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The Indian community in the Capital celebrated the 45th National Day with cultural events at the Indian Social and Cultural Centre.
Indian Media Abu Dhabi in association with Aqdar - an initiative of Khalifa Empowerment Programme for Students - held 'Salute UAE' event on Thursday night.
Abu Dhabi Chamber Of Commerce and Industry member on the board of directors Moza Saeed Ahmed Khalaf Al Otaiba in her inaugural speech hailed the contributions made by the Indian community.
"By next year, the Indian Social and Cultural Centre will be 50 years old. So, you are five years older than the UAE.
"The Late Shaikh Zayed had a big dream - to see his people happy. I wish he was still alive to see his dream is a success.
"The largest community that helped build this nation is Indian. We are similar in so many things and the relationship continues to be strong," the founding CEO of Al Otaiba Inmaa Group said.
There were traditional Emirati dances, qawwali and acrobatic dance. Also, 45 students from Emirates Future International School sang the national anthem of the UAE and India.
National Day saw many expats decorate their cars.
A doctor family from Baniyas - Nizar Abdul Rahman, wife Simi and three children - marked the day in a similar way.
Baniyas Ahalia Medical Centre dentist has decorated his Land Cruiser and Simi's Nissan Juke with symbols of national pride.
"I am celebrating the National Day ever since I landed in the UAE 15 years back. This is our second home and the National Day is an occasion to show our respect to the rulers of the land."
He is decorating his cars for last six years.
"We have the UAE flag, photos of rulers and other national symbols. By decorating my cars, I see this as a way to express my love for the nation. My children also love this country as their own."
Dental surgeon Simi said it is important to celebrate such days as it enlightens the young minds.
"I see every day as a National Day. There is so much to learn from this tolerant nation. So, we need to celebrate such occasions to let our next generation know about the history and rich heritage of the UAE."