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Emiratis across the UAE pay tribute to a kind, generous leader.
As a pall of gloom descended on the UAE following the demise of Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Emiratis remembered the generous leader who had uplifted the lives of people in need. Beyond being the UAE’s finance minister since 1971 and Dubai’s deputy ruler, Sheikh Hamdan was known for his good deeds and charity work.
Putting it in perspective, Salam Al Kutbi, an Emirati journalist, said his kindness and remarkable humanitarian work touched the lives of hundreds and thousands of people. “All these people are in mourning today.”
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Mariam Sajwani, who works for Emirates NBD, said Sheikh Hamdan’s charitable initiatives embodied the UAE’s culture of giving. “His death is a huge loss to the UAE and the Arab world at large.”
Today was, indeed, a black day for the nation, said Soud Al Shamsi, who works for Sharjah Radio and TV. “Sheikh Hamdan would be remembered forever for his immense love for the country and all its people and residents, who call the UAE their home away from home.”
His humanitarian deeds even went past the Emirates’ borders, Al Shamsi said, noting the leader’s projects that extended all kinds of support to several countries in need.
Aisha Al Ajill, director of culture at the Sharjah Cultural Department, paid her tribute to the noble soul. “We wish that the Almighty will give him a place in paradise. His humanitarian work is legendary. He championed the cause of sustainable human development, which was based on dialogue and partnership.”
He was a role model for leaders and strengthened solidarity in the Emirati community, she added.
Mohammed Al Kabbi, who works at the Dubai Municipality, mourned the loss of one of the towering personalities in the UAE. “He’d always be remembered for his generosity, which benefited not just the UAE, but the Arab region and the world as a whole.”
Major Rashed Al Ghafri, who heads the General Department of Forensic Sciences and Criminology at Dubai Police, said: “We’ve lost a great character, who spent his life in developing his beloved country. We’ll never forget his immense contributions.”
Funeral prayers for Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid will be held in mosques across the UAE today, March 24. The absentee prayers will be offered after the Maghrib prayer. The actual funeral prayer over the late Deputy Ruler’s body will be limited to family members due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Afkar Abdullah
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