Today's Edition
HALA AL KHAYYAT (ABU DHABI)
A Ramadan majlis organised by Aletihad News Center on Tuesday, marking Zayed Humanitarian Day, reaffirmed the enduring influence of the UAE Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, in the field of global humanitarianism. His legacy of generosity and support for those in need, regardless of background, has positioned him as a defining figure in promoting a culture of giving both within the UAE and beyond.
Titled "Values of Giving in the UAE: Lessons from Zayed in Humanitarian Work", the majlis hosted Dr. Hamdan Musallam Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) as the speaker, and was moderated by Dr. Hamad Al Kaabi, Chief Aletihad News Center Officer.
Dr. Al Kaabi noted that Al Mazrouei's participation reflected his significant contributions to humanitarian efforts and his as a symbol of the UAE's commitment to charitable work.
Discussions focused on Sheikh Zayed's legacy of supporting humanitarian initiatives, the UAE's role in advancing charitable work globally, and Sheikh Zayed's belief that humanitarian initiatives play a key role in fostering stronger communities. The majlis also explored ways to encourage future generations to sustain the tradition of giving through education and awareness.
Dr. Al Mazrouei highlighted Sheikh Zayed's unwavering commitment to humanitarianism, describing it as the cornerstone of the UAE's status as a global model of giving. He emphasised that Sheikh Zayed's generosity and giving reached the farthest corners of the globe, driven by the Founding Father's belief that true happiness came from uplifting others - a principle that guided his approach to both domestic and international aid.
Dr. Al Mazrouei pointed out that Sheikh Zayed never hesitated to help countries and people facing natural disasters or humanitarian crises, with the UAE being among the first countries to send assistance whenever crises arose.
A Legacy of Generosity
Dr. Al Mazrouei said that Sheikh Zayed generously provided aid without expecting anything in return, adding that his approach to humanitarian work extended beyond immediate relief to long-term development.
From the construction of hospitals and schools to direct financial aid for struggling families, Sheikh Zayed's initiatives reflected a deep understanding of the structural needs of communities, he said. Dr. Al Mazrouei added that Sheikh Zayed viewed education and healthcare as essential pillars for strengthening societies, improving lives, and empowering people to build better futures for themselves.
He also credited the late leader for embedding volunteerism and charitable work into the UAE's national identity, a legacy that continues today.
Sustaining Sheikh Zayed's Philosophy of Giving
Dr. Al Mazrouei noted that Sheikh Zayed's legacy is not only preserved but actively strengthened by the UAE's leadership and its people, who continue the path of goodness and giving established by the late Founding Father.
He added that, under the leadership of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and his brothers, the country continues to play a central role in international humanitarian aid. He also highlighted the nation's broader efforts in refugee support, medical aid, and international relief operations.
Dr. Al Mazrouei cited "Operation Gallant Knight 3" as an example of this ongoing commitment, a large-scale effort through which the UAE continues to provide relief and healthcare assistance to the people of Gaza.
Sheikh Zayed's vision of giving has become a defining aspect of life in the UAE, he explained, with both the government and society embracing a culture of solidarity and volunteerism. Dr. Al Mazrouei added that the UAE's approach to continuing Sheikh Zayed's humanitarian legacy goes beyond aid, focusing on sustainability and comprehensive development to ensure a better future for vulnerable communities.
He concluded by emphasising that the Year of Community reinforces the UAE's dedication to these values, reflecting a tradition of giving that has become a core moral foundation for the entire nation.
