Who is Mohamed bin Zayed? UAE President Strengthening Ties with India During Crown Prince's Visit

The MBZ ascended to the throne as the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi in November 2004 after the demise of his father. He also holds the rank of Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces and holds several military positions, has become a pilot in the UAE Air Force and was promoted to the rank of General in 2005.

As the de facto ruler of Abu Dhabi since 2014 because of his brother Sheikh Khalifa’s chronic illness, MBZ has enshrined politics of economic liberalization and social reforms in the UAE.

Through various activities and projects in the cultural domain, UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has significantly shaped Abu Dhabi's cultural profile by promoting multiculturalism, preserving cultural and historical identities, and fostering intercultural dialogue globally.

Development of Cultural Institutions

Under his leadership, Abu Dhabi has emerged as a global hub for cultural institutions. The Saadiyat Cultural District, one of his major investments, houses iconic museums such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi, which opened in 2017 and has since attracted millions of visitors. This museum showcases artworks from different cultures, emphasizing a message of unity and cultural exchange. The district will also include the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and the Zayed National Museum, further establishing Abu Dhabi as a premier cultural destination.

Several key aspects highlight the importance of this cultural promotion: Sheikh Mohamed’s passion for art has driven programs that celebrate both the heritage of the Emirates and modern artistic expressions. The Department of Culture & Tourism Abu Dhabi has also supported significant events like Abu Dhabi Art and the Culture Summit, which gather artists and cultural leaders from around the world.

Legislative Reforms

In February 2022, Abu Dhabi enacted a civil marriage and divorce law, allowing expatriates to follow non-religious family systems. This progressive legislation, the first of its kind in the region, strengthens minority and modern family rights, reflecting Sheikh Mohamed’s progressive vision for a tolerant and diverse society.

Commitment to Education and Society

Sheikh Mohamed has consistently emphasized the role of education in advancing culture, a belief proven through his actions. His administration has heavily invested in youth, providing access to higher education and encouraging active participation in societal and cultural development. His vision aims to foster social cohesion by preserving Emirati heritage through various youth programs.

Recent Visit to India

On September 8, 2024, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan paid his first state visit to India where he landed in New Delhi. He was accompanied by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal at the airport by a ceremonial welcome.

The two-day working visit is intended to enhance India- UAE cooperation across sectors such as energy, connectivity, trade, investment and cultural ties. The Crown Prince plans to do business with the Prime minister of India Narendra Modi, President Droupadi Murmu he will visit Rajghat to offer tribute to Mahatma Gandhi.

After the end of his trip to Delhi, the Crown Prince will proceed to Mumbai to attend a business conference with the leading business people from both countries. The India-UAE relationship has been now upgraded to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, and both countries recorded bilateral trade of approximately USD 85 billion during 2022-2023.

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