Dubai–On December 2, 2025, marking the 54th anniversary of Eid Al Etihad (Union Day), His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, issued a powerful statement celebrating the nation’s founding, reaffirming its commitment to core values, and outlining strategic priorities, particularly focused on empowering families and advancing technological leadership. The message extended greetings to the President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and Their Highnesses, the Members of the Supreme Council and Rulers of the Emirates, commemorating the foundational moment in 1971 when the nation’s architects established a unique model of regional unity.
Honoring the Legacy of the Founders
The annual observance of Union Day serves as a moment of profound gratitude for the Founding Fathers, notably the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum. Sheikh Mohammed highlighted that their resolve and vision in overcoming foundational challenges continue to inspire the modern state. The celebration acknowledged both the pioneering generation that established the initial union and the subsequent generations who have propelled the nation’s rapid progress over the past two decades.
Central to the nation’s ongoing strength is its youth, whom Sheikh Mohammed praised as the “pride today and the promise of the future.” He noted their commitment to continuous learning, personal growth, and engagement with global developments, emphasizing their crucial role in adapting skills to national service and community betterment.
The Year of the Family and Societal Foundation
A significant theme in the national agenda is the emphasis on social cohesion. Following the 7th UAE Government Annual Meetings in November, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, declared 2026 the Year of the Family, aligning with the broader National Family Growth Agenda 2031. This initiative recognizes the family as the primary institution where culture, values, and national identity are cultivated and safeguarded. Despite global pressures, Emirati families are recognized as the enduring foundation of society, tasked with raising children grounded in strong values and a clear sense of identity.
Global Excellence and Technological Leadership
The statement underscored the UAE’s sustained success on the international stage, noting its high rankings across major global development and competitiveness indices. This progress, according to Sheikh Mohammed, reflects the efficacy of national strategies, economic resilience, quality legislation, and the robust security and stability that contribute to a high quality of life for all residents. Internationally, the UAE maintains its status as a global leader in humanitarian contributions, recognized as the world’s largest donor of aid relative to its Gross National Income.
Maintaining its edge in future technologies, the UAE remains committed to its pioneering role in Artificial Intelligence (AI). Since becoming the first country in 2017 to adopt a national AI strategy and appoint a dedicated Minister and Chief AI Officers, the UAE has solidified its leadership. Key initiatives include the launch of the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence in 2019 and integrating AI as a strategic priority across infrastructure, education, government services, and the private sector. The leadership stressed the need to rapidly adapt to changes in the field, recognizing that the nation is still in the early stages of the AI journey.
Commitment to Security and Future Talent
Concluding his message, Sheikh Mohammed reiterated the importance of upholding national principles, values, and traditions, stressing the continuity of national ambition. He extended deep appreciation to the armed forces, security agencies, and civil protection authorities for their unwavering dedication in safeguarding the nation.
He also commended individuals who demonstrate excellence and commitment, especially recognizing young Emirati men and women excelling in vital fields such as space science, nuclear energy, precision industries, healthcare, and engineering. These emerging experts are actively building a vibrant scientific community critical to the nation’s future advancement, ensuring that the legacy built over 54 years continues to evolve into new realms of achievement.