Fantabulous progress: Business community hails wise leadership as UAE marks 51st National Day
Al Dhafra Region municipality has decorated the main streets to celebrate the 51st UAE National Day on Thursday. WAM
Inayat-ur-Rahman, Business Editor
Today the UAE is celebrating its 51st National Day. Bold decisions and an ambitious economic vision have boosted the competitiveness landscape of the nation, transforming the UAE into a key global investment destination. The country has made remarkable progress in five decades. Today on this auspicious occasion Gulf Today shares the candid views of the business leaders, who are upbeat about the economic progression of this great country.
Dr Majed Al Khemeiri, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Administrative and Financial Affairs, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi said: As this year marks 51 years since the establishment of the Emirates, we celebrate our nation’s remarkable achievements over the last five decades. His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan and our wise leadership have continued to lead the country’s economic growth and prosperity under the vision of our founding father, His Highness Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The UAE has made tremendous strides, and as a top higher education institution, we take pride in contributing to the advancement of the nation.
At Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, we are committed to enhancing students’ knowledge, skills abilities and unlocking their full potential, in turn transforming them into high caliber professionals that contribute to the UAE’s economic development and human capital development.” Al Khemeiri added.
Rizwan Sajan, Founder and Chairman of Danube Group, said: In a world dominated by crises, conflicts and pandemics, the UAE has created the safest and the best socio-political and economic environment that is helping global communities to come, invest, live, work and do business. The 51st UAE National Day comes at a time when the whole world has realized how the country’s leadership has provided its leadership in managing multiple regional and international crises – that now reinforces the country’s position as the safest place to live, work and do business in the world.
In the latest report, the International Monetary Fund said that the UAE will record 6 per cent growth in its Gross Domestic Product, up from 3.8 per cent last year – that makes the UAE one of the fastest-growing economies in the world this year – at a time when the rest of the world is grappling to tackle recession. Last year, more than Dhs300 billion ($81.75 billion) was invested in Dubai’s real estate sector alone – the highest in the history of recorded land and property transaction in the emirate – in a year when the world was grappling with COVID-19 pandemic. These facts say a lot about the vision and the dynamism of the leadership of the UAE.
Our continuous success – among millions of expatriate businessmen, entrepreneurs and professionals – is a living testimony to this. So, the citizens and residents of the UAE have now more reasons to celebrate the 51st UAE National Day. The UAE is one of the most successful countries in the world, which has changed the socio-political and economic landscape in the last 51 years from a collection of small ‘settlements’ and turned it into a modern, vibrant and high-growth country in the world.
What most countries could not achieve in 100 years, the UAE has done in the last 51 years, thanks to the country’s dynamic and visionary leadership – that has created the most enabling environment for people to grow and generate wealth. So, the people of the UAE have more reasons to celebrate the success of the country in the National Day. It is a day worth celebrating with our best of abilities.
I take this opportunity to congratulate the UAE’s visionary leadership and its tolerant and the most hospitable citizens – who embraced us, the foreigners to make it feel like our home. Thank you, UAE!
George Saad, CEO of Al Zorah, said: We as citizens and residents of the UAE feel great delight in being able to experience UAE National Day 2022. Today, we celebrate our glorious nation, whose leadership continue to set the global standards in honesty, freedom, dedication, and bravery, and who work tirelessly to ensure achievement of ambitious goals for the betterment of the nation. We continue to support the Government of the UAE and its institutions on paving the way for everlasting successes in the fields of humanitarianism, philanthropy, technology, healthcare, business, tourism, and more.
He added: We in the UAE take pride in what the UAE has accomplished thus far in our magnificent history, in large part thanks to the vision and insight of the Rulers of the Emirates, led by President His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan. We are excited to see what the bright future of our nation has to offer, and what marvellous achievements we will celebrate next time.
Ibrahim Al Houti, CEO of Osool Services at Sharjah Asset Management Company, said: The 51st UAE National Day is a celebration of a national journey full of achievements, justice, selflessness, and strength achieved by the UAE thus far in our magnificent history. It is an opportunity for reflection, through which we renew our loyalty and support to our wise leadership, which we are eternally blessed to have, and that has worked endlessly to create a better future for the nation and its citizens and residents. We are honoured to stand behind our great leadership, to help the UAE become a beacon of light and guidance, and a mark of success on the global map.
Al Houti added: Today, we joyously celebrate the 51st National Day, commemorating the UAE on entering a new phase of sustainable development with the launch of ‘We The UAE 2031’. The new vision and national plan will see the UAE through the next decade and for the next fifty years, achieve the impossible in all fields of education, business, technology, healthcare, philanthropy, sustainability, and more. We look forward to continuing our support for our grand nation and its leadership, to continue working on elevating our status regionally and on the global scale.
Ayman Ashor, Cluster General Manager, Al Bandar Rotana and Arjaan by Rotana: On behalf of our properties, I would like to extend my warm greetings to our visionary Rulers on the occasion of 51st UAE National Day.
Ashor, a veteran hotelier, who was recently recognised among the top 100 GMs in the region, added that he is feeling proud to be part of this nationwide celebration as the UAE has achieved quite a feat in just a short span of time.
This is an exciting time for all of us – both locals and expats – as we are presented with a bounty of opportunities and enjoy high standards of living. We are all thankful to our leaders for making all these happen and we are definitely looking forward to a brighter future ahead.
We are very proud of our hotel performance for the first half of the year, and we are positive that we can keep the momentum till the end of the year.
I wish all residents of the UAE a very happy National Day and another glorious year full of unity, stability and growth.
Iftikhar Hamdani, Area General Manager at Bahi Ajman Palace Hotel & Coral Beach Resort Sharjah, said: On the occasion of 51st UAE National Day, we extend our most heartfelt wishes and congratulates the UAE leaders. Being in the hospitality industry of the Emirate, the flourishing confidence of tourists brought by the UAE’s standing as a safe, sustainable and distinguished travel destination achieved positive results in our industry. We highly appreciate the UAE’s enduring support towards sustainable tourism as it creates great factor that influence tourists’ destination choice. Again, we wish UAE a continued prosperity towards the next more years to come.
Horst Walther-Jones, General Manager at Rixos Bab Al Bahr said: Rixos Bab Al Bahr always celebrates the UAE’s National Day with great fervour. We are delighted to participate in, and host the festivities on 3rd of December, marking the unification of the six Emirates. This year we will feature a vast variety of workshops showcasing traditional Emirati arts and crafts highlighting the nation’s seafaring heritage.
The UAE has always been a country of opportunity thanks to its founding fathers. We are proud to join the nation in celebrating its great development, heritage and success. Rixos BAB Al Bahr wishes to extend its congratulations to all people of the UAE and its wise leadership who have shaped the future for us all. Happy 51st National Day!
Dr Thumbay Moideen, founder president, Thumbay Group, said: At Thumbay Group, we are celebrating UAE’s 51st National Day with great honour and pride. As a businessman who has spent a quarter century of his life with the family in this beautiful country, we remain consistently aligned to the Vision of Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan to continue serving this country that stands tall on the global stage in all key areas of economic development – infrastructure, health and safety, investments, education, leisure and tourism. Thumbay Group has completed 25 years and grown from Gulf Medical University in Ajman to a leading business conglomerate, with successful core business ventures in education, healthcare delivery and wellness which is directly related to the community. We are inspired by the country’s leadership, vision and mission, who have continuously raised the bar for development across every sector and are honored to have developed alongside the country. On the occasion of the 51st National Day, we renew our commitment and promise to continue delivering world-class, integrated services for the community of UAE.
Akbar Moideen Thumbay, Vice President-Healthcare Division, Thumbay Group, said: As the country marks its 51st UAE National Day, we are grateful to our progressive leadership and government who have spearheaded a culture of innovation that has been adopted through every business industry including healthcare. As a healthcare organization that started its journey more than two decades ago in UAE, we at Thumbay Group look towards the future of this country, we stand aligned with UAE “Vision 2031” and pledge to push forth on our commitment towards building a healthier nation through affordable, accessible, quality healthcare for all.
Dr Ram Buxani, Chairman, ITL Cosmos Group, said: On the occasion of the 51st UAE National Day, I extend my hearty congratulations to the leaders and the people of the country. This young nation, home to over 200 nationalities, has achieved exceptional achievements in such a short span of time. Upholding the values of tolerance, respect and kindness that makes everyone to the country feel at home, the UAE has pushed the frontiers in leveraging the power of advanced technology and ensuring sustainable progress. The nation is on course to marking impressive achievements that will further underline its position as a beacon of hope, positivity and can-do attitude that inspires the world.
Kamal Vachani, Group Director and Partner at Al Maya Group, said: I would like to extend my heartiest congratulations to the country’s visionary leadership.
The UAE an example of Coexistence and tolerance with the home of more than 200 nationalities, and we all call it our second home. As a long-time resident and one of the leading business groups in the UAE, we are witnessing the UAE’s approach towards new areas of development, science and technology, renewable green energy and emerging as a soft power on world map.
Al Maya is actively celebrating the UAE National Day celebrations at our outlets across the UAE, added Vachani.
Al Maya Supermarket is one of the leading and trusted supermarket chains in the UAE, with multi-format stores serving a sizeable number of customers for more than 40 years, enjoying a significant share of the UAE retail market.
Soham Shah, CEO of Selfdrive, said: “The 51st UAE National Day is an important milestone for the UAE. On this momentous occasion, we at Selfdrive.ae would like to extend our heartfelt greetings to the visionary leadership of the UAE for giving us an opportunity to call this place our home. Over the years, the UAE has transformed into a global leader, setting benchmarks for varied industries. The country has been a brilliant example of great vision executed aptly to create a sustained economy that offers great opportunities to people from all over the world. As a homegrown organisation, Selfdrive.ae works in alignment with the vison of the UAE rulers and have grown from strength to strength to be a market leader in our industry. The UAE not only serves as a great platform to build a robust business ecosystem but is also a home ground for companies like us to scale technologies to accelerate our business. On this momentous occasion, we would like to wish all our customers, stakeholders, partners, and the entire community a happy National Day and hope they celebrate the spirit of diversity and unity that binds us all together.
Shehbaz Shaikh, Chief Retail Officer, REDTAG, said Today, the UAE is the byword for ‘tallest’, ‘highest’ and ‘largest’ — superlatives that came not by attempting the achievable but by achieving the impossible. That pursuit of excellence will lead us to greater glory in the ‘next 50’. Though the economic forecast alludes to growth for the foreseeable future, my cause for optimism also stems from the progressive approach of the leaders. They have formulated a clear-cut roadmap for the ‘next 50’, focusing on creating a diversified economy underpinned by knowledge and innovation.
On the 51st UAE National Day, as we embark on a new growth cycle, I’d like to, on behalf of the entire REDTAG family, give best wishes to the leaders and everyone in this wonderful country. I’d like to reaffirm our commitment to nation-building through value-centric offerings, employment opportunities, and ethical business practices. Together, let’s elevate the reputation of the UAE, the place that has given wings to our dreams and a sanctuary for our loved ones — a home away from home. Happy National Day.”
Saeed Al Suwaidi, Managing Director of Abu Dhabi Distribution Company, said: “Half a century ago, seven emirates came together to form a nation driven by a commitment towards progress and innovation. Guided by the vision of the UAE’s exceptional leadership, the country has made great strides in laying the foundation to ensure a safe, secure and prosperous tomorrow for all citizens and residents. On National Day, Abu Dhabi Distribution Company congratulates our wise leadership and the people of the UAE. We will continue to build on our many achievements, promoting excellence and innovation to ensure a sustainable future for all.”
Shahram Shamsaee, CEO of Merex Investment, said: The 51st UAE National Day ignites a sense of pride and belonging in the UAE. At Merex Investment, we are committed to deliver unparalleled experiences in Dubai and we are delighted to celebrate this year’s national day to highlight our dedication to this country’s leadership and their goals when it comes to the community’s prosperity.”
We aim to continue re-imagining the way residents and tourists experience the city and re-structure methods for how urban spaces are designed. This year’s national day marks a continuation of our efforts in creating a sustainable, smart and clean destinations shaping them in becoming joyful places for our visitors to contribute to the leadership’s vision to make our nation the best place to live in.”
Zoltan Rendes, Partner and Chief Marketing Officer, SunMoney Solar Group, said: “We are in the midst of an energy revolution in our fight against climate change, and the UAE has set out a clear vision for the future. On the occasion of UAE National Day, we celebrate the incredible leadership and determination of the United Arab Emirates to become more carbon conscious. Through a concerted effort to expand solar energy infrastructure, the UAE is making huge strides today. We are proud to be part of this journey and applaud their commitment to a cleaner future! At SunMoney Solar Group, we are enabling this transition through the launch of our innovative solar energy investment solutions.
We believe that every single home, business and organization in the UAE has the power to be part of this energy revolution and play their role in helping create a greener future. By providing access to affordable solar technology investments, we are making it easier for everyone to go green. Here’s to many more years of progress!”
Pramod Sharda, CEO, IceWarp Middle East & India: On the joyous occasion of UAE National Day, we would like to extend our sincerest congratulations and appreciation for the leadership of this great nation. The UAE has achieved remarkable progress in creating a safe, digitally-focused society that is paving the way for making people’s lives easier and more efficient. At IceWarp, we understand the importance of digital infrastructure in driving a nation’s growth and development. Digital transformation is essential for businesses to be successful and remain competitive in the ever-evolving global environment. Digital technologies are no longer just an operational tool; they have become a game-changer that empowers companies to break boundaries and expand their reach. We appreciate the UAE government’s commitment to making this digital transformation possible by providing its citizens and residents with access to advanced technology tools and encouraging the adoption of the same.
At the very heart of digital solutions are emails and we look forward to enabling all sizes of enterprises in the UAE to actively support the rapid growth of the nation and the region as well. We look forward to continuing to be part of this progressive journey as it moves towards creating an even brighter future for all.”
Rodrigo Campos, COO, Hyke, said: At Hyke, we are honoured to have the opportunity to digitally enable and empower the businesses of the United Arab Emirates, who have contributed to the development of the digital economy and have been a key driver in the growth of the region’s digital distribution market. Celebrating UAE’s National Day is a great opportunity to reflect on economic progress and prosperity. This economic growth has empowered national companies to reach new markets with their products. We are proud that our e-commerce B2B platform, Hyke, has played an integral role in facilitating digital distribution for many of these traditional businesses, enabling them to access new customers and extend their reach beyond what was possible for them before.
We believe in harnessing the power of technology to create economic opportunities for all stakeholders involved in digital distribution: from suppliers and shippers to retailers and consumers. As the digital economy continues to evolve, we must continue to broaden the reach of our services to the wider region and beyond. We are grateful for the support and encouragement towards digital progress by the thoughtful leadership of the country.
Roberto d’Ambrosio, CEO, Axiory Global, said: On the occasion of UAE National Day, we at Axiory Global would like to express our appreciation for the country’s outstanding progress in fostering an environment for economic growth. The leadership of the United Arab Emirates has shown unique foresight and commitment towards creating a more efficient and transparent system for investors, both internal and FDIs, setting a high benchmark in the region and globally. I am, personally and on behalf of the organization I lead, proud and grateful for the opportunity to be part of the UAE’s growth and efforts to pursue the path of innovation and digitalization. Digitalisation has helped open up previously unreachable markets for investors, offering them greater opportunities to diversify their investments. This has sparked a wave of economic growth across the country, leading to increased foreign direct investment and improved national economy performance.
The United Arab Emirates is now at the forefront of global economic development - a shining example of what can be achieved when governments nurture an enabling environment that encourages innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship. We celebrate this milestone alongside Emirati citizens and salute them for their contributions towards building an inclusive society where everyone can reach their full potential, both in economic and social terms.
Yousuf Fakhruddin, CEO, Fakhruddin Properties, said: On this special occasion of UAE National Day, I would like to celebrate the amazing progress that the nation has made towards environmental sustainability. The leadership of this country has shown great vision and determination in creating a more sustainable future for all its citizens by embracing green architecture practices. We are thankful for their steadfast dedication and commitment towards creating a sustainable future, paving the way for an eco-friendly tomorrow. At Fakhruddin Properties, we are proud to contribute to this journey of sustainable development. All our projects are rooted in the principles of environmental sustainability, with each project carefully crafted and designed to minimize its impact on the environment. Our aim is to create a future where innovative solutions help make an environmentally conscious lifestyle more achievable. To that end, we constantly emphasize on adopting clean, responsible practices that reduce our carbon footprint while still delivering all the luxurious amenities expected from modern living spaces.
As we celebrate UAE National Day together, we hopeful that continued efforts towards environment conservation will bring about more growth, progress and prosperity for the nation. Let us all join together in honouring our united strength as a nation and continue to drive the change towards a greener, more sustainable future.”
Usman Alam, Partner Assurance AthGadlang, said: As the UAE celebrates its 51st National Day, I wish my fellow Emirati nationals a blessed National Day.
For me, UAE is a wonderland carved compassionately by its founding fathers, who invested in developing human capital from the early days.
Despite being a young nation, UAE today shines on top across various global indexes and is a leader in healthcare, trade, business, education, culture, and futuristic technology.
I see the UAE as a country that fosters human advancement, preserves dignity, and offers an environment where people enjoy security and prosperity.
Yasir Gadit. Partner Advisory AthGadlang, said: I would like to congratulate all Emirati nationals on the 51st National Day.
The grandeur and progress gathered by the UAE in the past 51 years can’t be accomplished without benevolent leadership who put their people first.
Today, the UAE is the beacon of progress in the world. It’s a country that embraces “strength in diversity” in true spirit and welcomes people from all backgrounds with an open arm.
I feel honored to be part of this country’s legacy and wish the nation all the success and glory!
Dr Mostafa AlGuezeri, Managing Director, Hitachi Energy, said: I take this opportunity on behalf of Hitachi Energy to congratulate the Nation’s Visionary Rulers for shaping the country into peace and prosperity as we celebrate 51 glorious years. With immense pleasure, we wish the citizens and residents of the UAE a very Happy 51st UAE National Day!
As the pioneering technology leader, we are proud to support the nation as we collaborate with customers and partners to enable a sustainable energy future – for today’s generations and those to come.
As we move into the 51st year of the UAE, we wish the UAE a happy National Day and hope to see this attitude of driving toward progress continue propelling this nation to new heights.”
Dr Shanila Laiju, Group Chief Executive Officer, Medcare Hospitals & Medical Centres, said: The mark of a great nation is treating its residents with kindness and compassion. Taking care of them to ensure that they are able to live, healthy, happy, and prosperous lives. The UAE government has lived by the standards set by its founders 51 years ago and has built a nation that its people can be proud to call home. This National Day, we show our appreciation to the leadership of the UAE, who have enabled every resident of this country to flourish and thrive.
Ali Shabdar, Regional MEA Director, Zoho, said: The UAE National Day is a special day for everyone to celebrate. Every year we not only commemorate the Emirates’ union, but celebrate the ripple effect of the nation’s continuing prosperity, development as well as the growth across different sectors— especially in Technology— that we reap its benefits as organisations and individuals. On this occasion, we extend our warmest wishes and support to the UAE’s leadership, government and citizens for the hard work, relentless determination and unbounded ambition that continue to push its limits beyond imagination.
Bharat Bhatia, CEO, Conares, said: In 51 years, since its founding, the UAE has broken through every single ceiling and reached unimaginable heights, transforming itself from a small oil-producing nation in the desert to a global industrial and manufacturing powerhouse. The country has a rich history of being progressive and forward-thinking in everything they do as they have strived to live up to the vision of its founders. Wishing the government and people of the UAE a very happy National Day and know that they will continue to thrive and prosper.
Abdul Jebbar, Group Managing Director, Hotpack , said: On the 51st anniversary of the UAE, we should remember and acknowledge the progress that the government and the people of this country have made over the years. The UAE started out with nothing and today it is a leader and pioneer in manufacturing, trade, and everything else it has chosen to pursue. We are grateful for the opportunities this country has provided us and how it has enabled us to implement innovative ideas and build new businesses. Happy National Day!”
Naren Vijay, Executive VP – Growth, Lumenore, said: As we celebrate the 51st National Day of the UAE, it is important to remember the sacrifices made by the founders of this country. Their virtues and values have carried on since the country’s birth and have guided it to its many successes that have cemented the UAE as one of the leading knowledge economies in the whole world. We are grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the continued success of the UAE and will do our best to honour the vision of the founders.”
Abdulla Nalapad, Managing Director, Nalapad Investments , said: The UAE leadership and its people have continuously displayed their deep commitment to progress by breaking down new barriers and striving towards new milestones. The country has always dedicated itself to living up to the values and vision of its founders and has reaped the rewards for it, becoming one of the most desirable destinations for investment in the world. In its 51st year, we know that the government will continue following in the footsteps of its founders, empowering its people to take on new opportunities and prosper. Wishing the leaders, citizens and residents a very Happy 51st UAE National Day.”
Hussam Eldin Mohamed Elmilliegi, Deputy Regional Manager , QNET, said: Every person in the UAE can pursue their dreams and ambitions because this country not only incentivises innovation and entrepreneurial grit but rewards it. It is a place that has empowered people to believe that they are capable of achieving anything. As we move into the 51st year of the UAE, on this National Day, let us celebrate the countless successes that have been made possible by the UAE government’s tireless dedication to its people.”
