1918–2004
Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Arabic: زايد بن سلطان آل نهيان
Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan · 阿联酋
1918–2004, founding president of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, known as the "Father of the Nation".
From 1946 he served as the Ruler of Abu Dhabi's representative in the Eastern Region (Al Ain), devoting himself to Al Ain's development; in 1966 he succeeded as Ruler of Abu Dhabi. After Britain announced its withdrawal from east of Suez in 1968, he agreed with Dubai's Ruler Rashid to form a federation; on 2 December 1971 the United Arab Emirates was founded and he became its first president until his death in 2004.
People & stories
Places in their life
Birthplace, according to the UAE government portal, Al Ain (another account says Abu Dhabi, uncertain); places of activity and burial association Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.
People
Cultural significance
Creator of the UAE federation and symbol of unity; his title "Father of the Nation" and the federation narrative remain at the core of UAE national identity today.
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