The American University in Dubai celebrates The 37th UAE National Day

The event, dubbed "UAE National Night at AUD" and organized by AUD's Khaleeji Cultural Club, was a festival of cultural and artistic displays and performances by Emirati and Khaleeji artists.

Present at the event were Dr. Lance de Masi, President of AUD, Mr. Elias Bou Saab, AUD's Executive Vice President, Dr. Jihad Nader, AUD's Provost and Chief Academic Officer, with other members of the University's faculty and staff bodies, and prominent social figures from the local community, all joining the student body in its tribute to its beloved UAE. Students from various schools and universities across the UAE and friends and families all joined in the festivities.

Held in association with The Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) Office, the ceremony kicked off with the UAE National Anthem ensued by a welcome video prepared by the Khaleeji Cultural Club, filmed on various locations across the country. The film displayed the true colors and richness of the UAE heritage and received a standing ovation by the audience.

Abdullah Al Gergawi, President of the Khaleeji Cultural Club at AUD, emphasized the indispensability of the sense of "nationalism" among the youth stating, "The UAE National Day is a celebration of the country's norms and heritage. It sheds lights on the young local talents and inspires the youth to become fervent advocates of community service and volunteer work." He added, "The event is but a customized information packet for expatriates to educate them on the country's customs and traditions."

The event's scenery was ornamented by photographs representing the rich historical fabric and traditions of the UAE. Visitors were greeted with a UAE Majlis surrounded by live traditional cooking stations serving local cuisine, while being entertained by UAE folklore performers. In addition, traditional art crafts by local artists were displayed highlighting the potency of the local talent. Live poetry recitals by renowned UAE poets and onstage performances by UAE singers entertained the beholders.

Fun elements were presented in the heritage village where scenes of the Emirati traditional facet were depicted through several activities such as the "local souq," "falcon shows" and the "camel rides" that composed a historical account of the heritage of the UAE and paved the way for the participants to experience the country's genuine identity.

Veronique Lemieux, Student Activities Coordinator at AUD, commented:

"The University takes pride in the Khaleeji Cultural Club for their tremendous effort in preparing and organizing this wonderful event. The UAE National Night is a very dear event to the hearts of our students, and we are all delighted to host such a celebration."

The Khaleeji Cultural Club at AUD was set up in 2002 to unite the students from the GCC countries with the purpose of introducing the AUD community to the region's culture, values and traditions.