His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid emphasised that this year’s Ramadan coincides with “The Year of Community,” offering a significant opportunity to reinforce national unity and strengthen social bonds.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, welcomed Ramadan well-wishers at Al Shindagha Majlis, marking the beginning of the holy month with a gathering of dignitaries, officials, and business leaders.
The reception was attended by His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, alongside His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai. Together, they received greetings from a host of local dignitaries, senior officials, investors, and members of the business community.
During the gathering, Sheikh Mohammed exchanged Ramadan greetings and extended his best wishes for continued peace and prosperity in the UAE and across the Arab and Islamic world. He emphasised that this year’s Ramadan coincides with “The Year of Community,” offering a significant opportunity to reinforce national unity and strengthen social bonds.
Sheikh Mohammed underscored the importance of passing down the UAE’s deep-rooted values, customs, and heritage to younger generations. He highlighted how these traditions play a vital role in shaping the UAE as a global model for harmony, coexistence, and peace.
The event was also attended by senior members of Dubai’s leadership, including His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman of Emirates Group; His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Sports Council; and several other dignitaries and high-ranking officials.
The reception served as a moment of reflection and unity, bringing together leaders and citizens in the spirit of Ramadan to celebrate the values of compassion and community.
Recently, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed met with His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, at Al Marmoom, Dubai.
Their Highnesses prayed for the UAE and its people, seeking continued prosperity and blessings under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE.
During the meeting, they reflected on the values of Ramadan, particularly generosity, giving, and spreading happiness. They emphasised the UAE’s strong traditions of charity and its global leadership in humanitarian aid, highlighting its role in uplifting communities and inspiring hope for a brighter future.
Balance of Emirati Identity
The first session of the Ministry of Interior’s Ramadan Councils (Al Majalis) explored “The Balance of Emirati Identity,” focusing on three key themes: preserving national values while embracing scientific progress, representing the UAE positively abroad, and fostering constructive engagement with diverse cultures.
Held under the overarching theme “The Emirati Family… A Shared National Responsibility,” this year’s councils aim to promote societal and family stability while reinforcing national, social, and security awareness. Inspired by the UAE’s leadership, the discussions emphasise strengthening social cohesion and fostering positive interaction among different segments of society.
At the Abu Dhabi session, participants delved into ways to safeguard Emirati identity and instil traditional values amid the country’s rapid modernisation. The Abu Dhabi Women’s Council underscored the importance of sustaining the UAE’s legacy of excellence and leadership by nurturing a strong national identity and honouring the heritage of past generations.
Meanwhile, at the Ministry of Interior Council in Dubai, speakers highlighted the need for enhanced national media efforts to promote Emirati values and traditions. Recommendations included the development of a multilingual digital platform to share Emirati culture with the country’s diverse residents and global audiences.
Across various emirates, discussions stressed the importance of maintaining strong family and social ties, preserving cultural heritage, and striking a balance between tradition and modernity. The councils also focused on fostering intergenerational connections and reinforcing shared responsibility in shaping a cohesive and forward-thinking Emirati society.
