Today's Edition
BATOOL GHAITH (ABU DHABI)
When UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan walked among families, residents and visitors at Dubai Mall on Monday, Emiratis said they felt a sense of calm.
His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed was accompanied by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, along with senior officials.
Strolling through one of the country’s busiest public spaces, greeting visitors and exchanging words with shoppers, His Highness’ presence carried meaning beyond protocol. UAE nationals described the moment as powerful and reassuring amid geopolitical developments.
“It gave us comfort, seeing His Highness the President walking among people, smiling and greeting families, it gave us the confidence that we are indeed on the safest land under the protection of the strongest leadership,” Rawda Al Kaabi told Aletihad.
Al Kaabi added that the visit carried particular resonance during the holy month of Ramadan.
“It reinforced a sense of calm and continuity — that the spirit of the month remains undisturbed, no matter what,” she said.
Fahad Al Megbali said the presence of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed in public conveyed a message to the world that the UAE’s leadership is on the ground with its people.
“It sent a powerful message to every person living in the country that there is nothing to worry about and that we are always safe,” Al Megbali told Aleithad.
For others, the symbolism felt personal.
“He is like a father to the nation. When a father is calm, the family feels calm, that is the feeling we had when we saw him walking and smiling, it made us all very happy and gave us a bigger sense of safety,” Fatima Al Mazroui said.
Al Mazroui added that few places in the world offer the same sense of stability, where people continue to go to work, meet for coffee or shop as usual, even during challenging times. She credited this to the country’s strong defence systems and leadership.
“May God bless our leadership and our country and keep us protected,” she added.
