Zayed Humanitarian Work Day
The founding leader, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, laid the foundations of a remarkable legacy in humanitarian giving, etched in history with letters of light, both at the regional and international levels.
May he rest in peace, he firmly believed that goodness is meant for all and that no matter how much one gives or spends, Allah will bless them with even more. He upheld the principle that every human has a right to the support of their fellow human, especially those facing hardships that call for solidarity and assistance. This unwavering belief shaped Sheikh Zayed’s journey, making it rich in humanitarian generosity, as his benevolence reached far and wide across the globe.
He was deeply convinced that giving is not merely an act of generosity, but a sacred duty. He believed that solidarity, cooperation, and mutual support in times of need are the fundamental values that strengthen bonds of brotherhood and unity among humankind.
To ensure the continuation of this legacy, the founding leader established institutions responsible for administrative and executive tasks. These institutions launched humanitarian initiatives that provided developmental and aid programs to supply essential needs for those in need—individuals forced by wars, armed conflicts, and natural disasters to face difficult conditions that rendered them unable to secure even the most basic human necessities such as shelter, food, and clothing.
For this reason, may he rest in peace, he instructed that aid be provided without discrimination, ensuring that recipients’ dignity was preserved while empowering them to rebuild their lives, develop their economic capabilities, and actively participate in creating better living conditions.
Sheikh Zayed, may he rest in peace, believed that developmental aid and programs were the key to ensuring a dignified life for these individuals, transforming them from mere recipients of assistance into active partners in their own progress.
This exceptional approach to humanitarian giving, established by Sheikh Zayed throughout his lifetime, helped spread the values of brotherhood, love, and peace. He believed that true giving is that which safeguards human dignity and empowers individuals to overcome challenges and create opportunities.
Sheikh Zayed’s humanitarian approach stands as a model of humanitarian diplomacy, positioning the United Arab Emirates as a pioneer in this noble field. The continuation of this approach is credited to our wise leadership, led by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE—may Allah protect him—alongside his deputies, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai—may Allah bless him—His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chief of the Presidential Court, as well as their fellow rulers, members of the Supreme Council, and the people of the UAE, who have upheld this path as a guiding light from generation to generation.
Human fraternity, tolerance, and compassion are noble values deeply embedded in the culture of the UAE, continuing to reflect the efforts of Sheikh Zayed, may he rest in peace, and the dedication of his sons and the people of the UAE.
Fatima bint Mubarak