On 2 December, the United Arab Emirates marks its 54th National Day, commemorating the union of its seven emirates in 1971 and the beginning of a remarkable nation-building journey. This year’s theme, “United,” reflects the cohesion, resilience and shared purpose that continue to define the country’s development.
Throughout the Emirates, the celebrations bring together communities through cultural shows, public events and heritage displays. Streets and landmarks across the country are lit with flags and decorative installations, blending national pride with the UAE’s innovative character as people join in honouring their shared identity.
UAE Media: A Chronicle of National Growth
Since the Union’s foundation, the UAE’s media has served as the country’s collective memory and an essential channel for sharing national milestones. With the shift towards digital engagement, the sector expanded to include interactive and participatory platforms that engage younger generations and encourage creative storytelling.
Today, the UAE’s media industry spans traditional and digital formats, combining newspapers, radio, television and online channels. Collectively, these outlets reflect the UAE’s strategic vision and project its image across the world through diverse, modern and multilingual communication tools.
From Early Broadcasts to Digital Pioneering
The evolution of UAE media features several major milestones. Al-Ittihad’s launch in 1969 marked the beginning of the UAE’s national press, while Sharjah’s Voice of the Coast radio began broadcasting in 1964. Dubai TV became the first channel to broadcast the Union in 1971, followed by Sharjah TV’s launch in 1989, strengthening the country’s audiovisual landscape.
Al-Ittihad’s digital version, introduced in 1996, marked the UAE’s early entry into online journalism. Today, digital platforms dominate news consumption, particularly among younger users who prefer real-time, video-driven content.
By 2025, UAE media utilises short videos, AI-supported production tools and data-driven storytelling across popular platforms including TikTok, Instagram and YouTube, ensuring content remains accessible and reflective of UAE priorities.
A Celebration Enhanced by Digital Innovation
This year’s celebrations highlight how the UAE blends technology with heritage. Whether at home or abroad, people can take part in the festivities through virtual environments, including AR, VR and metaverse experiences that deepen their engagement with the national celebration.
Online platforms are filled with creative posts capturing the spirit of the event. Patriotic messages, photography and short videos flow across social channels under hashtags such as #SpiritOfTheUnion and #UAE54, while digital creators help amplify the nation’s accomplishments.
Media Advancing National Goals
In 2025, the UAE’s media sector continues to expand, driven by technological innovation and government backing. Industry revenues are expected to reach AED 56.5 billion, with digital media accounting for AED 42.5 billion—a clear sign of the sector’s shifting dynamics.
More than 2,500 media licences and permits were issued in the first half of the year, while initiatives like the Media Professionals programme enhance the skills of Emirati talent to meet the demands of the digital era.
The Arab Media Summit 2025 also brought together thousands of media experts, reinforcing the UAE’s role as a regional platform for dialogue and innovation.
Strengthening the UAE’s Global Standing
UAE media has played a vital part in showcasing the country’s achievements across key sectors, including tourism, investment, culture, innovation and the creative economy. The year 2025 saw major economic achievements, including AED 2.3 trillion in foreign trade, AED 660 billion in non-oil GDP and over 200,000 newly registered companies.
Comprehensive media coverage of these milestones helped reinforce the UAE’s reputation as a global hub for business, creativity and investment.
Strategic Media Relations
During the 54th National Day celebrations, Abdullah Inayat, Co-Founder and CEO of W7Worldwide Strategic Communications Agency, congratulated the UAE’s leaders and citizens, underscoring the strong ties between the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
He stated: “We believe in building sustainable partnerships that enhance national narratives and strengthen strategic communication. We look forward to expanding our collaboration with Emirati institutions to achieve even greater success.”
Expanding UAE–Saudi Media Partnerships
The UAE and Saudi Arabia continue to strengthen cooperation in areas including trade, digital infrastructure, energy, advanced technology and entrepreneurship. Saudi exports to the UAE include chemicals, machinery, metals and precious stones, while investments continue to grow across innovation-driven sectors.
Media collaboration between the two nations is expanding, with coordinated campaigns, shared content strategies and professional exchange programmes helping to reinforce a unified Gulf narrative internationally.
Honouring a Nation’s Legacy
The UAE’s 54th National Day stands as a celebration of national pride, heritage and shared ambition. United by strong leadership and a forward-focused vision, the UAE continues to advance with confidence.
Empowered by cutting-edge media and impactful storytelling, the national media sector remains a driving force in portraying the UAE’s achievements and strengthening its global presence as a nation that blends its authentic identity with progressive ambition.
