'I am proud to be a Gulf citizen': Sheikh Mohammed urges unity and rejects attempts to sow division

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, expressed pride in being a Gulf citizen, urging unity and rejecting attempts to divide the region. In a message shared on social media, the Sheikh reflected on the remarkable transformation of the Gulf from simple towns to global metropolises. He emphasized the Gulf's sons playing key roles on the global stage while staying true to their heritage.

Despite facing adversity, such as missile and drone strikes from Iran and attacks from Houthi rebels in Yemen, Sheikh Mohammed stressed the importance of standing together for a better future. He rejected social media misinformation and narrow-minded agendas, stating that such campaigns cannot erase centuries of neighbourliness or alter the facts of geography.

The heartfelt address is from his new book, The Letters. Sheikh Mohammed wrote that unity among the Gulf was not based on political agreements but generations living along its shores. He highlighted that the whole is stronger than the sum of its parts and that strength lies in working together to create new opportunities. The Dubai Ruler expressed optimism about the Gulf's enduring resilience, its sons, sea, and ports, and the dreams of its people.

The Sheikh's remarks followed a meeting between President Sheikh Mohamed and Prince Khalid bin Salman, Saudi Minister of Defence, to discuss regional developments and strengthen security and stability in the region.