Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed praises UAE's 'will to succeed' in personal letter to nation

The Emirates is 'open to all', writes Sheikh Mohamed as he pays tribute to the coalition of talents that has helped the country to thrive

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, said the UAE was on a path of progress. Photo: Crown Prince Court Abu Dhabi

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Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, has written a personal letter to the nation.

Writing to mark the UAE's Golden Jubilee, Sheikh Mohamed said the country had overcome huge challenges over the past 50 years but tougher ones could lie ahead.

He said science, technology and artificial intelligence were critical to the UAE's success and he encouraged more people to excel in these fields to face a "rapidly changing future".

Sheikh Mohamed also paid tribute to the country's young people, women and military. He also said the contributions of residents had been instrumental to the UAE's success.

"This year, our beloved nation marks a historic milestone," Sheikh Mohamed wrote.

"As we complete the first 50 years of our journey and prepare to embark on the next 50, we face the future with confidence, pride and a shared spirit of unity and determination," he said.

"We continue to draw lessons from the wisdom of our ancestors and take strength and inspiration from the courage and sacrifices of our martyrs."

The letter touched on many themes and stated that the "principles of the 50" would guide the country at home and abroad over the course of the next few years. It also said more hard work lay ahead.

"The last five decades have presented several challenges that we overcame thanks to our resolve, courage and unity. The challenges of the next 50 years may well be greater and as a people and a government, we must therefore intensify our efforts to prepare ourselves and our younger generations for a rapidly changing future."

Sheikh Mohamed said the country's youth were critical to the UAE's future success. He recognised the vital role played by women and encouraged more people to excel in science.

"The people of the UAE are encouraged to join our growing national efforts to excel in science, technology, and artificial intelligence – fields that will be fundamental to our own future and the future of the world."

Values and traditions

Sheikh Mohamed praised the country's values and traditions. He said "our shared national identity" would guide the UAE, which was already on a path of "sustained economic growth and development".

"Our unity remains our single greatest source of strength, and we believe that a secure, stable and robust country is best equipped to enjoy continued progress."

The letter, published on Sheikh Mohamed's social media feed, came just after the UAE marked Commemoration Day, honouring those who gave their lives in service.

"The courageous men and women of the UAE Armed Forces and our security services will continue to protect us as they have done with valour and distinction over the last 50 years, and we are grateful for their service and dedication," he said.

Sheikh Zayed, the Founding Father, raises the flag at Union House in Dubai on December 2, 1971, to mark the formation of the UAE. Photo: Al Ittihad

Crowds watch a parade of the Armed Forces, held to celebrate the UAE's creation. Photo: Shaukat Ali Rana

Sheikh Zayed signs the Federation Agreement on December 2, 1971, creating the UAE. On his left is Sheikh Rashid, then Ruler of Dubai. Behind them are Mahdi Al Tajir, Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid and Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid. Photo: Ramesh Shukla

Sheikh Zayed receives well-wishes at Al Manhal Palace.

Sheikh Zayed and the Rulers of Sharjah, Ajman, Dubai and Fujairah at Union House in Dubai on December 2, 1971. The Crown Prince of Umm Al Quwain attended the ceremony instead of the Ruler, who was unwell. Photo: Al Ittihad

The signing at Union House in Dubai on December 2, 1971. Sheikh Zayed reads the Treaty of Friendship between the UAE and Britain, watched by Sir Geoffrey Arthur, who sent cables home that detailed his recollection of proceedings.

Sheikh Zayed hosts a meeting at Al Manhal Palace in December 1971.

Sheikh Zayed receives guests at Al Manhal Palace.

The signing and speech at Union House. Ras Al Khaimah would join the union weeks later, in February 1972, completing the UAE as it is known today. Photo: Al Ittihad

Somewhere in Abu Dhabi, Mercedes Benz vehicles wait to transport dignitaries.

The circular building built in the late 1960s to serve as a meeting place for the Rulers as they discussed the new federation. It was later used for public lectures organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Photo: Alain Saint Hilaire

Sheikh Zayed, who became Ruler of Abu Dhabi in 1966, was the driving force behind bringing the seven emirates together.

Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed, then Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, now UAE President, attends the flag-raising ceremony at Al Manhal Palace on December 2, 1971. Photo: Al Ittihad Newspaper

The flag-raising at Al Manhal Palace on the day of the UAE's formation. Photo: Al Ittihad

The first edition of Al Ittihad on October 20, 1969.

Role of the UAE's residents

More than 200 nationalities call the UAE home and it was to this that Sheikh Mohamed then turned. He said countries could not rely "solely on their own people" and the nation's success story was the story of all those who had lived here.

"Expatriate residents have been an essential part of our journey and we remain open to all who wish to bring their energy, talent and creativity to our shores to help create a brighter future for all."

In conclusion, Sheikh Mohamed said the UAE remained a beacon of goodwill, peace and fraternity, and would work to bring countries and people closer together.

"We trust that our future will continue to shine with God's grace, our people's determination, and our indomitable will to succeed.

"May God bless the UAE and its people on this historic occasion and grant us continued peace, prosperity and well-being."

The letter was signed, Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.