Famous Emirati Leaders

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is the current ruler of Dubai, serving as the vice president and prime minister of the UAE. He is a prominent real estate developer, overseeing the growth of Dubai into a global city and launching government-owned enterprises such as Emirates Airline and DP World. Mohammed is known for developing iconic projects in Dubai like the Palm Islands and the Burj Khalifa. He is also involved in equestrian sports, founding the Godolphin stable and winning the FEI World Endurance Championship in 2012.

Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan served as the second president of the United Arab Emirates and ruler of Abu Dhabi from November 2004 until his passing in May 2022. He played a significant role in the economic development of the UAE, overseeing the growth of the non-oil economy and attracting cultural and academic institutions to Abu Dhabi. Khalifa was known for his modernizing efforts, maintaining close ties with Western countries, particularly the United States and Israel. He also played a key role in managing the financial crisis of 2007-2008.

Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan was a prominent Emirati royal, politician, and philanthropist. He served as the governor of the Eastern Region before becoming the ruler of Abu Dhabi in 1966. Zayed played a key role in the formation of the United Arab Emirates and served as the country's first president while retaining his position as Abu Dhabi's ruler. He is highly respected in the UAE for his efforts in unifying the Trucial States to establish the Union of the United Arab Emirates.

Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan is an Emirati royal and politician, serving as the Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates. He holds key positions in various state-owned businesses, including chairman of UAE sovereign wealth funds and the Central Bank of the UAE. Mansour is also the owner of the Abu Dhabi United Group, which oversees investments in football clubs such as Manchester City and New York City FC. His sports investments have drawn criticism for being perceived as an attempt to improve the UAE's image.

Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is an Emirati politician and prominent figure in Dubai's leadership. She plays a key role in various initiatives that focus on education, youth development, and women's empowerment. She has been actively involved in promoting art and culture in the region and is known for her philanthropic work. Sheikha Manal is dedicated to advancing the welfare and progress of the people of Dubai through her diverse professional endeavors.

Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is actively involved in various professional endeavors within Dubai and the UAE. He plays a key role in supporting and promoting initiatives related to sports, culture, and youth development. Sheikh Majid has been instrumental in leading and organizing numerous events and programs that aim to enrich the community and showcase the talents and achievements of individuals in various fields. Additionally, he is known for his philanthropic efforts and commitment to social causes within the region.

Abdullahi Yusuf Ahmed was a prominent Somali politician and former colonel in the Somali National Army. He played key roles in various political movements and initiatives in Somalia, including co-founding the Somali Salvation Democratic Front and establishing the Puntland state. He also helped establish the Transitional Federal Government and served as the President of Somalia from 2004 to 2008. Throughout his career, Abdullahi Yusuf Ahmed was known for his dedication to public service and his leadership in shaping Somalia's political landscape.

Shamma Al Mazrui is an Emirati politician who has held key positions in the government of the United Arab Emirates. She currently serves as the minister of community development, following her previous role as the minister of state for youth affairs. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to addressing important issues affecting the community and empowering the youth of the nation. Shamma Al Mazrui's professional life is marked by her commitment to public service and her efforts to drive positive change in society.

Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum was a prominent Emirati royal and politician who held key positions in the United Arab Emirates government. He served as the second vice president, first and third prime minister of the UAE, as well as the ruler of Dubai. During his tenure as prime minister, he played a vital role in shaping the country's political landscape. His contributions to the development and governance of the UAE were significant, and his legacy continues to be honored.

Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum is an Emirati royal and politician known for his roles as the Crown Prince of Dubai since 2008 and the Minister of Defence of the UAE since 2024. He previously held the position of deputy ruler of Dubai from 2006 to 2008. Popularly known as Fazza, he is an accomplished equestrian with multiple world championships at the World Equestrian Games. Additionally, he is recognized for his poetry, which he publishes under the name Fazza, meaning "the one who helps" in Arabic.

Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed Al Maktoum is an Emirati royal and prominent politician holding key positions in the United Arab Emirates government. He serves as the minister of finance, deputy ruler of Dubai, and chairman of Dubai Media Incorporated. He assumed the role of deputy ruler in 2008 and has since played a crucial role in the governance of Dubai. Maktoum also holds positions of high responsibility, such as deputy prime minister and finance minister of the UAE, showcasing his significant contributions to the country's political and economic landscape.

Reem Al Hashimi is an Emirati politician serving as the Minister of State for International Cooperation in the UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. With a distinguished career in diplomacy and international relations, she has played a key role in enhancing the UAE's global partnerships and promoting cooperation on various fronts. Al Hashimi has been instrumental in representing the UAE on the international stage, advocating for humanitarian initiatives, and fostering diplomatic relations with countries worldwide, contributing significantly to the country's foreign policy objectives.

Sheikha Hassa bint Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan was known for her significant contributions to various charitable and humanitarian causes in the United Arab Emirates. She played an active role in supporting education, healthcare, and social welfare programs. She was a respected figure in Emirati society and was admired for her dedication to improving the lives of others. Her philanthropic efforts left a lasting impact on the community and earned her recognition as a compassionate and benevolent leader.

Lubna Khalid Al Qasimi is a prominent Emirati politician who has held several high-ranking ministerial positions in the United Arab Emirates government, including Minister of State for Tolerance, Minister of State for International Cooperation, and Minister of Economic and Planning. She made history as the first woman to hold a ministerial post in the UAE. In addition to her political roles, she has been serving as the President of Zayed University since 2014, contributing significantly to the fields of education and women's empowerment.

Noura Al Kaabi is an accomplished Emirati politician and businesswoman with a prominent career in public service. Currently serving as Minister of State at the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, she previously held key positions such as Minister of Culture and Youth and Minister of State for Federal National Council Affairs. Al Kaabi has also demonstrated strong leadership as chairperson of twofour54 and Abu Dhabi Media. Her diverse roles highlight her dedication to advancing culture, youth empowerment, and media development in the United Arab Emirates.

Ahmed bin Zayed Al Nahyan was a prominent Emirati businessman known for his role as the managing director of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority. He played a pivotal role in overseeing the investment strategies and operations of one of the world's largest sovereign wealth funds. With a keen business acumen and strategic vision, he led the organization towards successful investments and financial growth. His contributions to the financial sector were widely recognized, establishing him as a key figure in the global business community.

Sarah Al Amiri is a prominent figure in the field of science and technology in the United Arab Emirates. She has held various key positions including Minister of State for Advanced Technology, Chair of the UAE Space Agency, and Deputy Project Manager of the Emirates Mars Mission. Al Amiri's career has been marked by significant achievements such as leading the Hope Mars Mission, speaking at international events like TED, and being recognized by prestigious organizations like the World Economic Forum and Time magazine. She continues to drive innovation and collaboration in the scientific community.

Mariam Almheiri is an Emirati politician with a notable career in public service. She has held key positions within the government of the United Arab Emirates, including serving as the minister of climate change and environment. Almheiri's expertise in environmental issues has been a significant contribution to the country's policies and initiatives in sustainability. Currently, she serves as the head of the Office of International Affairs in the Presidential Court, where she continues to play a crucial role in diplomatic relations and international affairs.

Najla Mohammad Al Awar is the Minister of Community Development in the United Arab Emirates and Secretary General of the Ministry of Cabinet Affairs and The Future. She holds a bachelor's degree in Information Technology and has studied Management Administration at the London Business School. With a background in legal affairs and executive development, she has played key roles in various government bodies and initiatives. Notable achievements include establishing programs like "i'dad" and forming councils to empower individuals with disabilities. She is recognized as one of the most powerful Arab women by Forbes Middle East.

Lana Zaki Nusseibeh is an Emirati diplomat serving as the United Arab Emirates Permanent Representative to the United Nations since September 2013. In this role, she represents her country's interests on global issues, engages in diplomatic negotiations, and advocates for policy positions at the UN. Nusseibeh plays a key role in promoting international cooperation, addressing humanitarian crises, and advancing the UAE's foreign policy objectives within the UN framework. Her professional achievements demonstrate her expertise in diplomacy, multilateral relations, and global governance.

Ohood Bint Khalfan Al Roumi is an accomplished Emirati politician known for her significant contributions in government development and future planning. Serving as the Minister of State for Government Development and Future, she plays a key role in shaping the strategic direction of the nation. Additionally, she holds the position of Chairwoman of the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR), showcasing her expertise in human capital management. With a strong focus on driving innovation and progress, Ohoud Al Roumi's professional life is marked by dedication to advancing governmental initiatives and fostering sustainable growth.

Maryam Mohammed Khalfan Al Roumi is an Emirati woman politician who served as the minister of social affairs from 2006 to 2014. She made history as the second woman to hold a cabinet post in the United Arab Emirates. During her tenure, she focused on various social welfare initiatives, advocating for the rights and well-being of vulnerable populations. Al Roumi's leadership and dedication to improving social services have left a lasting impact on the country's social development landscape.