Saif Bin Zayed Honours High-Achieving Union Teams For Their Contributions To The UAE
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, attended a ceremony in Abu Dhabi honouring the Union Teams. These teams were recognised for their innovation and positive contributions to the UAE's global reputation during the UAE Government Annual Meetings 2025. The event celebrated their achievements and role in advancing national strategic goals.
H.H. Lieutenant General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, praised the Union Teams for embodying a spirit of excellence and teamwork that aligns with UAE leadership's vision. He emphasised the importance of enhancing regional and international competitiveness by committing to efficiency and excellence across all sectors.
The honoured Union Teams included the UAE Mission to the UN in New York, the UAE Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka team, and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre team. Their efforts have significantly contributed to promoting UAE's identity and values such as coexistence, tolerance, inclusivity, and unity on international platforms.
The UAE Mission to the UN played a crucial role during its 2022-2023 term on the UN Security Council. Amidst global security challenges, they worked to unify member votes and support Council resolutions. Their diplomatic efforts focused on dialogue and building consensus among nations.
The Expo 2025 Osaka team showcased exemplary teamwork by making the UAE Pavilion a major attraction with over 5 million visitors. The pavilion received prestigious awards like the Bronze Award from Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) for self-built pavilions and Best Staff Award at World Expo Awards 2025.
The UAE Expo Office serves as a national platform under Salama bint Hamdan Al Nahyan Foundation's sponsorship. It operates within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to lead UAE’s participation in Expo events globally, fostering progress through collaboration.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre Initiatives
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre aims to reinforce institutional excellence by blending religion, culture, and tourism. In 2024 alone, it welcomed over 6.5 million worshippers and visitors, earning recognition as a top landmark in both the Middle East and globally according to TripAdvisor.
To address religious misconceptions and promote tolerance, the Centre produced video series that garnered millions of views online. Additionally, initiatives like mobile libraries and volunteer programs were launched to enhance visitor experiences at the mosque.
H.H. Sheikh Saif highlighted that these achievements reflect President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Maktoum’s vision prioritising initiatives with direct positive impacts on people's lives. He stressed cooperation between government entities is vital for realising this vision effectively.
The ceremony was also attended by H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum; H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum; H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum; and H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
With inputs from WAM
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