History of the UAE is closely linked to the national flag and essential features adhered to on Flag Day

UAE first celebrated Flag Day in 2013 and is observed annually on November 3. Government entities and departments as well as ministries hoist the national flag on buildings on this day. The Cabinet has issued a procedural guide on the use of the UAE flag to preserve its prestige and status as a symbol of the country and national honour for the people of the UAE.

The history of the United Arab Emirates is closely linked to the national flag and is significant in honouring the country's past, unity, and visionary leadership. Five essential features of Flag Day include:

- The UAE flag comprises four colors “red” denoting bravery, hardiness, and strength, paying homage to the sacrifices of past generations; “green” representing hope, joy, and prosperity, showcasing the nation’s cultural renaissance; “white” symbolizes honesty, cleanliness, and the UAE’s charitable endeavors, advocating for global peace and “black” signifying Emiratis’ resilience against adversaries, standing against injustice and extremism.

- The design of the flag came from a young Emirati named Abdullah Mohammed Al Maainah inspired by Safieddine Al Hila poem and for him, red signified sacrifice, reminiscent of the Ottoman flag; green mirrored the Fatimids Caliphate, while white referenced Prophet Mohammed’s early victories. Black represented the country’s historical ties and the transformative power of oil.

- UAE’s Founding Father Sheikh Zayed was the first to hoist the flag on the historic day of the emirates’ union, December 2, 1971.

- There are stringent standards to be followed in the making of the flag. It must be crafted from nylon, and weigh 122.5 g per square meter with the quality and adherence to national standards ensured. 

- On November 4th, 2004, the nation commemorates the day that Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan took office as president. On this day, the UAE honours the extraordinary nation-building endeavours started by the late Sheikh Zayed, the visionary founding father, as well as the country's current position under President Sheikh Khalifa.