The UAE national flag. ARCHIVE

The Watani Al Emarat Foundation launched the Flag Protectors campaign on Monday (October 23) to promote the culture of respecting and preserving the UAE national flag. “We urge all citizens and residents of our beloved country to participate actively in these national efforts to protect our identity,” said Dherar Belhoul Al Falasi, Executive Director of Watani Al Emarat Foundation. On December 2, 1971, a federal law was created enacted by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan on Flag Day of the UAE and on the rules and regulations for dealing with the flag.

Here are 13 rules you should know:

1. The UAE flag must not be hung or raised lower than any other flag. At local events, the UAE flag must be positioned at the Place of Honour, to the observer’s left. Other flags are sorted alphabetically next to the UAE flag. 2. In local events, the UAE flag must be raised first, followed by the other flags. 3. UAE flags must be made from polyester or heavy polyamide threads (100 percent Nylon). Avoid the use of silk. 4. Do not add any symbols to the state flag. 5. Do not use the flag for decoration, costume or any other uses that violate the original purpose of using the flag. 6. Do not print the flag on disposable materials such as pillows, napkins or boxes. 7. Do not wrap the flag around any shapes or forms, or use it as a cover for any item or object. 8. Do not use the flag for commercial purposes, as a trademark or as part of a trademark or for advertising and publicity. 9. Do not decorate the flag or add any designs or images, or attach any pins to it. 10. The flag must be cleaned and ironed regularly. 11. Don’t raise a flag that is damaged, worn or discoloured. Replace flags that are damaged. When replacing a damaged flag, lower it slowly, then fold it and keep it in a suitable place. 12. Don’t burn the UAE flag. 13. It is forbidden to drop, destroy or insult the flag in any way. Such acts include tearing it apart, lowering it from a raised position or committing any act that expresses contempt, hatred, or disrespect towards the flag. This is illegal in the UAE and subject to penalties, including jail time.

History of UAE flag

On December 2, 1971, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan officially raised the UAE flag for the first time, declaring the independence and sovereignty of the then newly established United Arab Emirates.

What UAE flag colours mean

White: Good deeds, generosity, and bountifulness that distinguishes Emiratis. Red: The sacrifices made by the previous generation of Emiratis to protect the motherland, its accomplishments and its values. Green: Growth, prosperity and flourishing vibrancy. Black: Strength, resilience and courage. Source: UAE Government Media Office
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