His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the UAE, stated that Eid Al Etihad is a national occasion symbolising the unity of the Emirati people and the determination driving the nation’s development. He emphasised that the UAE is well prepared for the future, with skilled nationals, modern infrastructure, strong institutions, and a cohesive society, noting that investing in youth is central to sustaining the nation’s development. Praying for the UAE’s continued security and prosperity, His Highness said that Eid Al Etihad celebrates the nation’s progress and its hopes for a brighter future guided by the enduring values of the Union and the profound legacy of the Founding Fathers. His Highness noted that the UAE has also earned a reputation as a voice for peace, coexistence, and international cooperation, promoting stability and humanitarian values worldwide. Sheikh Maktoum further said that Eid Al Etihad marks not only a national commemoration but also an occasion to celebrate achievements and reaffirm commitment to the Founding Fathers and every effort to strengthen the Union. Our strength lies in turning ambitions into reality, drawing on our talent and capabilities. As we mark the 54th Eid Al Etihad, I extend my deepest appreciation to our armed forces, security agencies and civil protection authorities for their dedication in safeguarding our nation and ensuring its cities remain the safest in the world. I commend every family that instils Emirati values in their children and all who approach their work with commitment and excellence. He added that the day highlights the close bond between the leadership and the people, reflecting the UAE’s founding values that continue to shape its future. His Highness said that Eid Al Etihad commemorates the historic moment when the Founding Fathers, led by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, came together with a shared vision to establish a strong nation that could fulfil the aspirations of its people. History records it as the birth of the United Arab Emirates and the start of a remarkable journey to fulfil the aspirations of its people. On the occasion of Eid Al Etihad every year, we remember with deep gratitude the architects of our Union, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, and their fellow Founding Fathers. This day reminds us that our progress is rooted in our togetherness and that our shared ambitions will continue to guide the path forward.
His Highness especially recognised our young men and women excelling in space science, nuclear energy, precision industries, healthcare and engineering, who are building a vibrant scientific community that drives our nation forward. May Allah help us achieve our goals and continue strengthening the UAE. On the occasion of the 54th Eid Al Etihad, I extend my heartfelt greetings and congratulations to everyone, as well as to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and to Their Highnesses, Members of the Supreme Council and the Rulers of the Emirates. On this day in 1971, our Founding Fathers laid the foundations of a unique model of unity in our region and the wider Arab world. The UAE has since emerged as a distinctive example of unity, cooperation and solidarity, achieving remarkable successes beyond expectations. Sheikh Maktoum affirmed that, under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and Their Highnesses the Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the Emirates, the UAE continues to strengthen its presence on the global stage.
Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, said that Eid Al Etihad, observed on 2 December, embodies a national journey defined by the vision of the UAE’s leadership and the values that continue to guide the country’s progress. Her Highness said: “Eid Al Etihad is a reminder of the vision and determination of our Founding Fathers, who united around a shared purpose and laid the foundations of a nation that places people, opportunity and the future at its core. Their legacy continues to inspire us and demonstrates what can be achieved when a society is driven by shared values and a firm belief in developing human potential.” Her Highness added: “As we mark the 54th Eid Al Etihad under the theme ‘United,’ we reaffirm the values that bind us. Their legacy endures through their children and grandchildren, who over the past two decades have helped drive the nation’s progress. The youth of the UAE are our pride today and the promise of the future.” He highlighted that this progress is driven by a comprehensive strategic vision aimed at building a sustainable economy, promoting social cohesion, and placing people at the heart of development. His Highness added that the UAE’s journey tracks a story of immense determination, with its leadership and people driving its sustained growth as an economic force and a global hub for trade, investment, energy and innovation, alongside its strong focus on future sectors such as AI, space, and renewables. Despite the pressures of globalisation, they continue to raise their children with strong values and a clear sense of identity. Over the past year, the UAE has achieved high ranking in major global development and competitiveness indices. Our strength has always come from the unity that shaped our journey from the outset and from our collective commitment to building a future where the UAE continues to stand as a global model of leadership, creativity and innovation. He affirmed that the family is where our culture, values and identity are first shaped and protected, and that strong, growing Emirati families are essential to the nation’s future. Emirati families have long been, and remain, the foundation of our society. Yet, like the rest of the world, we are still at an early stage of the AI journey, which requires us to keep pace with fast-moving changes in the field. Celebrating Eid Al Etihad reminds us to uphold our principles, values and traditions, and pass them on to the next generation. They are committed to learning, personal growth and staying engaged with global developments, adapting to new challenges and using their skills to serve their nation and community. At the 7th UAE Government Annual Meetings held in November, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, declared 2026 as the Year of the Family in support of the National Family Growth Agenda 2031. The UAE is also a global leader in humanitarian contributions and is recognised as the world’s largest donor of aid relative to Gross National Income. In 2017, the UAE became the first country to adopt a national artificial intelligence (AI) strategy, the first to create a ministerial post to lead it, and the first to appoint Chief AI Officers across federal entities. As I have often said, our achievements are now part of our history, a legacy we continue to build upon. Since then, we have built global partnerships, launched the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence in 2019, and made AI a key priority in national planning and capacity building programmes. Their vision, resolve, and ability to overcome challenges continue to inspire us. We also honour the pioneering generation who shaped the Union’s early years. This progress reflects the effectiveness of national strategies, the strength of our economy, the quality of our legislation, and the security and stability of our country. This sustained effort is now evident across our infrastructure, education system, government services and private sector. May He bless our country, keep it safe, and grant us the ability to serve it with dedication. It also underscores the high quality of life enjoyed by citizens and residents alike.
