Abu dhabi: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) celebrates its 54th National Day tomorrow, marking another milestone in the country's impressive journey of economic and developmental achievements throughout 2025.
According to Qatar News Agency, the UAE's National Day remembrance aligns with the historic event on December 2, 1971, when the rulers of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, and Fujairah came together to form a modern federal state. Ras Al Khaimah later joined the union on February 10, 1972, completing the federation and setting the stage for nation-building and development.
Under the leadership of HH President of the United Arab Emirates Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE continues its pursuit of progress and prosperity. The union's spirit, established over five decades ago, remains a guiding force in the nation's development, enhancing its regional and global stature.
This year's celebrations coincide with Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's announcement of 2025 as the "Year of the Community," under the theme "Hand in Hand." This initiative underscores the leadership's vision of building an integrated and thriving society by focusing on skill development, talent nurturing, and innovation in diverse fields, including entrepreneurship and emerging industries.
The UAE is advancing its national objectives through "Vision 2031," a strategic plan targeting social, economic, investment, and environmental growth over the next decade. This initiative aims to strengthen the UAE's global partnerships, economic appeal, societal cohesion, and leadership in safety and security.
In 2025, the UAE economy exhibited robust growth, with the International Monetary Fund anticipating a 4.8 percent increase. Non-oil foreign trade surged to AED 1.7 trillion in the first half of the year, marking a 24.5 percent rise. The UAE also approved its largest federal budget for 2026, set at AED 92.4 billion, alongside launching the National Investment Strategy 2031 and the UAE Global Trade Hub to attract international companies.
Tourism contributed significantly to the national GDP, with a 13 percent increase, reaching AED 257.3 billion. More than 16.1 million guests visited UAE hotel establishments in the first half of 2025. Additionally, the launch of strategies in areas such as cybersecurity, talent acquisition, bureaucracy reduction, volunteerism, and the National Family Growth Agenda 2031, highlights the UAE's commitment to sustainable development.