Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid to Sheikh Hamdan: Leadership is about winning people’s hearts

Dubai: In a touching reply to his father, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai and Deputy Prime Minister, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum pledged to remain close to their people and uphold justice, in response to his father's message commemorating 20 years since he took on the role of Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai.

Addressing his father with endearment, Sheikh Hamdan acknowledged that finding words worthy of his father was among the most challenging moments for a son, especially given the lessons imparted by his father on responsibility, the nation's priority, and the significance of actions over words. He reflected that those twenty years in his father's guidance had provided him with a solid foundation in leadership, the nation's supremacy, and the trust placed upon him by the people.

Sheikh Hamdan emphasized that a person's worth is measured by their ability to earn their father's approval, stating that his father's words today not only brought joy to the son but also placed a greater obligation on him as the official to always embody that trust and fulfill the true essence of the teachings he has received. "I promise to remain as you taught me: close to the people, steadfast in upholding what is right, and loyal to the nation," Sheikh Hamdan vowed, reaffirming his commitment to the principles instilled by his father over the years.

He also reiterated his dedication to safeguarding the achievements of his father and the UAE's leaders, built through hard work, dedication, and sincerity, stating, "We will remain, for Dubai and the UAE, as you taught us: accepting nothing for them but first place." Concluding his reply with a heartfelt prayer for his father, Sheikh Hamdan invoked God's blessings upon him, asking for the strength to always live up to Sheikh Mohammed’s high expectations.

“May God preserve you for us as a father, teacher and leader, and preserve you as a source of strength, pride and an incomparable symbol,” he prayed.