The United Arab Emirates celebrated a significant milestone in its political history as His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, convened with current and former ministers who have served alongside him throughout his twenty-year tenure. The gathering, attended by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, commemorated the anniversary of Sheikh Mohammed’s assumption of the prime ministerial office on January 5, 2006.
President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed extended heartfelt congratulations to Sheikh Mohammed, recognizing his exceptional leadership that has positioned the UAE government as an exemplary developmental model centered on citizen welfare and future-oriented aspirations. The President expressed wishes for continued success in advancing the nation’s journey of achievement.
Reflecting on two decades of progress, Sheikh Mohammed articulated the nation’s remarkable transformation from regional leader to global powerhouse. “We were determined to ensure high quality of life, stability, and prosperity for the UAE and its people,” he stated. “Today, we rank at the forefront across multiple domains, effectively becoming a complete world within one nation.”
The Vice President specifically acknowledged key figures including Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his unwavering partnership, Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan at Interior, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan in foreign affairs, alongside Hamdan bin Mohammed in defense and Maktoum bin Mohammed in finance, characterizing them as components of an extraordinary team.
Ministerial attendees expressed profound pride in serving under Sheikh Mohammed’s guidance, describing him as a present and motivational leader who cultivates optimism and collaborative spirit. They attributed the nation’s accomplishments to his visionary leadership and innovative policies that have established global benchmarks in governmental efficiency.
The statistical legacy of these two decades reveals substantial governance activity: 72 ministers guided through nine cabinet formations and 13 reshuffles, 558 cabinet meetings producing nearly 16,000 resolutions, seven ministerial retreats, and 16 extraordinary meetings addressing critical national challenges.
This period witnessed comprehensive governmental transformation through strategic initiatives including UAE Vision 2021, UAE Centennial 2071, and We the UAE 2031. The administration modernized over 90% of the legal framework, implemented AI-powered legislative systems, and launched hundreds of national policies stimulating key sectors while enhancing quality of life.
Sheikh Mohammed expressed confidence in the nation’s continued ascent, stating: “I am optimistic the next two decades will bring prosperity, pride, and glory. The whole world will recognize the UAE as the premier global destination for living, working, investing, and visiting. Our most exceptional years still lie ahead.”