The United Arab Emirates will officially observe January 7 as Zayed the Founder Day beginning in 2027, a new annual national occasion dedicated to honoring the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The announcement was made by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan in a social media post, highlighting the day’s purpose to celebrate Sheikh Zayed’s enduring impact and inspire continued progress in the country.

Sheikh Zayed, who is widely regarded as the founding father of the UAE, played a pivotal role in unifying the emirates and laying the groundwork for the nation’s development. The president emphasized that his life was marked by vision, generosity, and a commitment to service, qualities that remain central to the UAE’s identity. The newly declared holiday aims to commemorate these attributes and encourage the application of Sheikh Zayed’s wisdom in the country’s ongoing advancement.

The selection of January 7, early in the calendar year, is intentional, as it coincides with the start of the academic and business year across the UAE. This timing provides an opportunity for citizens and residents to reflect on the principles Sheikh Zayed championed and renew their dedication to these values as they embark on the year ahead, according to Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed.

The establishment of Zayed the Founder Day underscores the UAE’s efforts to preserve the memory and values of its founding leader, ensuring that his contributions continue to inspire future generations. The move has been welcomed as a reinforcement of national unity and a reminder of the foundational ideals that have guided the UAE’s rapid growth and development.