Four years have passed since the passing of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, but the traces of his vision and policies are still visible in various aspects of life in the UAE; from modern roads and cities to social support programs and humanitarian projects that have put the UAE on the global map.

His Highness Sheikh Khalifa, born in 1948 in Al Muwaiji Castle in Al Ain, closely witnessed the path of building the UAE alongside his father; a path focused on unity, the welfare of the people, and the development of the country. It is said that his continuous presence in public councils and direct communication with citizens played a significant role in shaping his calm and people-oriented management style.

When he assumed the presidency of the UAE in 2004, the country entered a new phase of development. During his era, major infrastructure projects in the UAE accelerated; from the development of roads and ports to the construction of hospitals and new homes, especially in the northern emirates, where part of their developmental gap was reduced.

In those years, the UAE sought to reduce its dependence on oil and invested more in sectors like tourism, aviation, industry, and financial services; a decision that later transformed the country into one of the most important commercial and economic hubs in the region.

Another significant part of his legacy relates to the lives of Emirati citizens. The construction of thousands of housing units, the launch of financial support programs, and the establishment of funds to assist indebted citizens were part of the initiatives aimed at maintaining social stability.

However, his influence was not limited to within the UAE. From the Indian Ocean tsunami in 2004 to the earthquake in Pakistan in 2005, the UAE became one of the countries that acted swiftly in global crises during his presidency. The Khalifa bin Zayed Charity Foundation's aid reached over 70 countries.

Alongside economic development, projects related to innovation and sustainability were also pursued more seriously during that period; from campaigns like 'Year of Innovation' and 'Year of Tolerance' to projects like 'Masdar City,' which was one of the first symbols of clean energy in the region.

Today, four years after the passing of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa, many believe that the UAE continues on the same path that he and Sheikh Zayed had laid; a path that combines rapid development, internal stability, and a prominent presence on the global stage.

Source: Gulf Times