In a heartfelt message from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, a deep expression of trust and pride is conveyed to Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance. This message is part of Sheikh Mohammed’s book “Messages,” which encapsulates six decades of public service and provides a significant reference for future generations.
A Testament to Achievements and Responsibility
In his correspondence, Sheikh Mohammed commends Sheikh Maktoum for his steadfastness and the accomplishments he has achieved both at the federal and local levels. The letter highlights Maktoum’s integral role as a protector of their legacy, city, and the nation. Sheikh Mohammed praises him as a silent pillar of the homeland, acknowledging his dedication to serving the people with sincerity, while supporting the monumental architecture of Dubai through tireless effort.
Words of Confidence and Acknowledgement
Sheikh Mohammed’s message reads:
“To Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.. my son, support, trust, and backbone.. To Maktoum, the guardian of our legacy, our journey, our heritage, and our city..”
He expresses his confidence in Maktoum and his pride in his work, stating, “Your accomplishments in managing the federal budgets and the economy of Dubai have been remarkable. You have led the judiciary with fairness, balancing responsibilities with excellence.”
Lifelong Lessons and City Growth
Alongside commendations, Sheikh Mohammed shares key insights gleaned from life, underscoring the importance of ambition as a driver of city growth. He reflects, “Cities do not thrive merely on accumulated experience; they prosper through mounting aspirations. The most successful cities throughout history have been those that attracted ambition—be it from scholars, traders, pioneers, or adventurers.”
The Essence of Successful Cities
Furthermore, Sheikh Mohammed emphasizes the necessity for cities to cultivate environments where wealth interacts with ideas and institutions. He encourages Maktoum to learn from historical roles of cities like Baghdad, Athens, and Venice, which flourished through public engagement with talent and opportunity. He asserts, “The successful cities are those that provide a vibrant environment for wealth and knowledge to interact.”
Every Experience Matters
Sheikh Mohammed illustrates how ports and airports serve not only as conduits for goods but also as gateways for knowledge and innovation. He underlines, “Governments play a crucial role in creating these environments, attracting dreamers, and fostering an atmosphere of true tolerance that embraces diverse talents and skills.”
Resilience Amidst Challenges
Looking at the geopolitical challenges facing the region, Sheikh Mohammed expresses unwavering confidence in the established model of development in Dubai, stating that their core values remain steadfast, leading to continual innovation and progress. He asserts, “Our audacity in experimentation, coupled with an openness to knowledge and collaboration, positions us to thrive despite obstacles.”
A Call to Action for Future Generations
In his ultimate encouragement to Maktoum, Sheikh Mohammed reflects on lessons learned through life’s journey, asserting that cities do not decline solely due to external pressures but from within when they stagnate, embrace pessimism, and close off to new ideas. He concludes with a powerful reminder to remain committed to exploration, openness, and knowledge exchange, reinforcing the belief that every individual contributes to the collective success.
“Maktoum, your presence alongside me lightens the burden of responsibility and instils a sense of reassurance, sparking immense optimism for the future of Dubai and its rightful place in the world,” Sheikh Mohammed concludes, echoing the spirit of collaboration and progress that defines their shared journey.