Simply Abu Dhabi XXIX

As President, Sheikh Zayed once again called on the Bedouin traditions of consensus and consultation. He maintained the practice of informal meetings in the majlis he had witnessed as a boy where his father held so many discussions. Then, as Abu Dhabi began its rapid development, Sheikh Zayed formalised the majli system in 1970 by forming the National Consultative Council, which brought together the leaders of each of the Emirates. The Federal National Council was established in 1971. The co-architect of the UAE’s nationhood, H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler of Dubai and Vice President of the UAE, recently spoke about what Sheikh Zayed’s legacy is the present day, as well as the future: “Sheikh Zayed has instilled in us the willpower and determination to challenge and achieve the impossible. This is why we are always convinced that we are capable of being pioneers and to become one of the best countries in the world. He inspired us to see his way to the future, to follow in his footsteps with confidence and insight, and to consolidate the gains and achievements.” The Core Values of Sheikh Zayed His public career is evidence enough of the Sheikh’s wisdom, the first of the values being commemorated in the Year of Zayed. But how were the other values manifested, and how do they resonate with us today? Respect In his interactions with everyone, from all walks of life, Sheikh Zayed treated everyone with the utmost respect for their humanity. He advocated for brotherhood and unity, and stood firmly against intolerance. He once said, “The true Muslim is friendly to all human beings and a brother to other