On Sunday, the emirate of Ajman marks the 45th anniversary of His Highness Sheikh Hamid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi taking the helm as the ruler, succeeding his late father, Sheikh Rashid bin Hamid Al Nuaimi. Since that pivotal moment, Ajman has witnessed a remarkable journey of growth and development, shaped by a wise vision and a prudent approach that have solidified the emirate’s stature and enhanced its progress.
45 Years of Building and Development
Over four and a half decades, His Highness has steered Ajman with wisdom and capability, placing the welfare of the people at the heart of development. He has continued his father’s legacy of construction and advancement, enriching the emirate’s achievements and nurturing its aspirations for a flourishing, sustainable future.
Born in Ajman, Sheikh Hamid received his early education in mosque circles, where he studied the Quran, hadith, and principles of jurisprudence. He later expanded his knowledge under the guidance of scholars in language and mathematics, while also training in horsemanship and martial arts. His early grasp of governance and administration positioned him as a key aide to his father. In 1960, he was appointed Crown Prince, assuming responsibility and executing his role with diligence and skill.
Contribution to the Union’s Foundation
Sheikh Hamid played an instrumental role in establishing the United Arab Emirates, participating in discussions leading to the country’s formation from 1968 onward, alongside his father, one of the founding fathers of the federation. For over forty years, he has committed himself to serving the nation, bolstering its developmental trajectory and reinforcing its standing in accordance with the founders’ vision.
Since his ascension to leadership, His Highness has dedicated himself to elevating Ajman, committing time and effort to comprehensive development across various sectors, including education, economy, health, community, security, culture, and sports. He has wholeheartedly prioritised the welfare of citizens, ensuring a dignified life for both residents and visitors to the emirate.
Opening of the First Girls’ School in 1960
Recognising the significance of education, Sheikh Hamid has emphasised this sector as a foundational pillar from the outset. His pivotal role in facilitating student engagement in semi-formal education in the late 1950s significantly contributed to women’s education, highlighted by the establishment of the first girls’ school in 1960.
Continuing his efforts to support education, he launched the Rashid bin Hamid Al Nuaimi Award in 1983, dedicated to recognising outstanding achievements in education and culture. Under his auspices, Ajman has celebrated scholars and innovators, honouring excellence and leadership within the community.
Establishment of Ajman University
His Highness oversaw the founding of Ajman University College in 1988, which has evolved into Ajman University, transforming the emirate into a beacon of higher education.
Firmly believing in the principle of consultation, Sheikh Hamid established the Executive Council of Ajman via Decree No. (4) of 2003, enabling it to play a leading role in formulating public policies and strategic plans for the emirate.
The ruler of Ajman places significant emphasis on developing infrastructure to serve the residents and visitors, such as constructing new bridges, enhancing transportation systems, and establishing parks and recreational projects to enrich the community’s well-being.
Exceptional Performance of Ajman Free Zones
Under His Highness’s guidance, Ajman has crafted a unique investment environment that caters to the needs of local and foreign businesses alike. The Ajman Free Zones Authority has realised exceptional performance year on year, establishing itself as an ideal destination for thousands of companies through a host of facilities and incentives for investors.
Attention has also been given to Ajman Port, recognised as a key driver of the emirate’s economic growth, undergoing continuous development and expansion to accommodate escalating vessel traffic and enhance trade exchanges between the UAE and other countries.
Furthermore, the tourism sector has experienced significant growth, with an increase in tourism facilities and hotels, alongside attractive tourist attractions enticing visitors worldwide. Ajman continues to expand its tourism projects, reaching every corner of the emirate.
Urban Renaissance
The emirate has witnessed an extensive urban renaissance through the execution of major real estate projects, solidifying Ajman’s position as a prime destination for significant real estate ventures.
In health care, the emirate has made rapid advancements, providing services that meet the highest global standards, alongside expanding and developing health facilities to ensure residents and citizens receive optimal care and treatment.
Ensuring safety and security remains a top priority for Sheikh Hamid, who is dedicated to fostering stability and development. His unceasing support for security agencies aims to provide safety for all, a commitment reflected in Ajman’s consistent ranking first globally in feelings of safety for multiple consecutive years, including 2026.
By his directives, Ajman has placed a strong emphasis on nationalisation and the cultivation of local talent, prioritising human development as the cornerstone of progress essential for building a future shaped by educated and creative individuals.
Global Humanitarian Initiatives
In the realm of humanitarian work, Sheikh Hamid champions charitable efforts, ensuring support reaches individuals regardless of their faith, colour, or gender. The establishment of the Global Charity Authority in 1984 marked the beginning of the first charity organisation at the national level.
The Hamid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi Charity Foundation provides support through various charitable and humanitarian initiatives aimed at orphans, students, low-income families, and the care of prisoners’ families, alongside assistance for children, the elderly, the disabled, and widows amidst humanitarian cases.
Sports, particularly traditional sports, also receive significant focus under His Highness. The emirate hosts camel and equestrian races, marine competitions, and Arabian horse beauty contests, showcasing a commitment to preserving cultural heritage.
Sheikh Hamid is renowned for his distinguished morals, wise judgment, and visionary outlook—qualities that inspire the people of Ajman to emulate in their daily lives. He emphasizes the importance of instilling values of religion, virtue, and responsibility in his children, fostering a deep connection to their community and national pride.
Marked by humility and close engagement with citizens, Sheikh Hamid shares in their joys and sorrows, continuously attending to the needs of the sick and those in difficulty, extending his concern to residents from various nationalities to ensure they experience a dignified life within the emirate.
With visions driven by His Highness’s leadership, Ajman continues its trajectory of growth and excellence, achieving consecutive successes across diverse fields. His efforts, complemented by those of his fellow rulers in the Supreme Council of the Federation, contribute significantly to the nation’s comprehensive development under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, bolstering the achievements and deepening the landscape of progress across the homeland.