Dubai: As Dubai celebrated the fourth anniversary of accession of His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, on Monday, Emiratis of all age groups expressed immense happiness and pride over Shaikh Mohammad's accomplishments.
Gulf News spoke to a number of Emiratis who witnessed the steps of development of the emirate before the era of Shaikh Mohammad and recalled how his wise vision turned Dubai into an global destination.
Man of vision
A former Dubai government employee, Khalifa Al Shamsi, 70, said: "The achievements of Shaikh Mohammad are beyond measuring and it's enough to summarise it in turning a desert into a glittering pearl," Al Shamsi said.
He said Shaikh Mohammad is "the man who is tirelessly pursuing the success and he always seeks the best for his people."
Al Shamsi added: "We are so proud of him and I even named my grandson after Shaikh Mohammad hoping he will follow [in] his footsteps and grow up to be like him."
Another Emirati, Juma Al Doukhi, 65, a former Dubai government employee, said: "We are truly blessed ... anything I say is not enough for such a visionary man, I totally admire his vision and the way he executes them into tangible reality."
He said Shaikh Mohammad made Dubai internationally known and made the emirate one of the most glamorous destinations in the world. "Shaikh Mohammad is the pride of Arabs. May Allah bless our son Shaikh Mohammad," he said.
Rashid Al Falasi, 71, said: "Shaikh Mohammad is a matchless persona, he is the man of actions, if you notice that the man does not speak much but acts extensively. May Allah bless him and Dubai."
He added that Shaikh Mohammad is a man with extraordinary will. "The man is always telling his people ‘you just name whatever you want to be or to do and Dubai will make it true'."
Support
Al Falasi concluded that: "Today's generation is extremely lucky to have such a matchless leader who believes in them and provides them with an absolute support."
Ebrahim Salem, 75, said Shaikh Mohammad has won the title of "Prince of People".
He added "Shaikh Mohammad has all the features, he is the true and visionary leader and genuinely a modest man, he is always seen among his people, either adults or kids.
"[A] couple of months ago I saw him on television visiting a school and I cannot forget the way he was surrounded by the school's pupils and exchanging with them their dreams and asking them what they wanted to be in the future, not to mention the unmistakably joyful smile that appeared on the kids' faces."
What according to you is the most definitive trait that sets Shaikh Mohammad apart from other world leaders? Have you taken part in any of the events?