Al Farooq Omar bin Al Khattab Mosque & Centre Celebrates the UAE’s 53rd National Day Under the Theme: “Citizenship: The Foundation of a Happy Society”

27 Nov 2024, Dubai: The Al Farooq Omar bin Al Khattab Mosque & Centre hosted a special national event to mark the 53rd National Day of the United Arab Emirates under the theme: “Citizenship: The Foundation of a Happy Society.” The event was held under the patronage and unwavering support of Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor and was attended by school students and a wide community audience.

The event began with a speech delivered by Abdul Salam Al Marzooqi, General Manager of the Al Farooq Omar bin Al Khattab Mosque & Centre, on behalf of Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor, the founder and patron of the Al Farooq Omar bin Al Khattab Mosque & Centre. In his remarks, he stated: “We are delighted to hold this event in celebration of the UAE’s 53rd National Day. On this occasion, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE; His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai; Their Highnesses, the Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the Emirates; the Crown Princes and Deputy Rulers; and to the entire Emirati nation.”

The event featured inspiring speeches from key speakers. Sheikh Dr. Fares Al Mustafa, Imam, and Preacher of Al Farooq Mosque, emphasized the importance of citizenship as a fundamental Islamic value that strengthens societal cohesion and happiness. He remarked:

“Love for one’s country and working for its betterment are intrinsic to our noble religion. Citizenship is not merely a geographical affiliation; it is a collective responsibility to achieve goodness and growth. In the UAE, we live in a unique model of national unity based on tolerance, justice, and equality for all. These principles were firmly established by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, may Allah rest their souls. We must all work to uphold these values and make the happiness of our society our ultimate goal, for the happiness of the nation lies in the happiness of its people.”

Ms. Naeema Khalfan Al Shamsi, Director of the Family Development Department at the Community Development Authority, also spoke about the role of citizenship in building a strong and stable society. She said: “True citizenship goes beyond merely belonging to a nation; it is reflected in fulfilling duties and fostering national values. In the UAE, every individual living on this blessed land—citizen or resident—forms part of its national fabric. This nation, which has become a global model for coexistence among diverse cultures, calls upon us all to remain loyal and exert every effort to sustain its prosperity. Citizenship is a moral and social contract between the individual and society, where we perform our duties and receive our rights, thereby solidifying the pillars of happiness and prosperity for all.”

The event also featured remarkable student contributions that added a patriotic touch. Hala Al Nabhan from Emirates International School – Meadows delivered a heartfelt speech titled “The Nation is Our Honor,” highlighting the nation’s deep-rooted place in the hearts of its people. Meanwhile, Hasan Waleed from Emirates International School – Jumeirah shed light on the efforts of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum in founding the Union and building the nation’s progress.

The event concluded with a spirited performance of the UAE National Anthem by a group of students, resonating with pride and joy among the attendees. The celebration underscored the enduring spirit of unity that binds the diverse members of the community under one flag, founded on unity and love.