“Our Father Zayed”: New Book Reveals Intimate Portrait of the UAE’s Founding Leader
A new memoir, “With Zayed,” offers a deeply personal account of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE’s founding father, through the recollections of His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Ruler of Fujairah. The 221-page book, recently released by the Fujairah Government Media Office, paints a portrait of a leader defined not only by ambitious development projects but also by profound humility, generosity, and a paternal connection with his people.
The book details the fulfillment of a promise made in 1972: “We will make it a green paradise, God willing.” This vision, as recounted by Sheikh Hamad, underscores Sheikh Zayed’s commitment to transforming the desert landscape of the Emirates. The narrative emphasizes that this transformation was rooted in a belief in the power of human potential, prioritizing the well-being of citizens above all else.
A Father to a Nation
Central to the book’s narrative is the recurring description of Sheikh Zayed as “Our Father Zayed.” This wasn’t merely a metaphor, Sheikh Hamad explains, but a reflection of the deep emotional bond felt by generations of Emiratis. The term encapsulates a relationship built on wisdom, loyalty, and genuine love, a sentiment consistently reinforced throughout the memories shared.
Sheikh Hamad’s recollections span over half a century, beginning in his early twenties, and offer a firsthand account of pivotal moments in the nation’s history, including the birth of the union. He vividly remembers the first meeting of the Council of Ministers on December 11, 1971, and his own appointment as Minister of Agriculture. He recalls Sheikh Zayed’s emphasis on the importance of learning from the past, stating, “There is no doubt that returning to that history has great importance, not only for me, but also for the generations that will assume responsibility after me.” Sheikh Hamad describes drawing inspiration from Sheikh Zayed’s guidance, viewing him as a father figure who instilled enthusiasm and purpose.
Beyond Development: A Leader of Character
While acknowledging Sheikh Zayed’s ambitious development projects across the Emirates, the book places significant emphasis on his human qualities. Sheikh Hamad recounts numerous instances illustrating Sheikh Zayed’s humility and genuine concern for the welfare of ordinary citizens. These included stopping his motorcade to check on an elderly woman, personally assisting farmers in their fields, and visiting families to inquire about their well-being and children’s academic performance, often offering generous rewards for excellence.
One particularly poignant memory details a visit to Fujairah in March 1972, where Sheikh Zayed, surveying the vast sandy lands, reiterated his vision of a “green paradise.” Sheikh Hamad recalls feeling a sense of awe, recognizing in Sheikh Zayed both a father figure and a visionary leader determined to build a modern state.
A Trust to Build Upon
Sheikh Zayed’s philosophy extended beyond grand schemes, emphasizing the responsibility of stewardship. As Sheikh Hamad recounts, the founder once told him, “My son Hamad, this land is not just a desert. Rather, it is a trust in our possessions. If we build it well and are sincere in serving its people, it will become for us a lush paradise and a habitat for goodness and giving.” This sentiment underscores the importance Sheikh Zayed placed on sustainable development and the well-being of future generations.
The book also highlights Sheikh Zayed’s personal warmth and generosity, exemplified by an anecdote involving an elderly woman in Al Ain. Upon learning she was tending to trees in the heat, Sheikh Zayed gifted her his car, stating, “This good old woman is the mother of all of us.” This act, Sheikh Hamad notes, embodies Sheikh Zayed’s values and continues to inspire acts of kindness throughout the Emirates.
The “Man with the Green Hand”
Sheikh Hamad’s perspective as the first Minister of Agriculture provides unique insight into Sheikh Zayed’s commitment to environmental sustainability. He recalls Sheikh Zayed’s constant refrain: “Plant here a palm tree… and here a forest… and here a sidra.” This dedication to “greening” the nation was a central preoccupation, driving initiatives across the Emirates.
The book is complemented by rare photographs documenting Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Hamad’s interactions over the years, capturing moments of humility, determination, and shared vision. These images, spanning decades, offer a visual testament to their enduring relationship and the progress of the UAE.
A Lover of Wisdom and Poetry
Beyond his leadership and humanitarian efforts, “With Zayed” reveals a more personal side of the founder, highlighting his appreciation for culture and intellectual pursuits. Sheikh Hamad recounts that Sheikh Zayed was a devoted admirer of the renowned Arabic poet Abu Al-Tayeb Al-Mutanabbi, often quoting his verses and even sharing recordings of his poetry performed by Lebanese artist Abdul Majeed Majzoub. The verse, “Horses, night, and desert know me… and the sword, spear, paper, and pen…” resonated with Sheikh Zayed, embodying themes of knowledge, courage, and insight.
The introduction to “With Zayed,” penned by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah, eloquently captures the legacy of Sheikh Zayed, describing him as “the father of a nation, the builder of a state, and a leader who inspired the world.” He emphasizes that the book is a living embodiment of the relationship and love between Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Hamad, offering invaluable insights into a transformative era. Sheikh Mohammed recalls a particularly touching moment when Sheikh Zayed, upon meeting him for the first time, remarked, “Oh my son, O Muhammad, you are the son of Sheikh Hamad, as is your father’s soul…” – words that continue to resonate deeply within the family and the nation.
“With Zayed” serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring values and visionary leadership that shaped the United Arab Emirates, solidifying Sheikh Zayed’s place not just as a ruler, but as a beloved father figure to an entire nation.
Worth a look
