Exactly fifty years after he was first appointed head of Dubai Police and committed to a life in service of his nation, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, can be credited with making dreams come true. But as congratulations and praise flooded in from well-wishers across the UAE on that most auspicious occasion, he was not resting on his laurels. Rather, after presiding over Dubai's staggering transformation into a booming metropolis and global hub of business and culture, Sheikh Mohammed is still a driving force determined to ensure the future prosperity of his nation.
In that light, Dubai's ruler has issued an eight-point plan representing a blueprint for long-term success. It amounts to a series of principles to guide the emirate on a steady course, and a basis for which he and those who succeed him should found their leadership. The UAE's growth has been underpinned by vast oil reserves, certainly, but the nation would not have come as far, as quickly, were it not for the values instilled first by Sheikh Zayed, and subsequently by his successors. All have taken up the mantle of the late Founding Father and propelled the UAE yet further into the future.
The steps themselves represent a road map to foster stability, prosperity and sustainability. The common denominator uniting all eight principles is the significance placed on innovation, creativity, talent, fair play and harmony. As Sheikh Mohammed said: "Dubai has always relied on dreamers for its success". The emirate has been built and developed by skilled and talented people and some of the brightest minds in the world. The principles aim to foster an environment that will continue to attract those in the business of ideas. While economic diversification has brought Dubai this far, they are a recognition that it will continue to need a framework of guiding values to keep innovating and thrive in the future.
As Sheikh Mohammed tweeted: “I promise you that the days will only increase our insistence on service, creativity at work and acceleration of achievements.” A time will come when those who built the UAE are no longer here to witness its progress. But with this blueprint for future success, Sheikh Mohammed’s vision will endure for decades to come.