'We are what they built': UAE leaders pay emotional tributes to fathers on Father's Day

UAE leaders marked Father's Day on June 21 with heartfelt tributes to their fathers and to fathers across the world, highlighting values of sacrifice, leadership, compassion and family that continue to shape the nation.In messages shared on social media, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice-President and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum reflected on the enduring influence of fatherhood and paid tribute to the late leaders who helped build the UAE.

Sheikh Mohamed remembers Sheikh Zayed

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed shared a touching photograph with his father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Founding Father of the UAE.

Describing fathers as symbols of support, sacrifice and devotion, Sheikh Mohamed said Father's Day was an occasion to remember Sheikh Zayed, whom he called an embodiment of fatherhood who built a nation through wisdom, compassion, love and responsibility.He also paid tribute to fathers around the world who nurture their families, teach values and morals, and contribute to stronger communities. The UAE President offered prayers for fathers who have passed away and wished blessings upon fathers everywhere.

Sheikh Mohammed reflects on legacy of his father

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum used the occasion to remember his late father, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, who ruled Dubai from 1958 until 1990.In a social media post accompanied by a video, Sheikh Mohammed reflected on the lasting impact fathers leave behind, saying people are shaped by what their parents sow, build and pass on to future generations.He also recalled Sheikh Rashid's personality, describing him as calm, dignified and decisive, someone who was not swayed by praise, applause or flattery and who valued honesty and integrity.

Sheikh Hamdan's tribute to his father

Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum also shared an emotional Father's Day message dedicated to Sheikh Mohammed.Posting a video featuring moments from his childhood, Sheikh Hamdan credited his father with teaching him that serving the nation is an honour and that success should be measured by contribution, achievement and positive impact.

He said Sheikh Mohammed's words, actions and journey continue to inspire Emiratis and demonstrate that ambition has no limits.

Family at the heart of UAE's vision

The Father's Day tributes come during the UAE's Year of the Family initiative for 2026, which places renewed focus on strengthening family bonds and supporting parents and children through various policies and programmes.In his message, Sheikh Mohamed underscored the importance of fathers in ensuring family stability and cohesion, saying strong families remain a source of strength for society and a key driver of national progress.The messages resonated across the country as leaders celebrated the role of fathers in shaping families, communities and the future of the UAE.