Abu Dhabi witnessed a profound historical narrative unfold on December 2nd as the UAE President and Rulers of all seven emirates convened for the 54th Eid Al Etihad ceremony at the newly inaugurated Zayed National Museum. This inaugural event at the architectural marvel designed by Foster + Partners served as both a National Day celebration and preview of the institution set to open to the public on December 3rd.
The production masterfully transcended conventional historical presentation through multi-sensory storytelling. The desert landscape itself assumed the role of narrator, accompanied by archival radio recordings and citizen voices, guiding attendees through millennia of regional history. The ceremony challenged temporal boundaries by fluidly transitioning between ancient civilizations, pre-Union Bedouin communities, and contemporary achievements.
A particularly poignant moment featured restored footage of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan driving his 1966 Chrysler Newport through the desert in 1968, his voice resonating through the hall with the traditional greeting ‘Y Marhba ya Zain’ (hello beautiful). The vehicle, meticulously restored after being located in the United States, now constitutes a centerpiece of the museum’s permanent collection.
Technological innovation merged with artistic expression as drone formations over Abu Dhabi reconstructed symbolic artifacts from the museum’s holdings. These aerial displays represented archaeological treasures including the 8,000-year-old Abu Dhabi Pearl, the ancient metalworking site of Saruq Al Hadid, and carnelian trade beads demonstrating early commercial networks.
The historical journey culminated with archival footage documenting the pivotal meetings between Sheikh Zayed and fellow rulers preceding the 1971 federation. The original radio broadcast announcing the UAE’s formation was seamlessly integrated into the ceremony, creating an auditory bridge across decades.
Cultural milestones were achieved as the newly formed UAE National Orchestra delivered its inaugural public performance of the national anthem ‘Ishy Biladi’, uniting Emirati and international musicians. The production further highlighted post-union advancements in sustainability, nuclear energy, medical research, and space exploration, symbolized by a Mirage 2000-9 jet’s ascent representing extraterrestrial ambition.
The ceremony concluded with children’s performances emphasizing unity and responsibility, reinforcing that Sheikh Zayed’s legacy continues evolving through future generations who will shape the nation’s destiny.