President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, along with other Sheikhs and state guests, today witnessed the March of the Union as part of the Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival 2023 in Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi, commemorating the 52nd UAE Union Day.

The March was also attended by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of the Kingdom of Bahrain; Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, President of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania; and several other state guests.

The March, organised by the Presidential Court and including the participation of tribal members from all regions of the UAE, was also witnessed by His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court; H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi; H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler's Representative in the Al Dhafra Region; H.H. Sheikh Tahnoon bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, the Ruler's Representative in the Al Ain Region; H.H. Sheikh Saif bin Mohammed Al Nahyan; H.H. Sheikh Suroor bin Mohammed Al Nahyan; H.H. Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior; H.H. Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan; H.H. Sheikh Omar bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Zayed Foundation for Charitable and Humanitarian Works; H.H. Sheikh Khalid bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination (ZHO); H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan; H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan; H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the National Media Office; Sheikh Sultan bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, Adviser to the UAE President; and Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence; along with several other sheikhs and senior officials.

His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan exchanged greetings with participating tribal members as they passed the platform. He expressed his pride and esteem for UAE citizens as they presented authentic aspects of national heritage, demonstrating their sense of pride, belonging, and national spirit.

The March of the Union saw the participation of a large number of tribes representing various emirates and regions of the UAE, expressing their pride, joy, and jubilation on the occasion of the 52nd Union Day. They also showed their esteem for the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and his brothers, the members of the Federal Supreme Council and Rulers of the Emirates.

The people of the Emirates showcased a variety of traditional and folk songs, reflecting their deep-rooted connection and history in this bountiful land. They also presented national-themed displays expressing their sense of belonging and love for the nation, waving the UAE flag and reaffirming their allegiance to its leadership.

The March of the Union is a key highlight of the Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival and a central part of the country's annual Union Day celebrations. It features a rich cultural and folk mix as tribal communities perform their arts in front of the main platform in Al Wathba.

Tribal processions set off from Qasr Al Hosn gate, proudly waving national flags and singing folk songs that expressed their joy and pride in this blessed land. The event included a horse show segment, featuring various formations of skilled riders demonstrating their prowess on horseback.

H.H. Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, and H.H. Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, performed the traditional Ayala dance, joined by several other Sheikhs, expressing their pride and honour on this special national occasion alongside the loyal citizens of the UAE.