This year's Father's Day in the UAE was accompanied by an old image and an emotional message from His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed; a black-and-white image showing him as a child next to his father, His Excellency Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder of the UAE.

The President of the UAE described His Excellency Sheikh Zayed as the 'symbol of fatherhood' and stated that with wisdom, love, affection, and responsibility, he built not only a family but a nation. His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed also emphasized that fathers are the pillars of support, security, and stability for families and play a crucial role in shaping society.

He further expressed gratitude to all fathers who raise their children with love and pass on moral values to the next generation.

At the same time, His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Ruler of Dubai, also released a video of his father, His Excellency Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, and wrote: 'We are the product of what they planted, built, and left for us.'

His Excellency Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, the Crown Prince of Dubai, also reacted to the occasion by sharing a video of moments from his childhood alongside his father.

These messages come as the year 2026 has been designated in the UAE as the 'Year of Family'; a year in which the government has prioritized a set of new policies and support to strengthen the family foundation. His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed concluded his message by expressing hope that families remain a source of strength for society and the progress of the country, wishing health for all fathers around the world and mercy for the deceased.

Source: Khaleej Times