As part of the Seminars of its 2024 Cultural Season,
The National Library and Archives Celebrates Sheikh Zayed’s Visions and Sustainable Legacy
The National Library and Archives shed light upon a collection of sustainable visions of the late founder and builder Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, which still remain firmly rooted in the identity of the United Arab Emirates in locally, regionally and globally. These ambitious visions have significantly contributed to the growth and progress of the UAE under the wise leadership that has followed Sheikh Zayed’s path.
The seminar, part of the 2024 cultural season, featured several young researchers from the Trends Research & Advisory and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center. They documented aspects of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s contributions and his emphasis on the human element as the true wealth of the nation. They also discussed the development of the UAE under his leadership, his efforts in transforming the desert sands into a flourishing oasis, and the prosperous homeland that now holds a significant position among the world’s advanced countries.
Dr. Husniya Mohammed Al Ali, Educational Programs Consultant at the National Library and Archives, opened the seminar, emphasizing that Sheikh Zayed’s legacy will remain forever in the UAE and in the hearts of its people and residents. The National Library and Archives highlights a collection of his wise visions and remarkable achievements both locally and globally to draw inspiration from them, strengthen our national principles and human values, to guide us as we strive for a more prosperous future.
The seminar began with a paper by Mr. Hamad Al Hosani from Trends Research & Advisory. He emphasized that Sheikh Zayed placed significant focus on education, empowerment, and ensuring the welfare of all segments of society, both in the UAE and globally. Sheikh Zayed worked tirelessly to protect the heritage of our land, environment, and natural resources. He pointed out that Sheikh Zayed regarded people as the true wealth of the nation. Additionally, he was committed to establishing and building all facilities, which earned the UAE a prominent place on the world map.
Al Hosani stated, “Sheikh Zayed’s approach to sustainability is evident across various fields, including economic, social, environmental, and cultural sectors. The factors influencing his sustainable thinking stemmed from his upbringing in an environment rich in cultural and human heritage.”
He also asserted that the UAE’s wise leadership continues to draw benefit from Sheikh Zayed’s legacy, following his path in shaping sustainable development agendas across all sectors to ensure a better future for the coming generations.
Next, Ms. Najla Al Madfa from Trends Research & Advisory presented her paper, affirming that the legacy of a visionary leader is not just history but a living testimony that shapes our present and inspires our future. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father and wise builder of the UAE, focused on building a strong modern state based on principles of unity, cooperation, and justice, ensuring a dignified and happy life for every citizen. His goal was not only to achieve well-being for his people but also to embody human values and provide a decent life on a broader scale.
Under his wise leadership, the UAE transformed from a barren desert into a prosperous and advanced nation in the various fields of science, knowledge, and health. This progress originated from Sheikh Zayed’s dedication to people, seen as the true foundation of sustainable development. The UAE’s leadership continues to draw values from Sheikh Zayed’s legacy, following his path in establishing sustainable development agendas to ensure a better future for generations to come.
Ms. Najla Al Madfa emphasized that Sheikh Zayed’s legacy extends beyond infrastructure and grand projects; it is deeply rooted in the values and principles, hard work, loyalty to the homeland, and commitment to community service. This is what makes us proud of our country and its wise leadership.
She stated “His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, launched the ‘Zayed Humanitarian Legacy Initiative’ with a budget of 20 billion Dirhams dedicated to humanitarian efforts in the most needy communities worldwide. This initiative coincides with Zayed Humanitarian Day and marks the 20th anniversary of the passing of the founder, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan”.
On the occasion, His Highness remarked, “Preserving Zayed’s legacy is a shared responsibility; his name has always been associated with benevolence and humanity, and we will continue to uphold this inspiring legacy.”
Ms. Amina Al Hamadi from Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center then spoke about Zayed’s legacy, focusing exclusively on Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. She highlithed how the mosque stands as a monumental and sustainable legacy celebrating Sheikh Zayed’s values, which have become deeply ingrained in the hearts of the UAE’s citizens and residents. The mosque is a landmark that showcases the nation’s and society’s values to the world, prominently featuring tolerance, coexistence, and strengthening relations with people globally.
Al Hamadi highlighted that the mosque was designed by Sheikh Zayed to symbolize unity, tolerance, coexistence, and integration among the world’s peoples.
She elaborated on the architectural features of the mosque, its global recognition reflected in the high number of visitors, and the numerous writings about on international websites. The mosque also plays an educational role, presenting Sheikh Zayed’s noble principles and values to the world.
Al Hamadi concluded by affirming that a leader and founder like Sheikh Zayed will always be our enduring source of inspiration and a symbol of our identity and national culture, of which we are immensely proud.