Today's Edition
EHAB RIFAI (AL AIN)
In 53 years of service to the nation, Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Ruler’s Representative in Al Ain Region, dedicated himself to elevating the stature of Al Ain, ensuring comprehensive progress across all sectors.
Over a span of five decades, Al Ain City has witnessed comprehensive development all the while preserving its authentic traditions.
Under the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Al Ain-Dubai road was named Tahnoun Bin Mohammed Al Nahyan Road.
Al Ain City, an oasis located some 160km east of the capital Abu Dhabi, derived its name from the abundance of freshwater in the area. The city is still famous for its traditional irrigation system (falaj), some parts of which date back to 1000 BC.
The late Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, was instrumental in Al Ain’s development.
A close confidante of the UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan gained valuable experience accompanying the late Sheikh Zayed in numerous trips at home and abroad. These trips, coupled with the positions he held, equipped him to manage the affairs of the eastern region, particularly Al Ain.
The late Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, was among the group of men the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, placed in his absolute trust. He dedicated all the experiences he gained to serve the people of Al Ain and its affiliated areas.
Comprehensive Development
The late Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan ensured comprehensive development aimed at various aspects of life.
Over the years, Al Ain city has witnessed numerous housing projects that provided a decent living for Emirati families. Among these projects are the Suweihan and Al Saad residential projects located in Al Ain, which include the construction of 510 villas for citizens covering an area of approximately 2.1 million square metres.
Also, the Jebel Hafeet project covers an area of 453 hectares and includes 3,000 villas, blending traditional and modern architecture.
The Ain Al Fayda residential project covers an area of 375 hectares and includes 2000 villas built according to Andalusian design.
A Pedestrian-Friendly
CityAl Ain has transformed into a pedestrian-friendly city. Current projects pay special attention to the traffic flow in the city, replacing tunnels and roundabouts into modern intersections and equipping its roads with modern LED lighting systems.
The city has also begun implementing projects to enhance the efficiency of roads and revamp old neighborhoods that are about 45 years old.
Infrastructure Projects
Massive infrastructure development projects, pertaining to roads, tunnels, bridges and traffic signals, gave a renewed vigour to the city. These include 11 key road projects, construction of 10 tunnels and the conversion of 18 roundabouts into signal-controlled intersections.
Significant Progress in Education
Al Ain city has witnessed significant progress in education, both at university and pre-university level. The city witnessed the opening of several schools with exceptional facilities, providing a conducive educational environment.
Several major universities have been established in Al Ain city, standing in par with globally advanced academic centres. Among these is the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), the first comprehensive national university in the country. Established in 1976 by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAEU aspires to become a comprehensive, research-intensive university.
Founded in 2004, Al Ain University opened its doors to the first cohort in 2005 focusing on Engineering, Business, and Education, Humanities, and Social Sciences. It expanded its academic offerings to offer 22 undergraduate programmes on its campuses in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.
World-class Healthcare
Al Ain city has witnessed the implementation of numerous healthcare projects aimed at providing world-class healthcare and treatment services to residents. One of these projects is the new Al Ain Hospital, built on a construction area of 347 thousand square meters. It represents a true oasis of healing, designed according to the highest international standards, with unique natural and aesthetic specifications. The hospital combines the provision of the latest medical technologies with natural atmospheres that reflect the distinctive character of Al Ain.
Additionally, Al Ain city hosts Tawam Hospital, one of the most renowned government hospitals and the largest in the city. The hospital provides 509 beds and boasts a cadre of highly skilled doctors.
A Rich Legacy
The late Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, left behind an enduring legacy full of national achievements.
Since assuming his first position on September 11, 1966, when he was appointed by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, as President of the Agriculture Department and the Mayor of Al Ain, he held various leadership roles.
As the Ruler’s Representative in the Al Ain region, he demonstrated exceptional leadership, steering the city towards development. He devoted all his efforts to serving the citizens and residents of Al Ain and surrounding areas.
Through his determination and earnest efforts, the late Sheikh Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan guided Al Ain’s transformation into a modern city all the while keenly preserving its splendid greenery.
