Latest news with #Zayed
Gulf Today
4 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Today
Leaders pledge to reinforce founding fathers' policies
As the UAE marks the first anniversary of the "Union Pledge Day' on 18th July, the nation reflects on the pivotal moments that led to its unification, recalling the enduring legacy of the founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan and his brothers, the Rulers, whose historic declaration in 1971 laid the foundations for the federation. The day is one of the most important days in the history of the UAE, as the declaration of the Union and the UAE Constitution were signed, and its name was announced, with the solid foundation for its establishment laid on 2nd December. Union Pledge Day was designated as a national occasion by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan to reaffirm loyalty to the homeland and celebrate the country's continued development. The day aims to strengthen national identity and raise public awareness of the foundational steps that propelled the UAE to its current status as a regional and global leader. The occasion highlights the vision and sacrifices of the founding fathers, whose legacy continues to shape the UAE's trajectory. In his first address to the nation as President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed said, "Today, we see our nation ranked among the most advanced nations globally, as well as being one of the best places to live and work. This was the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed and our founding fathers, and we thank God for this blessing. We will continue to follow their wise approach, drawing inspiration from their unfaltering leadership. Our history, identity, and cultural heritage will form an essential part of our plans for the future." His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, tweeted, "The Union Pledge Day is a day when the founders agreed on the document and constitution of the union, when hearts harmonised with the idea of union and when energies and resources combined to build the greatest concept of unity witnessed by our contemporary Arab world. Today, we pledge to carry on with the same spirit and determination and with global ambitions for the future." Union Pledge Day also serves to honour the UAE's achievements in state-building and unity, forged amid complex regional dynamics. The founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed, led the country through the formation of the Arab world's first federal state and launched one of the region's largest development drives. Following Sheikh Zayed's leadership, the late Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan led the empowerment phase (2004-2022), strengthening institutions, promoting education, and advancing citizen participation in national development. Under his leadership, the UAE achieved record growth across economic, service, humanitarian, infrastructure, renewable energy and space exploration sectors. The country became the second-largest economy in the Arab world and the first Arab and Muslim nation to reach Mars. Sheikh Khalifa's forward-looking strategies included the Principles of the 50, UAE Vision 2021, the UAE Strategy for Government Services (2021-2025), UAE National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence, the National Space Strategy 2030, and the UAE's Net Zero 2050 Strategy. Since 2022, under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE has continued to achieve major milestones across economic, social, political and development domains. The country continues to rank highly in regional and global competitiveness indices. Economic diversification has gained momentum, with significant growth in tourism, trade, financial services, industry, real estate, telecoms and technology. The Central Bank of the UAE expects real GDP to expand by 4.4 per cent in 2025, fuelled by rising foreign investment and robust non-oil sectors. In Q1 2025, non-oil foreign trade reached AED835 billion, with exports hitting a record AED177.3 billion in the first three months of 2025. Over the past five decades, the UAE economy has witnessed remarkable growth across key sectors, with the country's GDP rising from AED58.3 billion in 1975 to AED17 trillion in 2024. During the same period, foreign trade surged from AED11.5 billion to AED5.23 trillion. In January, President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed declared 2025 the "Year of Community,' aimed at strengthening intergenerational ties and social cohesion. The government allocated AED27.9 billion – 39 per cent of the 2025 federal budget – to social development, underscoring its commitment to citizen welfare and cultural preservation. Internationally, the UAE remains a key partner in peacebuilding and humanitarian efforts. Guided by values of tolerance and coexistence, the country actively supports global stability and justice. Since its founding, the UAE has provided AED368 billion in foreign aid, benefiting more than one billion people worldwide across humanitarian and development sectors. WAM/Gulf Today
Gulf Today
5 days ago
- Politics
- Gulf Today
On Union Pledge Day, UAE celebrates journey from federation to global leadership
As the UAE marks the first anniversary of the 'Union Pledge Day' on 18th July, the nation reflects on the pivotal moments that led to its unification, recalling the enduring legacy of the founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan and his brothers, the Rulers, whose historic declaration in 1971 laid the foundations for the federation. The day is one of the most important days in the history of the UAE, as the declaration of the Union and the UAE Constitution were signed, and its name was announced, with the solid foundation for its establishment laid on 2nd December. Union Pledge Day was designated as a national occasion by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan to reaffirm loyalty to the homeland and celebrate the country's continued development. The day aims to strengthen national identity and raise public awareness of the foundational steps that propelled the UAE to its current status as a regional and global leader. The occasion highlights the vision and sacrifices of the founding fathers, whose legacy continues to shape the UAE's trajectory. In his first address to the nation as President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed said, 'Today, we see our nation ranked among the most advanced nations globally, as well as being one of the best places to live and work. This was the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed and our founding fathers, and we thank God for this blessing. We will continue to follow their wise approach, drawing inspiration from their unfaltering leadership. Our history, identity, and cultural heritage will form an essential part of our plans for the future." Union Pledge Day also serves to honour the UAE's achievements in state-building and unity, forged amid complex regional dynamics. The founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed, led the country through the formation of the Arab world's first federal state and launched one of the region's largest development drives. Following Sheikh Zayed's leadership, the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan led the empowerment phase (2004–2022), strengthening institutions, promoting education, and advancing citizen participation in national development. Under his leadership, the UAE achieved record growth across economic, service, humanitarian, infrastructure, renewable energy and space exploration sectors. The country became the second-largest economy in the Arab world and the first Arab and Muslim nation to reach Mars. Sheikh Khalifa's forward-looking strategies included the Principles of the 50, UAE Vision 2021, the UAE Strategy for Government Services (2021–2025), UAE National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence, the National Space Strategy 2030, and the UAE's Net Zero 2050 Strategy. Since 2022, under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE has continued to achieve major milestones across economic, social, political and development domains. The country continues to rank highly in regional and global competitiveness indices. Economic diversification has gained momentum, with significant growth in tourism, trade, financial services, industry, real estate, telecoms and technology. The Central Bank of the UAE expects real GDP to expand by 4.4 percent in 2025, fuelled by rising foreign investment and robust non-oil sectors. In Q1 2025, non-oil foreign trade reached Dhs835 billion, with exports hitting a record Dhs177.3 billion in the first three months of 2025. Over the past five decades, the UAE economy has witnessed remarkable growth across key sectors, with the country's GDP rising from Dhs58.3 billion in 1975 to Dhs17 trillion in 2024. During the same period, foreign trade surged from Dhs11.5 billion to Dhs5.23 trillion. In January, President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed declared 2025 the 'Year of Community,' aimed at strengthening intergenerational ties and social cohesion. The government allocated Dhs27.9 billion—39 percent of the 2025 federal budget—to social development, underscoring its commitment to citizen welfare and cultural preservation. Internationally, the UAE remains a key partner in peacebuilding and humanitarian efforts. Guided by values of tolerance and coexistence, the country actively supports global stability and justice. Since its founding, the UAE has provided Dhs368 billion in foreign aid, benefiting more than one billion people worldwide across humanitarian and development sectors.
Time of India
6 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
UAE Union Pledge Day explained: What happened to the Emirates in 1971
President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan officially designated Union Pledge Day to honour the historic 1971 signing of the UAE Union/ Image: WAM TL;DR Union Pledge Day marks the 1971 signing that set the UAE 's unification in motion. It honours the vision and leadership of the founding fathers, especially Sheikh Zayed . It reflects the UAE's progress in areas like space, sustainability, and economic innovation. It emphasizes ongoing investment in social development, education, and quality of life. A Day of National Reflection and Unity As the United Arab Emirates observes the first anniversary of Union Pledge Day on July 18, the nation pauses to honour a historic turning point, when, exactly 54 years ago, the founding fathers came together to sign the declaration of the Union and the UAE Constitution. This monumental act set the stage for the country's unification and the emergence of the UAE as a modern and visionary state. Union Pledge Day was officially designated by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan as a national occasion to reaffirm loyalty to the homeland, honour the legacy of the founding fathers, and celebrate the UAE's ongoing development. The day serves as a moment of reflection, reminding citizens and residents alike of the sacrifices and foresight that have shaped the nation's identity, values, and direction. The event not only celebrates the birth of a country, but also highlights its rise as a regional and global leader, built on a foundation of unity, vision, and resilience. Founding Vision and the Road to Union The journey to the UAE's unification culminated in a decisive moment on 18 July, 1971, when the rulers of the Emirates signed the declaration of the Union and the UAE Constitution. This pivotal act laid the legal and structural groundwork for a unified nation, and set in motion the formation of the Arab world's first federal state, officially established on 2 December that same year. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Is it legal? How to get Internet without paying a subscription? Techno Mag Learn More Undo This day remains the country's National Day, while Union Pledge Day now commemorates the critical moment when the idea of the union became a committed reality. At the heart of this achievement was the visionary leadership of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, whose unwavering belief in unity, consensus, and shared purpose brought the Emirates together. Alongside the founding rulers, Sheikh Zayed championed a bold model for national development, rooted in heritage, guided by tolerance, and focused on building a prosperous future for generations to come. Today, Union Pledge Day honours not only the moment the Union was pledged, but the values, sacrifices, and foresight that continue to shape the UAE's identity and direction. The Empowerment Phase: Leadership of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed (2004–2022) Following Sheikh Zayed's passing, the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan assumed leadership and ushered in a new chapter in the UAE's growth, referred to as the 'empowerment phase.' His presidency from 2004 to 2022 saw the strengthening of institutions, promotion of education, and advancement of civic participation. During this period, the UAE achieved landmark successes in multiple sectors: Economic and Infrastructure Growth Service Expansion Humanitarian Outreach Renewable Energy Development Space Exploration One of the most symbolic achievements of this era was the UAE becoming the first Arab and Muslim country to reach Mars, through the successful launch and orbit of the Hope Probe. Sheikh Khalifa's administration also laid out critical strategic frameworks that have shaped national development: The Principles of the 50 UAE Vision 2021 UAE Strategy for Government Services (2021–2025) UAE National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence National Space Strategy 2030 UAE Net Zero 2050 Strategy These initiatives focused on future-readiness, sustainability, innovation, and inclusive growth. Continued Growth Under Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed (Since 2022) Since assuming the presidency in 2022, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has led the UAE into a new era of consolidation and expansion, with continued progress across economic, social, and political fronts. In his first address to the nation, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed reaffirmed the enduring relevance of the founding fathers' vision. As reported by WAM, the Emirates News Agency, he stated: 'Today, we see our nation ranked among the most advanced nations globally, as well as being one of the best places to live and work. This was the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed and our founding fathers, and we thank God for this blessing. We will continue to follow their wise approach, drawing inspiration from their unfaltering leadership. Our history, identity, and cultural heritage will form an essential part of our plans for the future.' This commitment has translated into robust economic diversification and rising global competitiveness. Key developments under Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed's leadership include: Growth in tourism, trade, financial services, industry, real estate, telecom, and technology Continued rise in foreign investment The UAE Central Bank projects a 4.4% real GDP growth in 2025, largely driven by the non-oil economy In Q1 2025, non-oil foreign trade reached AED835 billion, with exports at a record AED177.3 billion Decades of Economic Transformation Over the past five decades, the UAE has undergone one of the most remarkable economic transformations in the region. From its early years to its current global stature, the numbers speak volumes: GDP rose from AED58.3 billion in 1975 to AED17 trillion in 2024 Foreign trade increased from AED11.5 billion to AED5.23 trillion during the same period This growth has not only elevated living standards within the country but also positioned the UAE as a key player in the global economy. Social Development and Community Focus in 2025 In January, President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed declared 2025 as the 'Year of Community,' with the goal of strengthening intergenerational ties and reinforcing social cohesion. To support these efforts, the UAE government allocated AED27.9 billion to social development, representing 39 percent of the 2025 federal budget. This allocation underscores the country's enduring commitment to citizen welfare, cultural preservation, and inclusive societal progress. UAE's Global Humanitarian Role Beyond its borders, the UAE continues to play a vital role in humanitarian aid, peacebuilding, and international cooperation. These efforts are deeply rooted in the nation's founding values of tolerance, coexistence, and justice. Since its establishment, the UAE has provided an estimated AED368 billion in foreign aid, reaching more than one billion people worldwide across various humanitarian and development sectors. This ongoing international engagement reflects the UAE's commitment to global stability and its identity as a responsible and compassionate global actor. FAQs: Q. What is Union Pledge Day? Union Pledge Day marks the 1971 signing of the declaration that led to the UAE's unification. Q. When is Union Pledge Day celebrated? It is observed annually on July 18. Q. How is Union Pledge Day different from National Day? Union Pledge Day commemorates the decision to unite, while National Day (December 2) marks the formal establishment of the UAE. Q. Why is Union Pledge Day important? It honours the founding leaders' vision and reflects on the UAE's journey of growth and development.
Al Etihad
7 days ago
- Politics
- Al Etihad
Union Pledge Day: UAE citizens reflect on Founding Fathers' legacy, national values
17 July 2025 22:00 AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)Union Pledge Day, marked annually on July 18, is a moment to reflect on and cherish the national values instilled by the Founding Fathers - values that bind the nation and its people on their journey of progress and development, according to UAE marks Union Pledge Day on Friday, a national occasion that commemorates the historic meeting held on July 18, 1971, when the country's Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, along with the Rulers of the Emirates, signed the Declaration of the Union, approved the UAE Constitution, and announced the official name of the country: the United Arab historic meeting marked a milestone in establishing a federation of emirates on December 2, the designation of July 18 as Union Pledge Day, President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan said this significant date is an occasion to commemorate the UAE's blessed journey, draw lessons and morals for the present and future, and renew the nation's pledge to God Almighty and the people of the UAE to preserve unity and Pledge Day serves not only as a commemoration of a historic milestone but also as a national reminder of the values and principles instilled by the late Sheikh Zayed, and his brothers the Rulers - values of unity, leadership, and national solidarity that continue to guide the UAE's development today. The day also aims to educate and inspire younger generations about the nation's rich history and the sacrifices made to achieve unity. Speaking to Aletihad , citizens said the national occasion is a time to reaffirm the pledge of loyalty to the nation and renew their commitment to national values. Adnan Alajmi, an Emirati citizen, said, 'To me, this day is where we remember how everything started and who we are, and why we must remember this day. To celebrate our goals being achieved and to stay connected with one another, because we are stronger together than we are apart.'He added that the Founding Fathers' legacy should continue to be honoured by staying rooted in tradition while embracing innovation and global Ahmed Al Masoudi, a UAE citizen, the national occasion is more than a historical date - 'it's a living symbol of loyalty to the nation and a reaffirmation of our commitment to its values'.'Union Pledge Day is a significant moment that reminds me of the deep sense of unity, pride, and purpose that binds the people of the UAE.'He said the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed is still evident in the UAE's leadership in fields like AI, sustainability, and humanitarian efforts the same spirit, Emirati citizen Zayed Al Bariki said, 'Union Pledge Day is a powerful reminder of the unity and strength that forms the foundation of the UAE. It's a day to reflect on our shared identity and renew our commitment to the nation's growth and values.' He emphasised that the principles established by the Founding Fathers continue to shape the nation's trajectory, balancing tradition with a drive for innovation and excellence.
What's On
15-07-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
In his words: Great quotes from HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum
HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, is celebrating his 76th birthday on Tuesday, July 15. Besides leading the city, the Ruler of Dubai is a poet and has a way with words, which clearly shows in his speeches, and every so often, we also get to see it in his words on his official social media posts. To celebrate, we are sharing some of the greatest quotes by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum On Sheikh Zayed Sheikh Zayed | Photo credit: Zayed National Museum 'Sheikh Zayed was not one to believe in limitations; this is one of the traits of a true leader.' 'Generous by nature and compassionate at heart, such is Sheikh Khalifa.' 'Sheikh Zayed was generous with his time and love, and, in return, people loved him irrespective of their differences.' *Zayed National Museum in Abu Dhabi to open in December 2025* On Arab history 'Arab civilization once played a great role in contributing to human knowledge, and will play that role again.' On 'luck' (PS. There is no such thing as luck in Sheikh Mohammed's vocabulary…) 'The closest thing to luck we have ever had is the fighting spirit and love of a challenge that runs in our blood.' 'They say that luck smiled at Dubai; I say that they want to undermine and devalue your efforts, they attribute your success to luck.' 'Positive people know that luck does not make them, they make their luck.' On leadership HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai 'A great leader creates more great leaders and does not reduce the institution to a single person.' 'The fastest way to happiness is by instilling happiness in the hearts of others.' 'There is no true leader who does not thank the people, and any leader who does not thank their team is not worthy of his or her position.' 'The positive leader is the one who can tame the lion inside him or herself, be humble before people, and always attribute success to their team.' 'The greatest accomplishment of leadership is not measured in monetary targets, but in the positive impact the lader has on his or her people.' On tolerance 'Tolerance increases strength and resilience and helps establish a global cohesive society.' 'Tolerance is no catchphrase, but a quality we must cherish and practice. It must be woven into the fabric of our society to safeguard our future and maintain the progress we have made.' 'What makes us proud of our United Arab Emirates is not the height of our buildings, the breadth of our streets, or the magnitude of our shopping malls, but rather the openness and tolerance of our nation.' On technology and Artificial Intelligence 'Technology is the rapid gateway to the future.' Speaking on the introduction of AI as a subject in school, 'Our responsibility is to equip our children for a time unlike ours, with conditions different from ours, and with new skills and capabilities that ensure the continued momentum of development and progress in our nation for decades to come.' On the future of Dubai 'Over the past 50 years, we started from the desert of our land to the desert of Mars. Our dreams will be even bigger for the next 50 years.' 'Our vision is clear, our road is paved, and the clock is ticking. There is no time for hesitation or half-baked goals or solutions. Development is an ongoing process, and the race for excellence has no finish line.' 'An Arab official once asked me about the target the UAE wanted to achieve from launching the first Arab probe to Mars. I told him: we want to send a message of hope to 350 million Arabs that we are capable of reclaiming our future.' 'We may not live for hundreds of years, but the products of our creativity can leave a legacy long after we are gone.' 'We will continue without halt or rest, for halting is a waste of time.' On dreaming big 'Impossible is a word used by some people who fear to dream big.' 'They say the sky is the limit for ambition. We say: the sky is only the beginning.' 'Does running water stop when it reaches a rock? Of course not. It turns either left or right and continues on its way. Likewise, a positive person is confident that no challenge will stand in the way of achieving his or her goal.' 'We are no less than number one. Whoever convinces himself that he is not worthy of first position has doomed himself to failure from the very beginning.' 'We do not want an airport for Dubai; we want Dubai to be an airport for the world.' Happy Birthday, Sheikh Mohammed! – For many more thoughts and ideas from HH Sheikh Mohammed, pick up Flashes of Wisdom , which is in both Arabic and English . Available in most major bookshops now and on for Dhs65.
