Sheikh Zayed memorial to showcase his legacy in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi - Details of the public artwork will not be officially revealed until the inauguration.

The Ministry of Presidential Affairs has announced plans to establish a permanent tribute to the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the nation.
The memorial will be officially opened in 2018 to coincide with the Year of Zayed declared by the President, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
The under-construction memorial will be located at the intersection of 1st and 2nd Street alongside the Corniche in the Capital, spanning an area of 3.3 hectares. Its centrepiece will be a monumental public artwork surrounded by a public plaza with local landscaping.
Details of the public artwork will not be officially revealed until the memorial's inauguration in 2018.
Set to attract all residents, visitors and tourists from all over the world, the memorial will explore Sheikh Zayed's legacy and show how he paved the way for current and future generations to contribute to their nation's progress and prosperity.
The memorial will be an inspirational destination that takes visitors on a journey capturing his life, his goodness, compassion, humanitarianism, wisdom and vision for the future. It will showcase his dedication to the UAE and its people, promoting the values of tolerance, co-existence, and equality.
On this national occasion, Ahmed Juma Al Za'abi, Deputy Minister for Presidential Affairs, praised the legacy of Sheikh Zayed across all areas, including the political, economic, social and humanitarian sectors.
Al Za'abi said that the late Sheikh Zayed's legacy of care for his homeland and the world is proof of the unique qualities he possessed, including love, goodness, giving, and standing by all those in need. "It is our duty as a nation and our future generation's obligation to recognise and remember Sheikh Zayed as a symbol of humanity and unity for generations on end," he noted.
"This memorial is a strong testament to Sheikh Zayed's legacy, and as per the directives of the wise leadership, is an affirmative recognition of the founding ruler's pioneering leadership that created a clear roadmap to build and strengthen our nation."

• Abu Dhabi