Some dates are etched into the collective memory of the people of the UAE — dates that reflect the journey of the nation and highlight milestones that shaped its present and continue to guide its future. Among the most significant is August 6, 1966, the day the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may he rest in peace, assumed leadership of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.
“Our Father Zayed” is not simply a name recorded in history books; he is a lasting presence in the hearts of every Emirati — a symbol of leadership, wisdom, and vision. He was the leader who planted the seeds of the Union in a land that once seemed barren, nurturing it with justice and compassion until it blossomed into a modern state admired worldwide.
This day marks a turning point in the UAE’s journey — the beginning of a transformative path that eventually led to the formation of the United Arab Emirates. Through his visionary leadership, Sheikh Zayed laid the foundational blocks that turned a dream into a reality: a united nation built on cooperation, development, and shared destiny.
From Challenge to Transformation
When Sheikh Zayed took the helm in 1966, Abu Dhabi faced severe economic and social challenges, limited resources, and minimal infrastructure. Yet, from his very first day, he launched extensive development projects, spanning housing, health, education, and infrastructure. These efforts rapidly transformed Abu Dhabi into a modern, thriving city.
Skyscrapers rose where sand once stretched endlessly. Gardens and parks flourished across the landscape. Sheikh Zayed redirected national wealth toward improving the lives of his people — ordering the construction of schools, hospitals, roads, and homes. To him, the true wealth of the nation was its people.
Human Development as a National Priority
He firmly believed that building the nation must begin with building the human being — and that education was the key to this vision. He worked tirelessly to ensure every Emirati had access to education, seeing youth as the nation’s most valuable asset. His leadership made it possible for generations to dream, learn, and build a brighter future.
A Model of Wise and Humble Leadership
Sheikh Zayed’s leadership was marked by wisdom, vision, and a strong sense of justice. He always prioritized the needs of the nation and its people. His humility was evident in his daily interactions — he remained close to his citizens, listened to their concerns, and kept his majlis open to all. His governance style reflected transparency, compassion, and inclusion.
He laid the foundations of a strong state by building institutions on firm and enduring principles. He worked to ensure social justice and equality, providing equal opportunities to all citizens. His leadership embraced tolerance, promoted dialogue, and rejected extremism — establishing the UAE as a model for peaceful coexistence and cultural diversity.
The Dream of Unity
From his earliest days as Ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed carried a dream in his heart — the unification of the Emirates. He knew that only through unity could the region face its challenges and secure a better future for its people. Together with the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai, he initiated the first steps toward the Union in February 1968.
Their agreement laid the groundwork for a historic achievement — the establishment of the United Arab Emirates on December 2, 1971. Sheikh Zayed became the first President of the UAE, leading it with strength and humility into a new era of development, pride, and national dignity.
A Legacy That Transcends Generations
The late Sheikh Zayed left behind a profound legacy — one that continues to shape the UAE’s journey. August 6 is more than a date on the calendar; it is the anniversary of a leader’s rise whose vision forever altered the course of the region’s history.
He established the principles of good governance and sustainable development, and instilled values of unity, loyalty, and national identity. His impact went beyond national borders, with positions and policies that supported development and peace across the Arab and Islamic worlds and beyond.
The Path Continues
Today, more than five decades since that pivotal day, the UAE continues to move forward on the path laid by Sheikh Zayed, under the wise leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE. Drawing from Sheikh Zayed’s values and wisdom, the nation continues its journey as a global model for development, peace, and human prosperity.
Sheikh Zayed sowed the seeds of unity in a barren land and watered it with justice and compassion, until it bore fruit — a nation that stands tall and proud among the nations of the world.
