Dubai, UAE, 28 November 2019:   du, from Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company (EITC), is uniting with the National Archive to unveil a treasure trove of rare historic footage and images in time for 48th National Day celebrations. By unlocking and sharing nostalgic memories of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), du and the National Archive are calling on citizens and residents to join in recollecting and sharing their invaluable UAE stories and remembrances as the country celebrates the significant occasion. 

The exclusive glimpse into the past aims to unite the UAE’s people as they exchange memories and admiration for their homeland on the 48th National Day. The release of exclusive footage and images will build on this notion by offering a nostalgic journey under themes including memories of the nation’s founding father Sheikh Zayed, education, women empowerment, and traditional celebrations and crafts. 

‘Reflecting on the UAE’s rich and proud history’

Speaking about the initiative, Abdulwahed Juma, Executive Vice President – Brand & Communications, du, said: “As part of the UAE's 48th National Day celebrations, we must take time to pause and recall the rich cultural and historical heritage, customs, arts, and crafts that characterise the UAE. This is a special opportunity for us all to reflect on the wise visions of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the leaders of the UAE in the past and present. The main purpose of this initiative, which we proudly launched in collaboration with the UAE National Archives, is to inspire UAE nationals and residents to reflect on our past through a journey of nostalgic memories. The aim of this is to encourage them to share their stories and memories of the UAE, to take stock of the nation’s achievements, and to enable the future aspirations sought by our leaders with a will that knows no bounds.”

The National Archives are aligned to du’s efforts to make this inspiring initiative a success in conjunction with the nationwide celebrations taking place throughout the UAE on the occasion of the 48th National Day. Through this initiative, the UAE’s proud cultural heritage will be shared in full harmony with the objectives of the National Archives, which aims to preserve and document the special memories of the UAE, communicate the UAE’s important values to future generations, and introduce the entire world to the richness and heritage of Emirati and Gulf culture.

As another key commemorative feature of du’s National Day festivities, the company celebrated 48 years since the country’s inception on Thursday, 28th November, with a stirring ceremony at the du headquarters in Al Salam Tower, Dubai and DIAC. The celebration at Al Salam Tower included a special gallery set-up in collaboration with the National Archives, an Ayala performance, along with traditional UAE music and cuisine. 

Additionally, du’s network name will be changed to ‘UAE48Memories’ across the National Day holiday period to provide customers the chance to recall memories and the significant feats of the country. 

Join du and National Archives in this celebration by sharing your UAE stories and memories on various social media platforms using the hashtag #MyUAEMemories