WASHINGTON, DC (December 3, 2025) — The Embassy of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in Washington, D.C. celebrated the UAE’s 54th National Day under the theme “Unity and Progress”, marking another year of strong partnership and deep people-to-people ties between the UAE and the United States.
UAE Ambassador Yousef Al Otaiba welcomed community partners and distinguished guests from across government, business, healthcare, education, media, technology and the diplomatic corps to commemorate the UAE’s 2025 “Year of Community” under the theme “Hand in Hand” — a reflection of the shared belief that the most meaningful progress is built through connection, cooperation, and service.
Among the distinguished attendees at the event were U.S. Secretary of Energy Doug Burgum, U.S. Senator Mark Warner (VA); U.S. Senator Michael Raines (MO), U.S. Senator James Lankford (OK), U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (IA), U.S. Representative Joe Wilson (SC), U.S. Representative Brad Schneider (IL), U.S. Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security Troy Edgar and U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz. Their presence underscored the strength of the bilateral relationship.
“Our greatest achievements happen when the UAE and the United States reach out to one another,” Ambassador Al Otaiba said in his remarks, underscoring the real-world partnerships that define the bilateral relationship — from advancing pediatric care at Children’s National Hospital through the Sheikh Zayed Institute, to supporting youth recreation programs nationwide, responding together to disasters, strengthening environmental conservation efforts, and expanding U.S.–UAE collaboration in innovation, science, and sustainability.
“In classrooms, hospitals, neighborhoods, and communities across both our countries,” he continued, “we are writing a story of shared purpose — one based not simply on strategic cooperation, but on genuine friendship.”
The celebration, held at the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium in downtown Washington, DC, showcased Emirati culture, creativity, and collaboration, including a special live performance by acclaimed Emirati singer Arqam Al Abri and a culinary presentation led by internationally recognized Twin Chefs Abdulrahman and Maitha Al Hashmi. At just 17 years old, the twins are among the youngest certified culinary talents in the UAE and rising ambassadors for cultural exchange through food.
Throughout the evening, guests enjoyed interactive culinary stations, cultural displays, and immersive storytelling that celebrated the collaborative achievements of both nations, reinforcing the theme that community-building remains central to the U.S.–UAE relationship.
“As we look around tonight,” Ambassador Al Otaiba concluded, “we see friends, colleagues, and partners who share a belief that when we work together — hand in hand — we can create opportunity, deliver hope, and build a brighter future for generations to come.”
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