Timeframe: Rolling out a tribute to Sheikh Zayed

The year is 2006 and these workers are on a mission to complete this giant portrait of UAE Founding Father Sheikh Zayed in time for the marking of the second anniversary of his death.

It is November in that year, and the structure the men are tirelessly working on is as big as the heart of the man being honoured. A man who the nation is currently celebrating in this, the Year of Zayed.

This image is a timely one given that it was announced this week that the latest tribute to Sheikh Zayed – the Founder’s Memorial in Abu Dhabi – will officially open to the public on April 22.

Located at the edge of Emirate's Palace, before the Corniche Breakwater road, the memorial site features a visitors' centre and an installation by artist Ralph Helmich. The giant image in this 12-year-old photo and the tribute to be opened next week are just some of the many across the Emirates.

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The burning issue

The internal combustion engine is facing a watershed moment – major manufacturer Volvo is to stop producing petroleum-powered vehicles by 2021 and countries in Europe, including the UK, have vowed to ban their sale before 2040. The National takes a look at the story of one of the most successful technologies of the last 100 years and how it has impacted life in the UAE.

Read part three: the age of the electric vehicle begins

Read part two: how climate change drove the race for an alternative

Read part one: how cars came to the UAE

UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets

Timeframe: Rolling out a tribute to Sheikh Zayed

It is November 2006 and workers are working tirelessly to finished a giant portrait of UAE Founding Father

The burning issue

UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets