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'Adversity does not break us; it strengthens us': Sheikha Latifa on UAE resilience and unity
Sheikha Latifa emphasises that at the heart of the UAE’s vision is a simple yet clear priority: 'to ensure the highest possible quality of life for the people of the UAE'
- PUBLISHED: Tue 17 Mar 2026, 2:12 PM
[Editor's Note: Follow Khaleej Times live blog amid US-Israel-Iran war for the latest regional developments.]
As the UAE battles retaliatory attacks from the spillover of the Israel-US-Iran war, the country's leaders have moved swiftly to reassure residents and reinforce security, emphasising that the safety of citizens and residents remains a top priority.
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The UAE's President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan had addressed residents on March 7 following the recent Iranian attacks, affirming that authorities will fulfil their duty to defend the nation and its people.
“Pardon us if we did not meet expectations, but we are in a time of war. I promise you that we will fulfil our responsibility to protect you — our people and our families,” he said.
Sheikh Mohamed made the remarks during a visit to those wounded in the attacks. At the hospital, he was seen holding the hands of the injured and gently touching their heads, speaking with them and their families in a quiet moment of reassurance.
He added: “Know that the UAE’s skin is thick and its meat is bitter — no one can harm us. We will always stand responsible for our citizens and our second family, the residents.”
Building on this message of resilience and unity, Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, pens the powerful column 'In the Face of War, the UAE Stands for Continuity', reflecting on the UAE’s core values and its enduring commitment to coexistence.
She recalls that, as Emirati children in Dubai, it was natural to study alongside classmates from more than 100 nationalities, where diversity was simply part of everyday life. Differences in appearance, language, and culture were embraced without question, and friendships were formed in an environment defined by openness and shared experiences.
She notes that the attacks the UAE has witnessed in recent weeks stand in stark contrast to this model of tolerance and coexistence she grew up in.
Reflecting on her childhood, she explains that what once felt ordinary now stands out as something truly exceptional — a carefully nurtured environment of inclusion in a world increasingly marked by fear and division.
She said: "I recall listening to members of my parents’ generation speaking fluent Urdu, Hindi, and Persian, shifting seamlessly between languages depending on who they were speaking to. This was never presented as something extraordinary; it was courtesy, a sign of acceptance, and a willingness to meet others where they were."
Sheikha Latifa further added that openness and tolerance have long been at the heart of Emirati society, forming essential pillars of communities built on connection and mutual respect.
She reflects on the UAE’s journey, noting that life for earlier generations in the desert was far from easy. From its beginnings as a small settlement by Dubai Creek — sustained by fishing, trade and pearl diving — the emirate has grown into a global hub of commerce and culture. This transformation, she highlights, has shaped a society that understands the values of 'hope, loss, and the need to rebuild from the ground up'.
She said, "We do not take for granted how far we have come, because we understand what it took, and we know what it will continue to take to safeguard our way of life and advance further. Because of our history, we have a knack for thriving in challenges; adversity does not break us; it strengthens us."
Turning to what's happening at the moment in the UAE and wider region, Sheikha Latifa highlights that over the past two weeks, the Arab Gulf and beyond have faced what she describes as a “barrage of reckless and blatantly hostile attacks” involving Iranian missiles and armed drones.
She notes that the UAE has 'borne the brunt' of these strikes, responding with a highly precise defence system that has intercepted more than 95 per cent of incoming threats.
In doing so, she affirms, the UAE has demonstrated not only strong governance, a dynamic business environment and a model of coexistence, but also some of the world’s most advanced air defence and emergency response capabilities.
Sheikha Latifa further emphasises that at the heart of the UAE’s vision is a simple yet clear priority: 'to ensure the highest possible quality of life for the people of the UAE.'
She explains that this includes safeguarding safety and security, expanding access to opportunities, and providing quality education and healthcare — all grounded in respect for human dignity.
She adds that leadership in the UAE is 'deeply personal', rooted in trust and a strong sense of duty. The country’s leaders, she notes, are guided by a profound responsibility toward the well-being and prosperity of the nation and its people, a commitment that is met with trust, respect and high regard from the public.
In her words, Sheikha Latifa explains that 'it is now clear that one of the core reasons the UAE is receiving the majority of Iran’s egregious attacks is because it presents the world with a model of harmony that stands in stark contrast to the realities of our attackers and their ideologies, which thrive on the region’s chaos.'
She notes that the UAE has become a model of tolerance, where nearly 200 nationalities live and flourish in a culture of mutual respect and strong dedication to human dignity. She adds that individual achievements contribute to the collective good, and the success of one nation in the region can generate opportunities and momentum for its neighbours.
Sheikha Latifa says what has impressed her most since the conflict began is the resilience of the Emirati people and the solidarity of the UAE’s residents. She highlights the collective endurance and the genuine support shown for the nation’s leadership, describing it as a powerful expression of belonging.
She notes that 'such sentiments were conveyed by people who have found safety, security, and space to build meaningful lives in this country.'
Sheikha Latifa also reflected on a recent interview with the UAE's President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, noting his unwavering conviction that the UAE will emerge stronger from this challenge.
She said his words reflect a core aspect of the nation’s character: 'We have always chosen wisdom over impulse, and dialogue over escalation.'
Sheikha Latifa said that putting the safety of the people and the stability of the nation first is 'not a concession but a responsibility.'
She stresses that true strength lies in staying composed under provocation and facing challenges with steadfast resilience.
Sheikha Latifa finally concludes by sharing a message of resolve, vowing that the UAE will come out stronger: "In the UAE and in Dubai, we do not claim perfection; we are continually learning. What defines us is our commitment and daily effort to refine our systems, strengthen our institutions, and make decisions that serve the people who place their trust in us. We will come out of this challenge stronger and move forward with confidence, continuing to develop and strengthen what we have created. We will unite and build a better future, despite the forces that seek to divide and destroy our present."
