UAE leaders praise fathers
UAE leaders celebrated Father’s Day on June 21 with a heartfelt tribute to their fathers and fathers around the world, highlighting the values of sacrifice, leadership, compassion and family that continue to shape the nation.In messages shared on social media, UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum spoke about the lasting impact of fatherhood and paid tribute to the late leaders who helped build the UAE.
Sheikh Mohammed remembers Sheikh Zayed
UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed shared a touching photo with his late father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the UAE.
Sheikh Mohammed described fathers as symbols of support, sacrifice and devotion, and said that Father’s Day was an occasion to remember Sheikh Zayed, whom he described as the embodiment of fatherhood who built a nation with wisdom, compassion, love and responsibility.He also praised fathers around the world who nurture their families, teach values and morals, and contribute to building stronger societies. The head of state offered prayers for the fathers who passed away, and wished blessings for fathers everywhere.
Sheikh Mohammed reflects on his father’s legacy
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum took this occasion to remember his late father, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, who ruled Dubai from 1958 until 1990.In a social media post accompanied by a video, Sheikh Mohammed spoke about the lasting impact parents leave behind, saying people are shaped by what their parents plant, build and pass on to future generations.He recalled the personality of Sheikh Rashid and described him as calm, dignified and decisive, who was not affected by praise, applause or flattery and valued honesty and integrity.
Sheikh Hamdan’s tribute to his father
Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum also shared an emotional Father’s Day message dedicated to Sheikh Mohammed.Sheikh Hamdan posted a video clip containing moments from his childhood, and credited his father with teaching him that serving the nation is an honor and that success must be measured by contribution, achievement, and positive impact.
He said that Sheikh Mohammed’s words, actions and journey continue to inspire Emiratis and prove that ambition has no limits.
Family is at the heart of the UAE’s vision
The celebration of Father’s Day comes during the UAE Year of the Family 2026 initiative, which places a renewed focus on strengthening family ties and supporting parents and children through various policies and programmes.In his message, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum stressed the importance of fathers in ensuring family stability and cohesion, saying that a strong family remains a source of strength for society and a major driver of national progress.
