The Ideal Successor to a Noble Predecessor Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed, born on September 7, 1948, into a respected family in Al Ain, emerged as a true leader destined for greatness. The son of a nobleman, his remarkable journey began with early education in Al Ain and culminated in his graduation from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. With a sound mind and visionary spirit, he was unquestionably the best successor to the illustrious legacy of his forebears. Endowed with generosity, strong convictions, and the courage to uphold justice, he dedicated himself to carrying forward the noble work of his predecessors while aspiring to enhance their achievements.
A Destiny of Early Responsibility Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan remained closely connected to his father during the latter's tenure as the Representative of the Ruler of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi in Al Ain city and the Eastern Area. At the age of 21, Sheikh Khalifa was appointed as the Crown Prince, a decision warmly embraced by the Al Nahyan family, given his exceptional qualities and characteristics. One of the most significant lessons he imbibed from his father was patience, tolerance, and the wisdom of proceeding deliberately to prevent issues.
In 1969, upon becoming the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Khalifa played a pivotal role in advancing the formation of the United Arab Emirates and the establishment of the federal state. He was deeply involved in the construction of the federal nation. His journey began with the Defense Department in Abu Dhabi on February 2, 1969, and by July 1, 1971, he was also heading the Defense and Finance departments while serving as the Prime Minister of Abu Dhabi.
The Rise of the Federal State With the formation of the Union state on December 2, 1971, and the attainment of independence, Sheikh Khalifa's responsibilities expanded as he assumed the role of Federal Deputy Prime Minister. In 1974, he took the reins as the Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, ushering in significant transformations that turned Abu Dhabi into a modern city. His establishment of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority in 1976 and his role as Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Army Forces demonstrated his unwavering commitment to progress.
In 1981, the Abu Dhabi Department of Social Services was established under his guidance, followed by the creation of the Private Loans Authority in 1991. After his father's passing in November 2004, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan was elected as President on November 3, 2004, following his father's extensive presidential tenure from 1971 to 2004. His presidency was marked by a focus on the development of the oil and gas sector, as well as a keen interest in sports, particularly football.
He was re-elected as President in 2009 and successfully steered the country towards growth and prosperity. His legacy included the launch of several impactful projects, such as the Khalifa Excellence Award, Khalifa Award for Education, the Debt Settlement Fund, and the Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation.
Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan passed away on May 13, 2022.