Abu Dhabi, Jan 26 (IANS): Indian expatriates celebrated the country's 68th Republic Day at the Indian Embassy here on Thursday morning.

The embassy's Charge d' Affaires, Pavan Kumar Rai, hoisted the Indian national flag and read out President Pranab Mukherjee's message to the nation, reported Gulf News.

The Indian Consulate in Dubai also held a flag-hoisting ceremony by Consul General Anurag Bhushan.

School children sang patriotic songs at various events attended by Indians from all walks of life. About 800 members of the community participated in the celebrations.

The Consul General thanked the Indian community "for the patriotism and enthusiasm shown by them on this day, when we gave to ourselves the Constitution in 1950 securing justice, liberty, equality and gender, economic equity, dignity of the individual, and unity and integrity of the nation."

Bhushan added: "This day is very special and significant for Indians as we are having His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, as our Chief Guest for the celebrations in India."

"Also, as a befitting gesture for this historic visit, the lighting of the Burj Khalifa at prime timings yesterday (Wednesday) and today (Thursday) by the UAE government is highly valued by us," he further said.

The tricolour was also hoisted at the grounds of The Indian High School in Dubai where thousands of students, teachers, parents and community members took part in the celebrations.

Around 4,000 students presented colourful performances depicting the rich culture and tradition of India.