As the year 2025 drew to a close, we at CSS Headquarters found many joyful moments to come together and celebrate. This season brought with it two very special occasions – Christmas and Eid Al Etihad, the UAE’s National Day – both marked by warmth, pride, and a powerful sense of togetherness. What took place in our office was more than just festive events; it was a heartfelt celebration of unity, belonging, and the vibrant diversity that defines Team CSS.
Honouring Eid Al Etihad: A Celebration of Unity and Heritage
Our National Day celebrations began by paying tribute to the true spirit of Eid Al Etihad, which commemorates the historic union of the seven emirates on 2 December 1971 to form the United Arab Emirates. This meaningful occasion stands as a reminder of a resilient past, a flourishing present, and an inspiring future. The word Etihad, meaning “union,” beautifully reflects the strength, heritage, and pride at the heart of the nation. At CSS, this message resonated strongly as we reflected on the importance of standing united, supporting one another, and nurturing strong bonds that continue to define us as a community.
The office came alive with festive colours, traditional UAE attire, and national-themed outfits, adding vibrancy and charm throughout the workplace. Our work zones were creatively decorated using official Eid Al Etihad colours, thoughtfully designed with upcycled and recycled materials to showcase our commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. Colleagues enjoyed traditional Emirati dishes and local sweets, experiencing the authentic flavours of culture and heritage. A specially curated playlist of Emirati songs filled the office, celebrating the nation’s achievements, cultural richness, and proud legacy.
Christmas at CSS: Festive Cheer, Togetherness, and Joy
December also brought with it the magical spirit of Christmas, which we celebrated once again with great joy and enthusiasm. The office was transformed into a festive wonderland, glowing with sparkling lights, twinkling stars, a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, and a nativity crib that added warmth and charm to every corner. Laughter echoed through the halls as colleagues eagerly participated in interactive games, making the celebration lively, memorable, and filled with festive cheer.
The Christmas tree sparkled with colourful gifts, spreading the joy of giving and receiving and creating moments of happiness and delight for everyone. A grand festive spread brought colleagues together around the table, strengthening connections through shared meals and conversations. The scrumptious feast included flavourful biryani, a variety of meat dishes, Christmas desserts, traditional sweets, and rich Christmas cake. Warm toasts, cheerful stories, and shared laughter filled the air, building stronger friendships and lasting memories.
Beyond the decorations, music, and food, the true success of these celebrations lay in the strong sense of community they inspired. By embracing different cultures, sharing traditions, and celebrating side by side, we strengthened the sense of belonging that defines life at CSS. It was a beautiful reminder that when we celebrate together, we grow together – creating a workplace filled with joy, respect, inclusion, and meaningful connections.