Sheikh Mohammed marks 60 years in public service with new book ‘Life Has Taught Me’

The book focuses on values, principles and lessons drawn from challenges and achievements

Last updated:
Khitam Al Amir, Chief News Editor
2 MIN READ
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai
@HHShkMohd/X

Dubai: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has captured the essence of six decades in public service, governance, and life experience in a new book titled “Life Has Taught Me.”

Announcing the book on his official X account, Sheikh Mohammed wrote: “Brothers and sisters, in a few days, I will complete 60 years in public service — 60 years immersed in the politics of the people, the politics of governance, and the politics of life itself. These years have passed swiftly, filled with challenges and achievements, crises and joys, sorrows and celebrations, as well as countless surprises.”

Reflecting on the purpose of the book, he continued: “What have I learned from life? From the politics of government? From dealing with people, with all their different temperaments, complex psychologies, and ever-changing ways? What have I learned about management, projects, and politics with all its complexities?”

Sheikh Mohammed said the book distils his experiences into lessons focused on ideas, principles, and values rather than projects or positions: “I wanted this book to be simple in its words, candid in its expressions, and truthful in its meanings — so that it speaks from heart to heart. Ideas endure, concepts are broader, and principles are greater.”

Concluding, he wrote: “Today, I write these words first for myself, then for my sons and my people, and finally for all who wish to learn even a single word or phrase from my life. I pray that my words, my experiences, and my life may be of benefit to both my country and my people.”

Khitam Al Amir
Khitam Al AmirChief News Editor
With over 30 years of journalistic experience spanning from Jordan to the UAE, Khitam has spent the past 22 years reporting on national and regional news from Dubai, with a strong focus on the UAE, GCC and broader Arab affairs. As Chief News Editor, she brings extensive expertise in delivering breaking and engaging news to readers. Beginning her tenure as a translator, she advanced through roles as Senior Translator and Chief Translator before transitioning to editorial positions, culminating in her current leadership role. Her responsibilities encompass monitoring breaking news across the UAE and the broader Arab region, ensuring timely and accurate dissemination to the public.​ Born into a family of journalists, Khitam's passion for news was ignited early in life. A defining moment in her youth occurred in September 1985 when she had the opportunity to converse with the late British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher during her visit to a Palestinian refugee camp north of Amman. During this encounter, Khitam shared her family's experiences of displacement from their home in Palestine and their subsequent refuge in Jordan. This poignant interaction not only deepened her understanding of geopolitical issues but also solidified her commitment to pursuing a career in journalism, aiming to shed light on the stories of those affected by regional conflicts. Khitam’s commitment to accurate and timely reporting drives her to seek out news that interests readers, making her a trusted source for news on the UAE and the broader Gulf region.

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