The enduring legacy of Sheikh Zayed

Al Etihad

12-03-2025

2 Mar 2025 23:54
By Imam Mohammad Tawhidi*The UAE's Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan left an indelible mark on the world as a leader who harmonised Islamic principles with modern governance. His visionary leadership transformed the UAE into a thriving global hub of progress, tolerance, and prosperity. His legacy serves as a timeless model of how Islamic leadership can guide nations towards unity, development, and peaceful coexistence.At the core of Sheikh Zayed's leadership was a profound commitment to the values of Islam, that are justice, compassion, and equality. He believed that governance should reflect the teachings of the Holy Quran and the Sunnah, prioritising the wellbeing of all people. Sheikh Zayed once stated: 'To treat every person no matter what his creed or race as a special soul is a mark of Islam.'Sheikh Zayed's policies consistently reflected these values. His commitment to justice was evident in his efforts to mediate disputes among tribes and ensure equitable access to resources. His compassion was displayed in his focus on social welfare programmes, ensuring that Emiratis and expatriates alike had access to healthcare, education, and housing.The unification of the UAE in 1971 was Sheikh Zayed's crowning achievement. This monumental task required unparalleled leadership, diplomacy, and vision. Sheikh Zayed brought together the rulers of the seven emirates, establishing trust and collaboration among them. He saw unity not as a political convenience but as a moral imperative rooted in the Islamic principle of Shura (consultation).Under his leadership, the UAE's federal system was established, balancing local autonomy with national unity. This governance model has not only stood the test of time but has also allowed the UAE to emerge as one of the most stable and prosperous nations in the region.While deeply rooted in Islamic and Arab values, Sheikh Zayed recognised the importance of modernisation and global engagement. He believed that Islam encouraged education, innovation, and progress. Guided by this belief, he invested heavily in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. He prioritised the empowerment of women, asserting that Islam grants equal rights to men and women. His efforts led to significant advancements in women's education and participation in the workforce, setting a precedent for the broader Arab and Muslim world.Sheikh Zayed also embraced environmental stewardship, a value deeply ingrained in Islamic teachings. He launched ambitious projects to combat desertification, preserve water resources, and promote sustainable development, earning him the title 'Man of the Environment' and listed as a 'Champion of the Earth' by the United Nations.
A Champion of Tolerance and Coexistence Sheikh Zayed's governance model was defined by inclusivity and tolerance. In a region often marked by sectarian and ethnic divisions, he created a society that welcomed people of all backgrounds and faiths. His belief that Islam is a religion of peace and coexistence shaped the UAE's policies, making it a global exemplar of interfaith harmony.He established policies that ensured freedom of worship and provided land for the construction of churches, temples, and other places of worship. This commitment to coexistence has become a cornerstone of the UAE's identity, culminating in initiatives such as the Abrahamic Family House and the annual Global Conference on Human Fraternity.
Lessons From a Global Legacy Sheikh Zayed's influence extended far beyond the UAE. He was a tireless advocate for Arab and Islamic unity, consistently calling for peaceful resolutions to conflicts. He provided humanitarian aid to countless nations, embodying the Islamic principle of global solidarity. From building mosques and schools in impoverished countries to offering disaster relief, Sheikh Zayed's contributions to the global Muslim community remain unparalleled. In his foreign policy, Sheikh Zayed demonstrated pragmatism and a commitment to peace. He cultivated relationships with nations worldwide, emphasising dialogue and mutual respect. This approach has allowed the UAE to play a pivotal role on the global stage, acting as a bridge between East and West.Today, Sheikh Zayed's legacy remains critical in offering timeless lessons for leaders worldwide. He demonstrated that Islamic values are not at odds with modernisation but are, in fact, a foundation for progress. By prioritising justice, compassion, and unity, he created a governance model that balanced tradition with innovation.In a world grappling with polarisation and conflict, Sheikh Zayed's legacy is a reminder that leadership rooted in ethical principles can establish peace, development, and prosperity. His vision continues through his son, President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to inspire not only the people of the UAE but also leaders and nations striving to build a better future.It is this enduring legacy that fills me with pride to call the United Arab Emirates my home.
*The writer is an Islamic scholar, educator, and Vice President of the Global Imams Council (GIC)