On December 2, 1971, the 7 emirates announced their independence from Britain and became the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The unity of the seven emirates has created an influential nation, with a flourishing economy, oil reserves, an abundance of tourists, and proudly some of the tallest buildings in the world.
There are some interesting facts about the country , being a desert country there are no rivers and has an estimated 40 million date palms. There are around 200 nationalities that live and work in the country and an impressive 93% literacy rate.
The 51st National day celebration took place at the Sheraton Hotel in Pretoria where H. E. Ambassador Mahsh Saeed Al-Hamli addressed the numerous Heads of Missions and honoured guests. H.E. highlighted 4 of the 10 initiatives for the next 50 years. The first one being foreign policy where focus will be on strengthening unity , peace and stability.
Guest speak Mr Alvin Botes addressed the audience virtually, he reminded guests of diplomatic relations that were formulated between SA and the UAE in 1994 .
South Africa and the UAE continue to strengthen their engagements in many areas.
Happy National Day!
