ABU DHABI // On the 10th anniversary of Sheikh Khalifa’s succession, Emiratis have taken the opportunity to express their gratitude and love for him.
Taif Al Hammadi, 24, said she considers herself to be extremely lucky to be a citizen of the country and to have Sheikh Khalifa as a leader.
“This year, we are celebrating our great love to our father, Sheikh Khalifa, and our union as one happy nation,” she said. “He is a father who has given us security, care, homes and education. We are truly blessed.”
She said the last 10 years had witnessed “great change”, with much turmoil throughout the world. However, the leadership in the UAE has made sure the state remained stable and prosperous, she said.
“Because the leaders care about the people. They give what they can to make us happy, or else why would we be called the ‘happiest nation’. With the current events we see everywhere, with violence and chaos, we in the UAE are peaceful. I believe this sends a strong message to the world that we truly are the happiest country,” she said.
Majed Al Hameli, 37, said what differentiates Sheikh Khalifa from other leaders is that he is “liberal and sees his people as one”. He believed Emiratis must reciprocate their leader’s love by working hard towards developing their country.
“We can say Sheikh Khalifa is following the path of his father, Sheikh Zayed. Sheikh Khalifa shows us his love through his generosity and by always supporting justice,” he said.
Mohammed Al Mazrouei, 29, said Sheikh Khalifa’s benevolence to his people was typified by his Empowerment of the Citizen project, launched on the 34th National Day in 2005.
He also cited Sheikh Khalifa’s support for improving infrastructure and health care in the Northern Emirates, supporting Emirati women in the workforce, strengthening the labour market, and granting citizenship to children of UAE women married to foreigners.
“He is also a humanitarian leader as he is always the first to donate and provide assistance to countries in need,” said Mr Mazrouei.
Mohammed Taqi said Sheikh Khalifa is not only a leader, but a “beacon that continues Sheikh Zayed’s work”.
“During Sheikh Zayed’s reign, the main changes had to do with infrastructure. With Sheikh Khalifa, he included young people in the advancement of technology as well as the youth’s and community’s development.”
Mr Taqi said the success of the UAE in recent years was because of Sheikh Khalifa’s belief in his people. “And our success is how we show our love back,” he said.
Omar Khamis said Sheikh Khalifa was a powerful leader who cared for Emiratis’ welfare and “considered them as family”.
“His journey has been one of success and development, while also ensuring his people’s needs are fulfilled,” said Mr Khamis.
“He is a generous and loving leader. He is a father to his people,” he said.
aalkhoori@thenational.ae
