New annual national occasion to honour Sheikh Zayed’s legacy and contributions
By Daily Times Reporter
DUBAI – The United Arab Emirates has declared January 7 as Zayed the Founder Day, a new annual national occasion dedicated to honouring the legacy of the country’s founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan announced the decision on Wednesday, October 28, saying the occasion would celebrate Sheikh Zayed’s enduring legacy and ensure his values continue to guide the nation’s development.
In a statement shared on X, Sheikh Mohamed described Sheikh Zayed as a leader whose vision, generosity and commitment to humanity shaped the UAE’s formation and progress.
The President said the new occasion would focus on translating the founding father’s wisdom into action while keeping his principles alive as the country advances into the future.
Sheikh Zayed played a central role in establishing the UAE and laying the foundations for its development, with his leadership widely associated with national unity, humanitarian service and generosity.
Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan welcomed the announcement, saying it renewed national pride in the founding father’s legacy and the values upon which the country was built.
In a post on X, Sheikh Mansour said the greatest tribute to Sheikh Zayed would be to keep his approach alive in people’s hearts and minds and ensure that his values are instilled in future generations.
The annual observance will provide an opportunity for the UAE to reflect on Sheikh Zayed’s contributions and reaffirm the principles that continue to shape the nation’s identity and aspirations.
