Sheikh Tahnoon Bin Mohammed Al Nahyan: A Stalwart Of UAE's Development Journey

The United Arab Emirates mourns the loss of a distinguished leader, Sheikh Tahnoon bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, who passed away today. Known for his significant contributions and leadership roles within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Tahnoon's legacy is marked by his tenure as Abu Dhabi Ruler’s Representative in the Al Ain Region. His extensive career also saw him in pivotal positions such as Vice Chairman of the Executive Council of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), and Vice Chairman of the Supreme Petroleum Council.

In a tribute to his contributions, the road connecting Al Ain and Dubai was renamed in his honour in November 2018. Sheikh Tahnoon's familial ties further connected him to the UAE's founding history, being the brother-in-law of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan through his sister, Sheikha Hessa's marriage to Sheikh Zayed.

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Sheikh Tahnoon bin Mohammed Al Nahyan shared a close relationship with Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, learning from the Founding Father and gaining insights into the governance and development of Al Ain and its people. His initial appointment by Sheikh Zayed on September 11, 1966, as Chairman of the Department of Agriculture and Chairman of Al Ain Municipality, marked the beginning of a lifelong dedication to public service.

His role was instrumental in the formation of the United Arab Emirates, collaborating closely with Sheikh Zayed towards the Union's declaration on December 2, 1971. Prior to this, he served as Minister of Municipalities and Agriculture from July 1, 1971, and was appointed Ruler's Representative in the Eastern Region of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi on August 9 of that same year.

Sheikh Tahnoon's influence extended to various sectors through his appointments: as a member of the Board of Directors of the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development and Chairman of ADNOC in 1973, a member of the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority Board in 1974 with a renewal in 1980, Deputy Chairman of the Executive Council of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi in 1977, and a member of the Supreme Petroleum Council in 1988.

His direct communication and close ties with the people of Al Ain were hallmarks of his leadership style. Sheikh Tahnoon focused much of his work on addressing the concerns and participating in the joys and occasions of Al Ain's citizens.

Sheikh Tahnoon bin Mohammed Al Nahyan is survived by ten sons: Sheikh Saeed bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Sheikh Hamad bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Sheikh Sultan bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Sheikh Mansour bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Sheikh Ahmed bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Sheikh Hazza bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Sheikh Mohammed bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Sheikh Theyab bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Sheikh Khalifa bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, and Sheikh Zayed bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan. Each continues to contribute to their community and country in various capacities.

The passing of Sheikh Tahnoon marks the end of an era but his contributions will continue to be felt across the UAE. His dedication to public service and his role in shaping the modern landscape of Al Ain and beyond have left an indelible mark on the nation.

With inputs from WAM