American University of Sharjah (AUS) began its celebrations to commemorate UAE National Day with the opening ceremony of the Emirati Heritage Village at the university's Main Plaza yesterday, November 24, 2015, marking the 44th year of the country's formation.

The special event was inaugurated by His Excellency Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Bin Sultan Al Qassimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah. Also in attendance were Sheikh Salem Bin Abdulrahman Al Qassimi, Chairman of the Ruler's Office; Sheikh Mohammad Bin Humaid Al Qassimi, Director of the Statistics and Social Development Department; Sheikh Saoud Bin Sultan Bin Mohammad Bin Sultan Al Qassimi; Rashid Ahmad Bin Al Sheikh, Chairman of the Amiri Court; Dr. Björn Kjerfve, Chancellor of AUS; Kevin Mitchell, Interim Provost; Dr. Moza Al Shehhi, Dean of Students; as well as other university officials.

The Heritage Village consisted of different booths that sold local cuisine, ranging from desserts to popular UAE dishes, and included a display of traditional items, perfumes and jewelry. It also featured various activities representing Emirati culture and heritage, including on-stage performances, traditional dances, and song performances. In addition, the Plaza was decorated with Emirati flags and light beams representing the colors of the UAE flag while Emirati songs played in the background. The event was organized by the Emirati Cultural Club and the Office of Student Affairs (OSA).

Dr. Al Shehhi expressed her satisfaction with the event and said: "As we celebrate our 44th National Day, I congratulate the people of the UAE and most especially our great leaders for the progress and development seen throughout the country as a result of their wise leadership. I am very grateful and proud of the Emirati Cultural Club for keeping up with the tradition of celebrating this auspicious occasion on campus that uplifts and celebrates our spirit of patriotism, unity and peace. Our students did a great job this year in bringing together various sectors of the community to support this event and to join in the celebration."

"The purpose of this celebration is to express our patriotism towards our country, the UAE, and to celebrate the 44th UAE National Day with the 99 different nationalities present at AUS," said Mohammed Kalbani, President of the Emirati Cultural Club.

Mariam Humaid, a second year student majoring in visual communication said: "The event is a great way to connect with Emirati culture. There are a lot of activities taking place, and we are enjoying our time here!"