UAE declares public holiday on November 30 to mark Martyrs’ Day

The United Arab Emirates has declared November 30 as Martyrs’ Day, to be observed with a public holiday every year, official news agency WAM reported.

Martyrs’ Day will mark the sacrifice of those who have died in the line of duty for the UAE, recognising their sacrifices and dedication.

UAE President Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan said the day will pay tribute to the “sacrifices offered by the nation’s martyrs and its loyal people, who offered their lives so as to keep the UAE flag flying aloft while they were performing their national duties within and outside the country, in civilian, military and humanitarian fields”.

A number of events and activities will be held across the country, with participation from government institutions, Emiratis and residents to mark the values of dedication, diligence and loyalty, the WAM report added.

Three soldiers from the UAE were killed earlier this month while fighting in Yemen as part of a Saudi-led coalition conducting air strikes against Houthi rebels.

Other military and non-military personnel from the Emirates also lost their lives to the conflict since it began in March.