Forty-six years ago this Sunday, the UAE celebrated its first National Day.
Sheikh Zayed, the Founding Father, presided over the festivities in Dubai, which included a parade and the performance of the new national anthem by Egyptian singer Nagat Al Saghira.
The union had a lot to celebrate in its first year, including membership in the UN; the joining of Ras Al Khaimah in February, two months after the country was established; the creation of the Federal National Council; and even the founding of the Emirates Scout Association.
Several emirates had their own chapters in the association from as early as 1957, and in this image, a scout from the Al Ain chapter carries the club’s flag as part of the inaugural National Day celebrations.
One year later, the Girl Guides established a national chapter, and today, children participate in Scouting and Guiding activities across the country.
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