VIDEO: Sheikh Mohammed opens 3rd ordinary session of 18th legislative chapter of FNC
- Last updated: November 24, 2025 | 13:49 ..
Gulf Today, Staff Reporter
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, on Monday inaugurated the third ordinary session of the 18th legislative chapter of the Federal National Council (FNC), on behalf of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
This was in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chief of the Presidential Court.
With a sublime speech, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum inaugurated the third ordinary session of the eighteenth legislative term.
The session was attended by the Crown Princes, Deputy Rulers, senior civil and military officials, and members of the diplomatic corps.
The opening session began with Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum arriving at the Council's headquarters in Abu Dhabi, where he was received by a committee headed by Saqr Ghobash, the Council's Speaker, and including other Council members and the Secretary-General. His Highness then proceeded to the reception hall to greet the Crown Princes, Deputy Rulers and Sheikhs.
He then moved to the Zayed Hall, where the opening ceremony commenced with the national anthem and a recitation of verses from the Holy Quran.
Saqr Ghobash, Speaker of the Federal National Council, delivered a keynote address, expressing gratitude to the leadership for their continued support, which he said has enabled Council members to carry out their responsibilities.
He said that 2025 has been an exceptional year for the UAE, marked by major achievements on all fronts. The country strengthened its global standing in competitiveness, security, the economy, innovation, renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and quality of life, and advanced among the leading states in soft power.
Ghobash added that the declaration of 2025 as the Year of Community and 2026 as the Year of the Family reflects the national focus on human values.
These themes highlight the importance of belonging, strong family foundations, and shared responsibility in nation building. He noted that the approval of the federal budget for 2026, the largest in the history of the nation, confirms continued growth and confidence in national capabilities.
He also said that the UAE continues to play a leading role in promoting regional and global peace, supporting dialogue and coexistence, extending help to those in need, and maintaining its firm support for the Palestinian people.
He affirmed the commitment of the Federal National Council to its constitutional duties and to supporting the vision of the leadership in building a nation prepared for the future. He concluded with a prayer for the nation, its leadership, and its people.