52nd UAE Union Day show: Mesmerising performance showcases nation’s past, present and future

Inviting the world to unite in the fight against climate change, the fully immersive program saw the participation of over 7,000 people

Telling the history of the UAE through the traditional art of Sadu and showcasing its commitment to sustainability, the official 52nd UAE Union Day show was staged at Expo City in front of world leaders and global delegates participating in COP28.

Inviting the world to unite in the fight against climate change, the fully immersive programme saw the participation of over 7,000 people, who began rehearsing for it in April 2023.

Split into five acts, the mesmerizing 30-minute performance presented in both English and Arabic took spectators on a journey through the past, present and future of the UAE while also introducing them to some actionists who are impacting the world with their work. Viewers sat in the middle as the stage revolved around them. A live orchestra played the music, composed by Mohamed Al Ahmed.

In a nod to sustainability, fireworks were omitted from this year’s performance and instead, reusable props were used. Moreover, sustainable materials were used in the construction of the stage. Last year’s theme song was also reused in the finale of the act to drive home the message.

Here is a brief look how the program unfolded:

Founding story of the UAE

Beginning with a traditional folk song that Emiratis sing when doing the traditional art of Sadu, the act introduces viewers to the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. When he founded the UAE, the conservation of both culture and nature were of utmost importance to him. These values were retained by the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who threaded them with modern innovations. Today, UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan carries the legacy towards a prosperous, sustainable future for our land.

An artisan wearing the traditional Emirati face covering is shown doing the Sadu craft.

A live military salute is also shown during this act.

Scene 2: Nature’s beauty

This act introduces viewers to actionists who are crafting their own path of sustainability with their work. The most compelling part of this act is the performance by acrobats who perform gravity-defying acts.