Sheikh Zayed, An Eternal Legacy (book)

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Sheikh Zayed, An Eternal Legacy (book) by Myrna Ayad. Foreword by His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Handcrafted in a luxurious silk clamshell case. 184 pages, 150+ illustrations. Brand new, in English. 2021. Assouline Publisher. Size: W 14 x L 17 x D 2.95 inches. Weight: 20 lbs. The Ultimate Collection. Shipping within 2 weeks.

In 1968, the coastal United Arab Emirates entered a phase of unprecedented vulnerability: the British, who had protected them for 150 years, suddenly announced their intention to withdraw from the region. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, ruler of Abu Dhabi, knew there was only one solution: to unite under one nation. In December 1971, after a series of negotiations, the United Arab Emirates was born and its founding father, Sheikh Zayed, was appointed its first president.

Under Sheikh Zayed’s leadership, the fledgling UAE became a shining example of economic, social and political progress in the Middle East. But throughout his reign, Sheikh Zayed was as dedicated to the welfare of his people as he was to the progress of his country. His benevolence, humility and tolerance were legendary, and he was widely revered as a father figure to all. Sheikh Zayed’s deep concern for his people extended to the environment, as he helped transform the Arabian desert into an agricultural oasis. He also became known as an advocate for equality, championing women’s rights and preaching religious tolerance. A religious man himself, the teachings of Islam formed the core of his upbringing and shaped his approach to life and leadership.

In this compelling addition to the Ultimate series and Assouline’s first book on a notable Arab royal figure, Myrna Ayad examines Sheikh Zayed’s enduring legacy through the pillars that defined his life: as a father, a unifier, an environmentalist, a faithful man, and a modernist. The book brings Sheikh Zayed to life through archival photographs and exclusive interviews with politicians and family members who knew the ruler intimately, including His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation; His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Tolerance; Her Highness Sheikha Mariam bint Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the Salama bint Hamdan Al Nahyan Foundation and Sheikh Zayed’s granddaughter; His Excellency Dr. Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh, Chancellor of UAE University and Cultural Advisor to the President; and many more.

This year marks the extraordinary 50th anniversary of the UAE, Sheikh Zayed: An Eternal Legacy is a fitting and respectful ode not only to its creation, but also to the father of the UAE himself.

This incredible volume reveals that more than fifteen years after the end of his reign, Sheikh Zayed lives on through all the men and women who continue his work, guiding the UAE towards a bright and progressive future.

My father was the teacher from whom I learned every day, following in his footsteps, drawing inspiration from his maturity and genuine moral values, his patience and composure, and his insights on all subjects.
— Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan

Feel free to check out the additional photos at the top left, thank you!

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