December 2, 2008, the country celebrated National Day - the 37th anniversary of the united federal state of the UAE. In honor of such a significant event on Dubai Creek, a sea parade was held under the slogan "National Day - Life in Unity", which was headed by Sheikh Majid bin Muhammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum, chairman of the Dubai Department of Culture and Art. In front of modern sailboats, traditional arabic dow boats decorated with UAE national flags passed. A multi-colored fleet of ships of various shapes and sizes, old and new, fast and slow, has become a symbol of the friendly relations of the inhabitants of Dubai with other emirates, as well as a tribute to the ancient port of the Persian Gulf.
The most famous people of the country - artists and singers, poets and writers, as well as athletes walked along the bay in boats and yachts. The solemn march of the coast guard completed the parade to the enthusiastic applause of the residents and guests of the city. Solemn events and festivities were held in all seven emirates. The capital of the UAE - Abu Dhabi, where a grandiose firework was held, lasting 45 minutes, was especially distinguished by the scale of the celebration of National Day.
