A montage of Dubai establishments, homes and residents flying the UAE flag. EXPAT MEDIA

Residents across Dubai raised the UAE flag in homes, buildings, and public spaces following a call from the country’s leadership, turning the city into a widespread display of unity. On April 9, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, urged citizens and residents to raise the UAE flag as a symbol of collective strength and belonging. As of Tuesday (April 14), Expat Media editors noted that flags were displayed prominently on residential buildings and commercial establishments across areas including International City, Deira, Mirdif, Downtown Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, Jumeirah, and Umm Ramool. In some neighbourhoods, nearly every building carried the UAE flag. Delivery riders were also seen carrying flags on their motorcycles, while electronic road signs displayed messages such as “Proud of UAE”. “The UAE faced recent challenges united and has come through them stronger and more cohesive. Everyone stood behind one flag,” Sheikh Mohammed said. “The UAE flag reflects our strength and what we have built as a country. I invite everyone to raise it across homes and workplaces.” Residents said the call resonated deeply, especially among long-term expatriates. Alisa D’Souza, founder of Alisa PR marketing and consultancy firm, told Expat Media: “I was born and raised in the UAE. Forty-seven years of calling this place home. For many, the UAE is an opportunity. For others, it is a destination. But for a growing number of people, it is something far more profound, it is home in every sense of the word.” She added: “We are part of the UAE’s story, not on the margins of it but woven into its progress.” Jenna, a Filipina resident who has lived in Dubai for nine years, told Expat Media: “The UAE will always be home to me. I feel incredibly proud to be able to show my appreciation to this country by displaying the UAE flag.” Sheikh Mohammed also acknowledged the role of citizens and residents in the country’s development. “We take pride in our country, our President, our Armed Forces, our economy, and all citizens and residents who move this country forward every day,” he said. PIA/CAM/Expat Media
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