Commemoration Day in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), also known as Martyrs' Day, honors the Emirati soldiers and civilians who have sacrificed their lives in service to the nation, whether in military, humanitarian, or civil roles.

When is Commemoration Day?

Commemoration Day is observed on November 30 each year.

The following is the list of Commemoration Day from 2020 to 2049.

The History of Commemoration Day?

Declared in 2015 by the late President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Commemoration Day was established as a national tribute to Emiratis who died serving their country.

The first martyr officially recognized is Salem Suhail bin Khamis Al Dahmani, who died on November 30, 1971, while defending Greater Tunb Island against Iranian forces, just two days before the UAE's official unification on December 2.

His sacrifice became the symbolic foundation for the day.

Commemoration Day honors members of the Armed Forces who died in battle or peacekeeping missions (e.g., in Yemen), police officers and civil defense personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty, diplomats, aid workers, and volunteers who died during humanitarian missions abroad and civilians who died while protecting or representing the UAE.

While November 30 remains the formal date, public ceremonies typically occur on December 1, just ahead of UAE National Day on December 2.