WAM - The United Arab Emirates is marking Qatar’s National Day, observed annually on 18th December, highlighting the deep-rooted ties between the two Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

The UAE is hosting a series of events and illuminating iconic landmarks to mark the occasion, reflecting a shared history and fraternal relations.

UAE's President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has sent a message of congratulations to Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of Qatar, on this occasion.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai; and Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, dispatched similar messages to the Emir of Qatar and to Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar, on the occasion.

Qatar is currently reporting some of the world's fastest economic growth, driven by initiatives to bolster the private sector and the recent launch of its National Strategy for an Effective and Highly Productive Workforce 2024-2030. This labor roadmap aims to increase Qatari citizens' participation in the workforce and boost productivity.

In January 2024, Qatar also launched its Third National Development Strategy 2024-2030, which marks the final phase of the Qatar National Vision 2030 initiated in 2008 to transition the country into an advanced, diversified economy.