Remembering the martyrs
Residents gathered yesterday for a minute of silence to honour the fallen heroes of the country in a solemn ceremony observed in all corners of the UAE. Prayers were offered in the silent vigil to honour the sacrifices made by UAE soldiers who were remembered as part of the country’s annual Commemoration Day.
Government and private institutions marked the official remembrance ceremony beginning at 8am when flags were lowered, followed by a silent prayer at 11.30am. The UAE flags were raised again at 11.31am as the national anthem was played in the background.
The occasion, which was first announced in 2015 following a decree by President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, was marked on November 29 this year, a day earlier than its official date, since November 30 falls on a Friday this year.
Abu Dhabi corniche saw people of various nationalities standing side by side with Emiratis in observing a minute’s silence. In Sharjah, a number of government employees gathered at Sharjah’s Flag Island to pay respect to the martyrs. Gulf News also held a commemorative event at its headquarters in Dubai to pay tribute to the martyrs.