The UAE Flag is not just a symbol, but it is the manifestation of national unity, pride, and respect. On November 3, all citizens of the country gather to raise the UAE flag high, applauding the power of the country and belonging to the same nation.

But not many know that not hoisting the flag properly can get the individual into severe legal consequences and even a jail term of up to 25 years and a penalty of up to AED 500,000. Governments have called upon all people to observe the official flag etiquette prior to the UAE flag day 2025 to make sure that all flags flying uphold the values they signify.

What Is UAE Flag Day?

The flag day is held on November 3 as a way of unifying and being proud of the United Arab Emirates. It is a day when the national flag is hoisted by government offices, individual organizations, schools, as well as residents in a very strong demonstration of unity.

On the day of the establishment of the UAE, in 1971, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan hoisted the UAE flag on the occasion of Eid Al Etihad. It, since then, has been a source of pride to the nation as a reminder of its progress, will, and cohesiveness.

Abdullah Al Maeena, a contestant in a contest organized by the Al-Ittihad Newspaper, to design the UAE flag, more than 50 years ago, is the one who designed the UAE flag. His design was selected because of its strong symbolism and graceful and simple design.

All colors symbolize the core values:

Red: Power, boldness, and solidarity.
Green: Hope, prosperity, and growth.
White: Peace, integrity, and innocence.
Black: Authority, pride, and overcoming inequality.

Why Flag Etiquette Matters

The UAE respects its national symbols the most. The flag is a symbol of the sacrifice of the founders and the souls of the people. Any offense that disrespects the flag, even without the intent, is seen as a serious offense.

The government, through the Ministry of Culture and Youth as well as the Ministry of Interior, reminds all that every year the raising, displaying, or handling of the flag should comply with certain legal and ethical requirements.

The Legal Penalties

Federal law No. 2, 1971, as amended under Federal law No.17, 2017, any act that demeans, harms or abuses the UAE flag subjects him or her to the following:

Up to 25 years in prison, and/or
A fine of up to AED 500,000

Such punishments are imposed on individuals, companies or organizations that deliberately or negligently defy the flag.

The use of a flag that is old, torn or even dirty is also a violation. Governments ask citizens to check flags often and change them as soon as they are damaged.

Flag Day Rules: How to Raise It the Right Way

This is how the UAE flag should be displayed and treated, according to official guidelines on the topic and governmental posts.

Flag Dos

High-quality polyester blend.

The flag must be fabricated using a sustainable material that is not shiny and also cannot be damaged by wind and sunlight.

Keep the flag 20-25 cm above the bottom.

It should not come into contact with the floor, the ground, or water. This minor gesture demonstrates dignity and prevents the flag from getting dirty.

Make sure that it is only the flag on the pole.

The pole to which are attached no ribbons, logos, or any other superfluous symbols.

Have it clean, ironed and without damage.

When a flag is wrinkled/torn, it is perceived as neglect. Wash it and change the one when it becomes a little dirty.

Fold it neatly after use.

When the flag is lowered, make it a point to fold it up and then put it away. Never toss or crumple it.

Display it correctly.

The colours should always be red, vertical stripe, then green, white and black respectively, starting with top to bottom.

Raise it at the right time.

During Flag Day, flags are hoisted at 11:00 AM throughout the UAE.

Light it properly at night.

When flying during the evening, ensure it is lit up.

Flag Don’ts

Get not weep, nor slander the flag.

These activities are deemed as crimes and may lead to jail and fines.

Don’t alter or decorate it.

The shape, colors, or proportions of the UAE flag should not be altered at all.

Don’t add logos or emblems.

The Presidential flag can only bear an emblem. No company and individual is allowed to alter the national flag.

Do not apply it to food, cakes and decorations.

It is disrespectful and not allowed to print or shape the flag on food or something that can be thrown away.

Never use the flag on clothes or vehicles.

Although flag colors are okay, one cannot use the flag as the design on clothes, cars, and commercial products.

Don’t leave it dirty or torn.

The legislation necessitates the flags to be in an ideal condition. A flag that is not taken care of is interpreted to lack national pride.

Display Rules for Homes, Schools, and Companies

The government offices, schools, and private companies need to hoist the UAE flag at 11:00 AM precisely on November 3. Every institution is advised to organize flag-raising events among teams and students in an attempt to create unity.

The residents are also allowed to hoist the flag at home in front of balconies, rooftops, or gardens but they should make sure:

The flagpole is fixed and immobile.
The flag is proportional (1 2 ratio).
It is not close to anything that may harm or spoil it, like air conditioners or vents.

What to Do With an Old or Damaged Flag

There should never be old flags that are discarded in the garbage. The proper way would be to dispose of them at the local municipalities or community centers.

There are even government offices that have the replacement drive of flags before the national holiday, where people are allowed to get a new flag in place of the old one.

This will not only make sure that all flags that will be seen on Flag Day are clean, bright, and reflect the honor of the nation.

The Spirit of November 3

As the clock strikes eleven every year, the UAE plays its national anthem across all commercial establishments and schools. The people stop, raise their flags, show respect and think about the journey since 1971.

The event represents something bigger than itself; it is a celebration of unity, resilience, and national identity.

UAE Flag Day is something on social media that trends with a hashtag where residents post pictures and explain what the flag means to them. Whenever we see the four colors flying together, we remind ourselves that no one color is sufficient to fly alone.

Voices of Leadership

UAE leaders have always put importance on national symbols. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, His Highness, once said.

Our flag is a representation of our togetherness, our independence and our ownership. “We heighten our nation’s values when we raise it high.”.

This conviction inspires every citizen and resident in the country to respect it not only by celebrating the festival but also by understanding and caring for it.

Final Message

To take part in a UAE Flag Day is actually an honor, pride, and identity. The flag represents what the UAE stands for. This includes unity, peace, and progress. It is protected by law.

So, as November 3 draws nearer, pat your flag handy, clean and proud. Taking a few minutes to pay attention may show how much respect you have and save you from an expensive mistake.