Business leaders, representing diverse sectors, have expressed their pride and admiration for the UAE on its Golden Jubilee year, highlighting that the nation’s achievements inspire them to partner for the Next 50 Years of progress and prosperity.

Mohammad A. Baker, Deputy Chairman and CEO, GMG, said “With a clear direction set out by the founding fathers of the nation, fifty years on the UAE is a country that is celebrated worldwide for its diversity, tolerance, and opportunity. These attributes and others have made the UAE a global hub for the exchange of ideas and knowledge in an increasingly connected world. Despite these many achievements, the UAE is a nation with its vision set on the future. Ambitious sustainable development goals are complemented by a commitment to nurturing happiness and positive lifestyles throughout the society.

In many ways, our success at GMG mirrors that of the UAE. Just as the nation has been transformed over the past 50 years from humble beginnings to a global trade and economic hub, our company has witnessed radical change, expanding from a single butcher’s shop into a global well-being company.

Today, GMG is proud to support the UAE’s boundless entrepreneurial ambition. Like the UAE, we are always pushing to achieve more and are always looking to do what is next. Our investments aimed at improving people’s lives through active living, nutritious food, and good health are a strategic move to support the UAE’s future vision and add value to an increasingly diversified UAE economy.

Mohammed Abdul Rahman Al Mutawa,  CEO Ducab Group, said “The Golden Jubilee is both a time to celebrate the nation’s extraordinary achievements while also envisioning an even more prosperous and sustainable future. Over the last 50 years, the spirit of unity across the Emirates has led to groundbreaking advancements across every segment of the economy and society. During this time, Ducab Group itself has been a testament to the deep cooperation that exists between the Emirates—particularly Abu Dhabi and Dubai—to progress local industry, and to strengthen the participation of Emirati talent in the industrial sector.

 Looking ahead, we see enormous potential to contribute to the national development ambitions of the UAE, inspired by the ‘Principles of the 50’,  the UAE Centennial Plan 2071, and other strategic initiatives introduced by the country’s wise leadership. In the decades ahead, our focus will be on providing ‘Energy for Change’ that generates positive economic, social, and environmental impact in the UAE and beyond.”

Geoffrey Alphonso, CEO of Alef Education, said “This year’s National Day marks a special occasion for the UAE as it celebrates its Golden Jubilee. Highlighting five decades of remarkable progress, this occasion is a testament to the country’s longstanding record of success and achievements. The UAE has made great strides in advancing the education sector, recognizing the significant role that it plays in creating a knowledge-driven economy. Witnessing spectacular achievements in the past five decades, the UAE government has set out several initiatives and plans, such as UAE Centennial Plan 2071, that aim to provide a world-class education system and equip future generations with the necessary technical and practical skills that will enable them to make positive contributions to Emirati society and the global community

At Alef Education, we are proud of being a homegrown, leading global education technology provider that empowers 21st-century learning. Our efforts contribute to the UAE Centennial 2071 plan by delivering an exceptional learning experience that enables students to gain crucial skills for their future careers. Looking ahead to the next 50 years, we remain committed to providing personalized and engaging learning experiences for 21st century learners, contributing to the development of a high-quality education system in the UAE that nurtures talents and ensures competitiveness and innovation.”

His Excellency Engineer Awaidha Murshed Al Marar, Chairman, Abu Dhabi Department of Energy said “The major milestones reached by the UAE as well as its ambitious plans for the transition towards clean and renewable energy in conjunction with the nation’s Golden Jubilee complement the processes of building civilization and humanity, establishing sustainability, security and stability, as well as delivering opportunities and attracting investment, in addition to strengthening international partnerships built on firm foundations of cooperation and interdependence and sharing knowledge and experience.”

“The UAE National Day is a memory dear to the heart of every citizen and resident of this country. This year’s celebration is the culmination of long years of tackling challenges following the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, whose memory will forever live in the hearts of the Emirati people.”

Arch. Abdulla Al Abdooli, CEO of Marjan, said “The nation’s journey in the past 50 years has been defined by several milestones, including the announcement of regional first initiatives such as the long-term visas and the Golden Visas that recognise exceptional talent. A real commitment to results, evidenced by the nation’s advances in sustainable development, women and youth empowerment, and economic diversification, which were outlined in the UAE Vision 2021 – and the goals achieved – highlight that the nation and its leadership ‘walks the talk.’

“Another strong testament to the nation’s strength is the committed action, led by the leaders from the forefront, during the pandemic. Furthermore the UAE’s ‘ 10 Principles of the 50’ highlight the values of tolerance, inclusiveness, fairness and opportunity that appeal to the world.

“The nation’s forward-looking policies and decisive action have had a profound positive influence in welcoming international investors. Moving forward, policies such as the Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative and the Operation 300bn strategy will drive the sustainable progress of the nation in the lead up to its Centennial.”

His Excellency Engineer Ahmed Mohammed Belajer Al Rumaithi,  Undersecretary, Abu Dhabi Department of Energy, said “Over the past 50 years, the UAE has demonstrated its ability to adapt to difficult changes and challenges with unmatched agility and foresight, all of which have been transformed into the pillars and characteristics that the nation has implemented across all levels reflecting its enlightened aspirations and building an eminent nation with exceptional reputation.

“The past 50 years have brought all stages of development, including an urban, economic and human renaissance, as well as entrepreneurship and prosperity in trade, investment in technology and artificial intelligence. The UAE has adopted innovation as a way of work led by the approach of the UAE rulers, the best predecessors to the best successors.”