SimplyAbuDhabi XLV

This collaborative approach, rooted in the Bedouin traditions of his youth, allowed Sheikh Zayed to navigate the complex political landscape and steer the fledgling federation towards rapid economic and social development, while preserving the unique cultural identity of the Emirati people. A Vision for Sustainable Development and Environmental Stewardship At the core of Sheikh Zayed’s visionary leadership was his unwavering commitment to sustainable development and environmental preservation. Shaped by his deep reverence for the natural world and the Bedouin way of life, the Sheikh recognized the intrinsic value of the UAE’s fragile desert ecosystem and the need to protect it for future generations. As Ruler of Abu Dhabi and President of the UAE, Sheikh Zayed implemented a comprehensive conservation program that sought to safeguard the nation’s indigenous flora and fauna. He personally spearheaded efforts to reintroduce the endangered Arabian oryx and sand gazelle to their natural habitats, and established protected areas and national parks to ensure the long-term survival of these species. Beyond wildlife conservation, Sheikh Zayed’s environmental stewardship extended to the preservation of the UAE’s scarce water resources and the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices. Through the restructuring of water ownership rights and the restoration of the ancient falaj irrigation system, he was able to foster agricultural development and enhance food security for the Emirati people. The Sheikh’s visionary approach to environmental protection was not limited to domestic affairs; he also recognized the global importance of sustainability and the need for international cooperation. Under his leadership, the UAE played a prominent role in global environmental initiatives, and Sheikh Zayed himself was awarded the prestigious Gold Panda Award by the World Wildlife Fund in 1997 for his lifelong commitment to conservation. In 2005, a year after his passing, the United Nations Environment Programme posthumously honoured Sheikh Zayed with the “Champion of the Earth” award, recognizing his pioneering efforts in sustainable development and his enduring legacy as a true custodian of the environment. Commitment to Tolerance, Diversity, and Humanitarian Aid Alongside his remarkable achievements in nation-building and environmental stewardship, Sheikh Zayed was also renowned for his steadfast commitment to tolerance, diversity, and humanitarian aid. Guided by the principles of his Islamic faith, the Sheikh believed in the fundamental unity of humanity and the importance of embracing cultural differences. Under his leadership, the UAE emerged as a beacon of religious and ethnic harmony, welcoming people from all walks of life and backgrounds to contribute to the nation’s progress. Sheikh Zayed firmly rejected any form of intolerance or extremism, stating that “the true Muslim is friendly to all human beings and a brother to other Muslims and non-Muslims alike.” One man who knew him very well was Zaki Nusseibeh, who spent many years by the Sheikh’s side as his translator and interpreter. With his service to Sheikh Zayed beginning three years before the federation of the UAE and continuing until the ruler’s death in 2004, Mr Nusseibeh had a unique insight and unprecedented access to the Sheikh’s motivations and reflections on all aspects of life in the new nation. As Mr Nusseibeh recalls in an interview granted to Bidoun Magazine, “He wanted the entire Arab world to come together and work together in closer cooperation. But in the Emirates, he felt that all the people belonged to the same community, shared the same history, the same traditions, the same heritage. When Sheikh Zayed starting building the state, he brought in anyone he thought could help. This is why he welcomed people from all countries, Arab or non-Arab.” 70 | Simply Abu Dhabi