'He had an eye for people': Dubai Ruler pens poignant tribute to father Sheikh Rashid

As the UAE celebrates Father's Day on Saturday, June 21, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, penned a poignant tribute to his father the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum.

Sheikh Mohammed reflected about his father's numerous qualities like "simple living, self-restraint" and "love for family" and how deeply he was shaped by his character.

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The Dubai Ruler, who has authored many books, quoted from his upcoming literary endeavour 'Life Taught Me,' where he has dedicated an entire chapter to his father. The book will be published in the coming months.

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In the chapter, titled 'May God Have Mercy on My Father,' Sheikh Mohammed says: "The more I reflect on my father’s wisdom, insight, life, and legacy, the more I realise how much I learned from him — how deeply I was shaped by his character.

"I learned from him how to carry oneself with dignity — naturally, without pretense — and to be tolerant toward those who are ignorant, kind and gracious with everyone."

Sheikh Mohammed touched upon how Sheikh Rashid taught him to love his family, giving readers a rare glimpse into the father-son relationship.

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"He taught me to love my family, my relatives, and my siblings, and to stay close to my sisters — and I still do," the Dubai Ruler wrote.

"His very presence commanded respect," Sheikh Mohammed added.

Leadership qualities

Sheikh Mohammed also spoke about the leadership qualities that he inherited from his father.

"He taught me how to accept criticism, to have confidence in myself, and to balance kindness with people and the gravitas and firmness that my position requires," he reflected.

"He never judged matters by first impressions. Instead, he pondered, reflected, consulted, and asked questions. I learned from him to listen carefully to those with sound judgment and wise minds.

"He had an eye for people — especially the youth. He supported those with entrepreneurial talents and entrusted administrative tasks to those with capability.

He had foresight and was thorough in his thinking. He disliked haste, but once he made a decision, he acted without hesitation, doubt, or confusion," he added.

Towards the end of the tribute, Sheikh Mohammed concludes with the words: "May God have mercy on my father."