In a landmark address commemorating the UAE’s 54th National Day, President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan articulated a compelling vision balancing technological advancement with cultural preservation. Speaking during the Eid Al Etihad celebrations, the leader emphasized that safeguarding national identity, values, and the Arabic language constitutes a fundamental national priority requiring collective societal effort.
The President underscored the critical role of educational and cultural institutions in fostering moral development among youth. “While we want our youth to be fully engaged in the global march of scientific progress,” he stated, “we also want them to remain firmly grounded in their values, ethics, and national identity. A nation without identity has neither present nor future.”
Sheikh Mohamed positioned citizens as both the foundation and ultimate beneficiaries of development, highlighting enhanced public participation as essential to national progress. The address marked December 2nd as a historic milestone representing unity and intergenerational inspiration across the Emirates.
The leadership announced significant policy directions, with 2025 designated as the Year of the Community and 2026 as the Year of the Family. The President characterized family strengthening and fertility rate enhancement as national security priorities, describing families as “the first school of life and cornerstone of social development.”
Educational advancement received particular emphasis, with the UAE committed to refining human capital development through global-standard education systems, scientific research, and lifelong learning initiatives. The President encouraged youth to responsibly leverage artificial intelligence and modern technologies while maintaining focus on nationally aligned academic disciplines.
Environmental sustainability emerged as another key pillar, with reaffirmed commitment to achieving climate neutrality by 2050 through international cooperation and renewable energy investment. The address concluded with reaffirmations of the UAE’s global peacebuilding efforts and inclusive vision welcoming all contributors to national development within frameworks of tolerance and rule of law.