge Day' embodies the values of unity and cohesion, the principles that guided the steadfast approach of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and his brothers, the Rulers of the Emirates, when they gathered on 18 July 1971 to sign the declaration of the Union and the UAE Constitution. This historic milestone laid the cornerstone for the Union, establishing a nation that unites its people under one flag, ensuring a dignified life, and paving the way for a prosperous future.

"This cherished national occasion, established by UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, serves as a significant milestone to reflect on the foundational values of the UAE’s development and its unique growth journey," H.E. said. "At the forefront of these values are loyalty to our wise leadership, dedicated collaborative efforts to advance the nation, and the reinforcement of our national identity. It reflects the remarkable ability of the UAE’s people to transform ambitions into tangible achievements that serve both the individual and society."

H.E. further stated: "The UAE's journey has proven that the Union's pledge is a sustainable approach that has driven the country to achieve remarkable milestones. Its unwavering values continue to serve as the primary driver for progress and prosperity. Today, amidst rapid global shifts, the UAE is moving confidently toward a thriving future across various sectors, particularly the economy."

H.E. continued: "On this occasion, we renew our resolve, drawing inspiration from the journey of the late Founding Father and his brothers, the UAE Rulers, as well as the directives of our wise leadership. We pledge to continue developing pioneering economic initiatives and policies that bolster sustainable growth and foster a more innovative and competitive economy. This aligns with the objectives of the 'We the UAE 2031' vision, which aims to position the UAE among the top nations globally across all fields."