Across the United Arab Emirates, November 30th stands as a sacred date marked by profound national reverence. Commemoration Day represents far more than ceremonial observance—it embodies the very spirit of sacrifice that forged the nation’s identity. This annual tribute finds its origins in a defining moment of courage that occurred mere days before the UAE’s formal establishment in 1971.
The narrative centers upon Salem Suhail bin Khamis Al Dahmani, a 20-year-old policeman stationed on Greater Tunb Island, then under the jurisdiction of Ras Al Khaimah. On November 30, 1971, Iranian military forces attempted to seize strategic islands in the Gulf, including Greater Tunb. Their demand was straightforward yet symbolically devastating: lower the Ras Al Khaimah flag from the police outpost. Salem’s refusal to surrender the banner cost him his life, transforming him into the nation’s first officially recognized martyr and establishing an enduring legacy of sovereignty and valor.
This act of ultimate sacrifice became institutionalized in 2015 through a presidential decree by the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, permanently designating November 30 as Commemoration Day. The nation’s remembrance rituals follow precisely orchestrated protocols: flags descend to half-mast nationwide at 8:00 AM, followed by a complete national standstill at 11:30 AM for a minute of silent contemplation. The ceremony culminates with the raising of the flag and the national anthem at 11:31 AM.
The physical embodiment of this national memory exists at Wahat Al Karama (Oasis of Dignity) in Abu Dhabi. This monumental memorial features 31 interconnected aluminum tablets symbolizing unity between leadership and citizens, inscribed with poetic verses from UAE leaders. The Pavilion of Honor forms the emotional core, where Salem’s name leads the roll call of martyrs engraved on panels crafted from recycled military vehicle aluminum—a powerful metaphor for transformation from conflict to peace.
Through these layered traditions and physical monuments, the UAE perpetuates the values demonstrated by Salem Suhail: unwavering loyalty, national unity, and the eternal price of sovereignty.