Dubai, November 4, 2025 — The United Arab Emirates celebrated its annual Flag Day today with nationwide enthusiasm and renewed emphasis on patriotism, unity, and respect for the national flag. Alongside the festivities, authorities issued stern warnings against any act of disrespect toward the UAE flag, reaffirming strict legal penalties for violations.
According to reports by Arab media, the UAE government has reminded residents and citizens that insulting, desecrating, or misusing the national flag constitutes a serious criminal offense under the country’s laws. Offenders could face up to 25 years in prison and a fine of up to AED 500,000 (approximately PKR 37.8 million).
Officials stressed that the UAE flag must always be displayed with dignity and handled in accordance with established protocols. It should be made of high-quality polyester, kept clean and untorn, and never allowed to touch the ground. The guidelines also prohibit attaching any object, logo, or decorative border to the flag, ensuring it remains a pure symbol of the nation’s honor and unity.
Furthermore, the use of the national flag in commercial advertisements, promotional designs, balloons, or food packaging has been explicitly banned. The new measures are intended to preserve the sanctity of one of the UAE’s most important national symbols ahead of the upcoming National Day celebrations on December 2, which mark the founding of the federation in 1971.
Flag Day, observed annually on November 3, is a key national event where government institutions, schools, and private organizations across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other emirates raise the flag simultaneously in tribute to the country’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
The UAE flag, featuring red, green, white, and black colors, symbolizes Arab unity, courage, peace, and strength. It was first hoisted in 1971 during the Eid Al Ittihad (Union Day) celebrations when the UAE was officially formed.
With National Day just weeks away, the latest announcement underlines the UAE’s firm stance on safeguarding its national symbols while promoting a culture of respect, patriotism, and shared identity among its diverse population.
