UAE declares January 7 as Zayed the Founder Day

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, October 28, 2026

The United Arab Emirates has established January 7 as Zayed the Founder Day to honor Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the country's founding father and first president. This new annual observance aims to promote national unity and educate future generations about Sheikh Zayed’s role in uniting the seven emirates and shaping the nation’s development.

The United Arab Emirates has officially designated January 7 as Zayed the Founder Day to honor the legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the nation’s first president and founding father. The declaration was made by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who highlighted Sheikh Zayed’s pivotal role in uniting the seven emirates and laying the foundation for the country’s development.

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed described Sheikh Zayed as a visionary leader whose life was marked by generosity, wisdom, and service to humanity. The founding father, often referred to as “the wise man of the Arabs,” is credited with spearheading efforts that led to the formation of the UAE in 1971 and nurturing its growth into a modern federation.

The establishment of Zayed the Founder Day will serve as an annual occasion to celebrate and reflect on Sheikh Zayed’s contributions. Rather than limiting commemoration to a single day, the initiative is intended to inspire ongoing engagement throughout the year. It aims to provide opportunities for individuals and institutions to promote Sheikh Zayed’s principles and values, with a particular focus on educating younger generations who did not experience his leadership firsthand.

The selection of January 7 holds symbolic significance. The date, represented as 07.01, reflects the foundation of the seven emirates into one nation, underscoring Sheikh Zayed’s vision for unity and federalism. It also aligns with the year the union was formed—1971—and falls during the first week of the new year when schools and institutions resume activities. This timing is intended to serve as a renewal point for reconnecting with the values that shaped the UAE under Sheikh Zayed’s guidance.

Officials have indicated the day will be marked by various programs and initiatives aimed at fostering national cohesion and awareness of the founding father’s legacy. Through annual observances and ongoing educational efforts, the UAE seeks to preserve the memory of Sheikh Zayed’s leadership and instill his vision in future generations.

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