January 7 Set as Zayed the Founder Day in New UAE Occasion
The UAE will officially observe January 7 as Zayed the Founder Day starting next year, establishing a new annual national occasion dedicated to the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan announced the mandate, framing the date as a focal point for transforming the Founding Father’s wisdom into action across communities and institutions.
“The UAE’s Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, forever remains in the hearts of the people of the UAE,” the President stated, highlighting his role in establishing the Union, laying its foundations, and nurturing its development through service to humanity.
Scheduled deliberately at the beginning of the calendar year, January 7 coincides with the resumption of academic terms and business cycles. The timing provides schools, workplaces, and public institutions with a unified national moment to reconnect with the foundational values of the country and carry them forward.
The initiative is anchored by The Founder’s Office, which holds the mandate to guide projects that preserve and enrich understanding of the late leader’s legacy. Each year, the occasion will coordinate activities spanning education, culture, research, public engagement, and community participation. While centered on January 7, related programming and initiatives will extend throughout the year, bringing together institutions, schools, and families.
Authorities designed the observance to be fully inclusive and accessible to people of all ages, nationalities, and backgrounds, reflecting the core principle that cooperation and mutual respect form the foundation of a stable society.
Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, welcomed the declaration, noting that ensuring the Founding Father’s approach remains alive in the hearts of younger generations stands as a primary tribute to his leadership.
