Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed hailed the 'strength and cohesion" of the UAE as thousands of proud Emiratis went on the march in honour of the country's 48th National Day. The Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces paid tribute to tradition at the annual March of the Union on Tuesday. The event celebrates the rich legacy of Sheikh Zayed, the UAE's Founding Father, and his success in uniting the seven emirates to give birth to a nation. The march, organised by the Ministry of Presidential Affairs, drew huge crowds from all corners of the Emirates. Sheikh Mohamed said the country's history is a source of 'pride' for its people. “I witnessed today the March of the Union, in which the children of the UAE took part on the occasion of the country’s 48th National Day," wrote Sheikh Mohamed on Twitter. “The strength and cohesion of the sons of the UAE, and their connection to their heritage and the values of their [country’s] founders is our source of happiness and pride.” The march was held as part of the Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival, in Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi. People all over the country rejoiced on Monday as celebratory events were held to mark the milestone unification date. UAE leaders, led by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai and Abu Dhabi's Crown Prince, attended an enthralling theatrical production held at Zayed Sports City Stadium paying homage to Emirati heritage. Thousands turned out to attend spectacular firework displays and concerts to display their patriotic pride, with many more flag-waving residents gathering in the streets from Dubai to Sharjah and Abu Dhabi to Ras Al Khaimah to mark the occasion at impromptu gatherings.