Etihad Museum to host ‘Protectors of the Nation: Sacrifice and Giving’ Exhibition

Under the management of Dubai Culture & Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), the Emirate’s dedicated entity for culture arts and heritage, the Etihad Museum has announced that it will host ‘Protectors of the Nation: Sacrifice and Giving’ exhibition, which will run for six months and commence during the 46th UAE National Day celebrations.

The exhibition managed by Dubai Museums Company charts the formation of the UAE Armed Forces, whose history parallels the unification of the UAE itself on 2ndDecember 1971 and the nation’s evolution ever since. It also explores the many skills required of a modern armed force, as well as the most essential ingredient – the men and women who are willing to dedicate themselves to a life serving their country and others. 

His Excellency Abdul Rahman bin Mohamed Al Owais, Cabinet Member, Minister of Health and Prevention, and Minister of State for Federal National Council Affairs, commented: “As the custodian of the museums sector in the Emirate of Dubai, it is a pleasure for Dubai Culture to organise and host this exhibition, which is a token of our appreciation for the UAE Armed Forces. This organisation plays an essential role in our nation, bravely watching over our upbringing, safeguarding our achievements, and protecting our borders. We extend our sincere thanks and gratitude to the Ministry of Defence, the General Command of the Armed Forces, the Military History Museum and the National Archives for their valuable contributions to the exhibition.”

His Excellency added: “Our brave soldiers make the greatest sacrifices for the sake of our country, as well as for others across the world. In spite of their perilous task, each one of them feels proud to answer the call of duty. In recognition of their courageous spirit and to commemorate those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, established Martyrs Day, which falls on 30th November every year on the date that the first Emirati martyr fell in the line of duty. It is an incredibly important occasion when we gather to remember our heroes and keep the UAE flag in both our minds and hearts.”

In this occasion, His Excellency Mohammed bin Ahmad Al Bawardi Al Falasi, Cabinet Member and Minister of State for Defence Affairs, commented: “We are delighted to participate in the military exhibition ‘Protectors of the Nation: Sacrifice and Giving’ hosted by the Etihad Museum, highlighting the efficiency and development of the armed forces of the UAE as well as the sacrificing and giving of the members of the armed forces since its establishment up until this moment.” 

His Excellency added: “Our armed forces added a lot of value and honourable moments throughout its history, and has been training and qualifying each militant from the beginning at the highest levels of academic and training educations, where the value of loyalty and commitment have also extended in the nation's integrity, and proved that loving your country is an inherited instinct in the nation and defending it is obligatory, and that its soil is the only love.”

His Excellency also praised Etihad Museum’s initiative for organizing a military exhibition under the theme ‘Protectors of the Nation: Sacrifice and Giving’ which will showcase the history of the UAE’s military between 1951 – 1976 by presenting military assets to confirm the importance of the role of museums in preserving the legacy of the military, and also strengthening the concept of heritage preservation and its importance in sustaining the participation of the community.

The exhibition highlights the UAE's leading efforts to consolidate and spread tolerance, brotherhood and positive values that enhance community happiness across the world, as demonstrated by the participation of the UAE Armed Forces in many global relief campaigns and peacekeeping initiatives. Thanks to this strategy, the UAE has become a humanitarian role model for the international community.

The new exhibition will support the museum's mission to serve as an educational hub about the history of the UAE, to tell the story of its establishment, and to celebrate the dedication and commitment of its Founding Fathers through exhibitions, interactive programmes and educational initiatives.

Dubai Culture aims to enhance Dubai’s cultural scene and draw attention to the Emirate’s rich heritage with a variety of initiatives that take place throughout the year. The Authority’s mandate is to build bridges of constructive dialogue between different civilisations and cultures through enriching initiatives that benefit the Emirate’s citizens, residents and visitors.

The Etihad Museum tells the story of one of the most significant moments in the UAE’s timeline – the birth of the nation with the 1971 Union Agreement – through the eyes of the Founding Fathers. The dynamic, 21st century museum was established to serve as an intimate, informative and enjoyable insight into the events that surrounded this historic event, and has been designed to offer a holistic experience from start to finish, leading visitors on a memorable journey with interactive items to be found at every step.