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Eid Al Etihad 2025: UAE President highlights preserving Arabic language, national identity
'While we want our youth to be fully engaged in the global march of progress, we also want them to remain firmly grounded in their values,' said Sheikh Mohamed
As the UAE celebrates its 54th National Day, President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan highlighted the central role of future generations in the nation’s journey toward progress and innovation.
In his address marking the 54th Eid Al Etihad, Sheikh Mohamed highlighted the importance of preserving the UAE’s national identity, values, and the Arabic language. He noted that safeguarding these principles is a shared responsibility of all members of society and key institutions, particularly those focused on education, culture, and social development.
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"Preserving our national identity, values, ethics, and Arabic language is a key national priority and an essential responsibility that must be upheld by every member of society. It is particularly important for institutions entrusted with education, cultural development, and social upbringing to take the lead in this effort. I call on these institutions to place the moral and ethical development of our youth at the forefront of their mission," he said.
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“While we want our youth to be fully engaged in the global march of scientific and technological progress, we also want them to remain firmly grounded in their values, ethics, and national identity. A nation without identity has neither a present nor a future. Upholding our identity is a source of strength, self-confidence, and pride in who we are," he said.
Sheikh Mohamed emphasised that the UAE’s vision, both now and for the future, places people at the centre. Citizens are not only the foundation of development but also its creators and ultimate goal.
“Enhancing citizen participation in driving the nation's journey towards the future is a fundamental priority,” he said, stressing that empowering Emirati talent in both government and private sectors is essential to sustaining the country’s long-term progress.
A defining day in UAE history
Marking December 2 as a defining day in UAE history, Sheikh Mohamed described it as a moment of pride, unity, and inspiration across generations.
Eid Al Etihad, he said, is not just a celebration of the nation’s founding but also an opportunity to reflect, draw lessons, and renew commitment to building a bright future. "We renew our pledge — before God, to ourselves, and to our people — to continue working with sincerity and dedication to ensure that the UAE remains, just as the late Sheikh Zayed envisioned, a nation defined by excellence, progress, and a far-reaching sense of purpose."
Family and community at the heart of development
Sheikh Mohamed highlighted the central role of families and communities in the nation’s growth. The UAE has established the Ministry of Family and expanded the role of the Ministry of Community Empowerment. The year 2025 has been declared the Year of the Community, and 2026 will be dedicated as the Year of the Family.
"Strengthening families, supporting their growth, empowering them, and increasing fertility rates are national priorities that lie at the core of our broader concept of national security. The future of the nation begins with the family," the UAE President stressed.
He added that the family is the first school of life, a cornerstone of social development, and the first line of defence against values that contradict Emirati culture and traditions.
Investing in youth and education
Recognising that educated and capable citizens are the drivers of national development, the UAE President stressed that investing in youth remains a top priority. The UAE continues to refine its education systems to meet global standards, focusing on human capital development, scientific research, talent nurturing, and lifelong learning.
The UAE continues to advance rapidly in science, technology, and artificial intelligence to achieve sustainable development. Sheikh Mohamed encouraged youth to responsibly leverage AI and modern technology, focusing on academic and scientific disciplines aligned with national priorities.
“Sustainability is a key pillar of development. Protecting the environment and preserving resources are core objectives, and the UAE continues to work with international partners to address environmental challenges and invest in renewable energy,” he said, reaffirming the country’s commitment to achieving climate neutrality by 2050.
Building partnerships worldwide
Sheikh Mohamed highlighted the UAE’s global role, including building economic partnerships and supporting multilateral cooperation.
“The UAE will maintain its steadfast support for all efforts to promote peace, stability, and cooperation around the world, and to resolve regional and international conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy. It firmly believes this is the path to realising the aspirations of nations for development and prosperity,” he said.
He also reaffirmed the UAE’s inclusive vision: “The UAE welcomes all who consider it their home and who contribute through their efforts and ideas to its journey of progress. The country opens its heart and mind to everyone who wishes to be part of our story of success and ambition for a better, more advanced, and more prosperous future, within a framework of tolerance and respect for the rule of law."
He concluded by congratulating the rulers, crown princes, deputy rulers, and citizens, praying for the nation’s continued growth and prosperity: "I pray that God continues to protect our nation and bless it with lasting dignity, progress, and prosperity. I wish you all continued wellbeing and success. With God’s will, the future will be even brighter through our dedication, ambition, and unity."
Elizabeth Gonzales
Elizabeth Gonzales is a Digital Journalist who loves writing about the expat life — and ways to make the most of it. When she's not looking for new hacks to share with readers, you may find her giving them a real laugh at one of her stand-up comic events.
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