On December 2, 1971, the UAE’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, proudly raised the national flag for the first time during National Day celebrations. The flag, featuring its iconic red, green, white, and black colors, was designed by Abdullah Al Maeena as part of a contest by Al-Ittihad newspaper.
The UAE flag isn’t just a national symbol—it represents the unity, history, and values of the Emirates, cherished by Emiratis and residents alike. To honor this symbol, it’s important to follow the protocols and etiquette set by the nation to maintain its dignity and respect.
Here’s a guide to properly using, displaying, and caring for the UAE flag during celebrations or everyday use.
When printing the flag on fabric, ensure it’s made of high-polyester material or sustainable polyester with a matte finish. The UAE Government specifies the exact proportions and color shades for the flag to ensure its uniformity.
Guidelines for Using the UAE Flag
- Street Hanging: When displayed in the middle of a street, the flag should hang vertically with the red section at the top and the other three colors below. This ensures the flag is visible vertically from any direction.
- Buildings: The flag can be displayed vertically or on a pole at an angle from a balcony or window. The red section must always be at the top, with the black section to the left when viewed directly.
- Official Visits: During official international visits or when hosting foreign delegations, the flag should be displayed horizontally.
- Tables: On meeting tables, the flag should be placed in front of the Emirati delegation. If displayed with another organization’s flag, ensure the UAE flag is larger.
- Scarves: Flags printed on scarves should be vertical, with the red section on top.
- Military and Sports Uniforms: Flags displayed on uniforms must remain upright, with the red section on the right in all positions.
Rules for Flag Care and Maintenance
- Keep it clean and ironed: The flag should always look neat and presentable.
- Replace if damaged: Regularly replace torn or faded flags to maintain their dignity.
- Inspect before raising: Check for damage, fading, or wear before raising the flag.
- Post-storm checks: After storms or harsh weather, inspect the flag to ensure it’s intact and untangled.
- Proper disposal: If the flag is damaged, lower it slowly, fold it properly, and store it. To discard, cut it into pieces so it no longer resembles a flag. Avoid burning to protect the environment.
- No disrespect: Never drop, tear, or treat the flag disrespectfully. Violations are punishable under Article 3 of Federal Decree-Law No. 13 of 2019.
- Folding after events: Fold the flag neatly after events or official duties.
- Avoid ground contact: When lowering the flag, ensure it doesn’t touch the ground and store it in a case.
- Prevent contact with objects: Keep the flag free from contact with shrubs, walls, or other objects to avoid wear and tear.
- No logos or emblems: The flag should remain plain unless it’s the Presidential Flag, which features the UAE emblem in the white section.
- No decorations or alterations: Avoid adding edges, decorations, or changing the proportions of the flag for any purpose.
- Do not print the flag on disposable materials or edible items like cakes or sweets.
- Never use the flag as a decorative element, logo, or part of typography.
By following these guidelines, you can honor the UAE flag and its deep significance while ensuring it remains a proud and respected national symbol.
