Decision hailed as dynamic move for Dubai

Dubai: The appointment of Shaikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum as Crown Prince of Dubai was hailed by government officials, business leaders and educationists yesterday as a progressive step that will give fresh momentum to the emirate's dizzying development.

Abdul Aziz Abdullah Al Ghurair, Speaker of the Federal National Council, said Shaikh Hamdan had succeeded in all the challenging responsibilities he had been assigned before being given this role.

"He is a very good decision-maker," said Sultan Ahmad Bin Sulayem, executive chairman of Dubai World. "The step comes at the right time and will boost investor confidence," said Hamad Bu Amim, director-general of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Dr Hanif Hassan, Minister of Education, hailed the appointment as a wise decision. "Shaikh Hamdan is an upright commander and has excellent leadership skills," said Mohammad Nakhira Al Daheri, Justice Minister.

Juma Al Majid, a prominent businessman and phil-anthropist, said: "The decision is in line with his current position as the Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council as he has carried out his duties with remarkable success."

Mohammad Ali Al Abbar, Director General of the Department of Economic Development in Dubai and Chairman of Emaar Properties, said the decision reaffirms that the future of Dubai is in the safe hands of a confident and young leadership.