36 years of progress and development

Landmarks are being reached and surpassed at unfathomable speed as the UAE today marks the 36th year since it was declared a federation.

For nationals and expatriates alike this would be an appropriate moment to take stock of the present and then resume the ambitious trek towards the future.

As the country races towards the fulfilment of its goals - even as new ones are constantly being set - it has not disengaged from its links with the past and with the founders of the nation who helped forge the path to its current, contemporary position.

The past is a special place: it is the pasture on which the seeds for a brighter present, coupled with the dreams for a prosperous tomorrow, have been sown.

Today the UAE is the country to emulate. The world watches as success in multiple fields and steady development acts as a barometer both internationally and in the region. While keeping abreast of the best of global standards, requirements and practices - but also being loyal to the virtues of its own culture - gains in business, healthcare, education, culture and standards of living have been made across the length and breadth of the country.

The UAE recognises the catalysts for a better future: children. The Dubai Cares campaign, which raised billions of dollars for the upliftment and education of children worldwide, is just one case in point.

The empowerment of women in society is another. Furthermore, it has certified its credentials as a responsible global and regional political citizen by transmitting the message of peace while constantly maintaining the purity of this doctrine.

All this and more can only be put down to the vision of its leaders, an image that has in turn been superimposed upon the will and aspiration of the people.