One of the most prominent and leading nations among the GCC nations, the United Arab Emirates is excelling in every sector, be it tourism, business, or technological innovation.
This developed nation consists of seven emirates and is renowned worldwide for its high-income developing market economy, top-notch infrastructure, extravagant events, etc. However, have you ever wanted to know who and how is the current ruler of the Emirates?
In this article, we’ll discuss everything about the UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan that will allow you to understand the popularity of this nation as a global business and tourism hub.
Who is UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed?
The current ruler of UAE, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed is the third son of the founding father. The 16th crown prince of Abu Dhabi is the current president of this prominent GCC nation and was born on March 11, 1961. He has served as the crown prince of UAE’s capital city for 18 years from 2004 to 2022. Since 2004, his Highness has been a reputed Abu Dhabi Executive Council member. Before achieving these designations, he served as Chief of Staff and Deputy Supreme Commander of UAE Armed Forces.
Early Life and Education
His Highness spent a significant time of his early life in the UAE’s capital city, which was a time of significant change when his father became the ruler of Abu Dhabi in 1966, and the Emirates was formed in 1971. Additionally, he also witnessed the beginning of oil exportation from the nation’s capital city in 1962. His father was appointed as the president of the newly formed nation following the same year it was formed.
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed attended schools in Al Ain and Abu Dhabi and received private tuition from Islamic Egyptian scholar, Izzedine Ibrahim. He received his degree from Sandhurst’s Royal Military Academy eight years after the formation of the Emirates. He got training in armor, flying, parachuting, helicopters, and tactical during his graduation. He has played a key role in security coordination with the U.S. military during the Persian Gulf War. His major contributions to the Emirati Air Force led him to the designation of Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces in 2005.
Personal Interests of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed
Renowned for its great leadership role, the current president of UAE has many unique interests, including:
- Hunting and falconry was the passion that he inherited from his father, the first president of the UAE.
- He deeply appreciates and is passionate about poetry, especially Nabati-style poetry, which is native to its region.
- He is a regular follower of UAE sports, which is prominent from HH’s regular visits and meetings with Emirati sportsmen and women.
- He can be called the patron of cultural and artistic initiatives to preserve the region’s heritage while continually fostering technological innovations.
Contributions and Initiatives
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed was elected as the third president of the nation by the Federal Supreme Council on May 14, 2022. However, he has contributed in many ways to the growth and advancement of the country even before that. Some major contributions and initiatives by His Highness before and after becoming the president are:
- For economic liberalization, he has introduced several policies, including VAT, corporate taxes, and bankruptcy laws.
- A significant step has been taken by him for environment conservation and protection by establishing the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi.
- Overseed and contributed to the introduction and establishment of the Arab world’s first nuclear power plant, Barakah.
- For a sustainable future, he has mandated the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030 and hosted COP28 UAE the previous year.
- For the development of a strong national character, he has prioritized the advancement of higher education and focused investment in sports.
- Through Ghadan 21, a magnificent accelerator program launched in 2018 with a budget of AED 50 billion, he has greatly supported the economic and infrastructure development of the UAE’s capital city.
His Highness’ Global Influence
His Highness has made a great global influence through working and promoting peace and security regionally and globally. He has been a key figure in the 2020 agreement between the UAE and Israel to normalize relations. Additionally, he has helped the crown prince of the KSA rise to power and participated in a military intervention in Yemen. His humanitarian and philanthropic efforts have earned him recognition and have set an example for others to follow.
He has made several independent decisions when it comes to furthering his country’s interests. Before becoming the president, HH was described as the most powerful leader of the Arab World in 2019 by the New York Times. In the same year, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan secured a position among the top 100 most influential people in the Times’ magazine.
Some Popular Online Searches About His Highness
The presidential palace, Qasr Al Watan of His Highness is located in the Emirates’ capital city. The UAE president palace is a cultural landmark that showcases the nation’s history, heritage, and traditions. It remains open for the general public throughout the week from 10 AM to 8 PM.
The current UAE president’s height is 183 cm. He is approximately 6 feet tall.
The UAE President’s Cup is a prominent football competition that was introduced in 1974 and is organized annually in the Emirates. This premium event celebrates football excellence and honors the country’s national heritage and sports leaders.
Conclusion
The current leader of the Emirates, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, believes in the power of all for the creation of a more prosperous and peaceful world.
Globally renowned for his great leadership, progressive political policies, cultural preservation, and technological innovations, His Highness is a visionary leader who is shaping a more brighter and successful future for the UAE.
