EU Delegation Celebrates Europe Day 2026 in Abu Dhabi
The European Union Delegation to the United Arab Emirates celebrated Europe Day 2026 with a special reception in Abu Dhabi, bringing together Emirati officials, diplomats, and friends of the European Union to mark European unity and the growing partnership between the EU and the United Arab Emirates.
Among the distinguished guests were the Guest of Honour His Excellency Faisal Eissa Lutfi, Assistant Undersecretary for Consular Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, His Excellency Maqsoud Kruse, Envoy of the Minister of Foreign Affairs for Countering Extremism and Terrorism and Chairman of the International Steering Board of Hedayah, and His Excellency Rashid bin Markhan, Secretary General of the UAE Falcons Federation and Secretary General of the International Federation for Falconry Sports and Racing; alongside senior officials and ambassadors from Arab and foreign diplomatic missions.
In her remarks, Her Excellency Lucie Berger, EU Ambassador to the UAE, highlighted the strength of EU–UAE relations, particularly in challenging times, underlining shared interests and expanding cooperation across a wide range of sectors. She stated:
“A new and stronger UAE is emerging. Dear Emirati friends, your resilience has once again been tested, and you have shown a remarkable capacity to overcome and remain strong in the face of the Iranian attacks. You are not alone. As we stand with Ukraine, we stand with the UAE.”
The evening also celebrated youth engagement and future-oriented dialogue, as the EU Delegation welcomed UAE university students whose essays were recognised in the 2026 EU-UAE Essay Competition. Now in its second edition, the initiative invites students to share their visions for the future of EU-UAE relations, showcasing the creativity, ambition, and insight of young Emiratis.
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Guests were treated to an evening of cultural exchange through music, featuring a performance of the UAE and EU anthems on the distinctive sound of the oud by Khaled Badrieh, alongside musical pieces inspired by both European and Emirati traditions. The celebration also featured a special performance by renowned Emirati artist DJ Bliss, who brought a vibrant energy to the occasion.
Celebrated annually on 9 May, Europe Day marks the founding moment of the European Union and reflects the values of peace, unity, and cooperation that continue to guide Europe’s engagement with partners around the world.
