Etihad Airways Celebrates UAE's 52nd Union Day with Remarkable Musical Performance by Talented Staff
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, proudly commemorates the UAE’s 52nd Union Day with a captivating musical tribute.
In a cinematic video, Etihad showcases the diverse talents of its personnel, including pilots, engineers, and cabin crew, as they skillfully perform the UAE national anthem on various musical instruments. The filming captures these skilled individuals at iconic locations, from the Etihad Airways Head Office to the iconic Terminal A at Abu Dhabi International Airport.
The instrumental performance showcases a talented ensemble featuring Pilot Hamad Altaee on the piano; Marlon Leiva, a cabin crew member, displaying his drumming skills; Engineer Samia Mahfoudh skillfully playing the Korg; Pilot Khalifa Almansoori playing the Bagpipes; Joseph Michael, a cabin crew member, on the Bass Guitar; Osama Elmaghreby, another cabin crew member, playing the Violin, and Sepideh Jalilvand, a cabin manager, presenting her musical skills on the Hand Pan.
Dr Nadia Bastaki, Chief People and Corporate Affairs Officer for Etihad Airways, said: ” In celebrating UAE’s 52nd Union Day, our dedicated people at Etihad exemplify the spirit of unity and talent. Their remarkable instrumental performance not only pays homage to our rich Emirati identity but also reflects the harmony that defines our airline. It is a testament to the diverse skills and shared commitment of our team, making this occasion truly special for our passengers and reinforcing Etihad’s role as a symbol of national pride.”
To honour the rich heritage of the UAE, the “Al-Sadu” theme permeates various touchpoints throughout the travel experience, from the Etihad lounges at Terminal A in Abu Dhabi International Airport to selected Etihad flights. Travellers passing through the recently inaugurated three-floor Etihad lounge will be greeted with chocolates adorned with “Al-Sadu” toppers, along with access to a diverse range of facilities and dining options, ensuring a comfortable and convenient travel experience.
“Al-Sadu” is a traditional Emirati weaving technique, distinguished by its vibrant colours and geometric patterns. This craft, passed down through generations, stands as a symbol of the UAE’s rich heritage.
On board flights on 2 December, Etihad will distribute an exclusive and uniquely designed bookmark inspired by the “Al-Sadu” craft to all guests across all cabins on inbound and outbound flights. This authentic collectible serves as a giveaway that beautifully represents Emirati culture.
For Etihad guests travelling in December, a special E-BOX offering of in-flight entertainment content awaits, featuring compelling stories about the UAE. “Qesat Makan,” produced by Abu Dhabi TV, highlights historic areas such as Dalma Island and the Meliha area. Additionally, a selection of videos from ‘Abu Dhabi Stories,’ a platform that captures the essence of Abu Dhabi by the Abu Dhabi Media Office, includes “Faces from Abu Dhabi,” showcasing inspiring experiences from members of Abu Dhabi’s community, and the “Spotlight” series, which highlights Abu Dhabi’s landmarks.
Etihad Airways has expanded its operations and market presence this year by adding 12 new destinations. The airline’s future plans aim to attract millions of travellers to the UAE, promising substantial economic growth.
