Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan (1918-2004) was the ruler of the United Arab Emirates from 1971 until his death in 2004. He was an influential leader in the Arab world, and his legacy is still felt in the UAE and beyond.

Sheikh Zayed was born in Al Ain, in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, and was the eldest son of Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan. He was educated in the traditional Islamic way, and served as a leader in the Trucial States, which later became the United Arab Emirates.

Sheikh Zayed is credited with transforming the UAE from a small fishing and trading nation into a modern, prosperous and stable country. He was a visionary leader who understood the importance of education, economic development, and environmental protection. He was also a champion of human rights, and worked to ensure that the rights of all citizens were respected.

Sheikh Zayed was also active in international affairs, and was an important figure in the Arab League. In 2000, he was awarded the United Nations’ Zayed Award for Humanitarianism, in recognition of his work to promote peace and understanding between nations.

Sheikh Zayed was an important figure in the Middle East and his legacy lives on in the UAE. He is remembered for his commitment to social justice, education, and economic development, and his efforts to promote peace and understanding between nations.