Spirit of the Union

Compiled by Mishal Faraz, Year 11

The 2nd of December is a golden-lettered day for the United Arab Emirates. On this day, citizens and residents celebrate the spirit of the union, the founding fathers, and the benevolent rulers of this glorious nation. To commemorate this very special occasion, we have compiled the inspiring messages given by the rulers of the seven Emirates.

- His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan President of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Abu Dhabi

“Our homeland will always remain a giver and a peacemaker, and we will support local, national, and international initiatives aimed at improving government performance, delivering the future, fostering innovation, empowering local communities, combating poverty, advancing clean energy, and promoting tolerance.

- His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai

“On this day, we commemorate the bright memory of the Founding Fathers, led by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and his brothers, the Founders of the Nation, as well as their determination, wisdom, and vision that established the Union. Throughout this journey, our citizens, equipped with knowledge and science, have exerted all possible efforts to advance the nation and achieve its interests.

“On this day, we express our pride and appreciation for the UAE and its leadership’s achievements, which have made it a model of a comprehensive renaissance and a distinguished example of a prominent country respected by the entire world.

"On this national occasion, we affirm the Union’s principles that were established by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the Founding Fathers, which are being continued by future generation, under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai. Ours is a distinguished country, where everyone has the right to commemorate the past, just as we today witness unprecedented overall national achievements.”

“The late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan realised that progress and development are linked to unity and combining efforts to advance the nation. Therefore, he took a courageous decision, with support from his brothers, the Founding Rulers, to found the United Arab Emirates, and provided the country with all the components required to catapult the UAE on its fastpaced journey of development, thus, creating one of the most successful models of unity.

“Since its establishment 51 years ago, the UAE has logged significant accomplishments in its track record, enabling it to achieve a high stature regionally and globally. Powered by a set of values that include tolerance, coexistence and openness, the UAE has continued to enhance its global presence, by empowering the people to perform their roles optimally in pushing the country’s development forward.