The story of sacrifice behind UAE Commemoration Day

Every year on November 30, the UAE pauses for Commemoration Day, a patriotic occasion dedicated to honouring the brave Emiratis who have sacrificed their lives in service to their nation. This day of remembrance is a powerful symbol of the UAE's enduring values of courage, loyalty and unity.

- Ruqayya Al Qaydi [e-mail]

Abu Dhabi's Wahat Al Karama, the central point of the nation's Commemoration Day activities.

(WAM FILE PHOTO)

The story behind this significant day is deeply intertwined with the nation's history, beginning with a pivotal moment of defiance just two days before the UAE's official formation.

The selection of November 30 as Commemoration Day is a direct tribute to the UAE's first martyr, Salem Suhail bin Khamis Al Dahmani. On this day in 1971, the 20-year-old policeman made the ultimate sacrifice while defending his homeland's sovereignty.

At the time, Salem was the head of a small, six-man police post on the island of Greater Tunb, which belonged to the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah.