The Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation organised a lecture and book signing ceremony for “Witness to the Era of Zayed” by Abdul Ghaffar Hussein, on Wednesday evening, April 4, 2024. The esteemed event was graced by the presence of Dr. Fatima Al Sayegh, a member of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees, alongside Emirati and Arab cultural luminaries, a diverse audience of avid culture enthusiastic, media figures, and other distinguished guests.Top of Form
The lecture was skillfully moderated by Emirati author and publisher Jamal Al Shehhi, who eloquently introduced Abdul Ghaffar Hussein and shed light on the significant milestones of his life, notably his pioneering role as the UAE’s first literary critic. Al Shehhi underscored Hussein’s professional journey, from his notable contributions to Dubai Municipality to his pivotal role in establishing the prestigious Sultan Ali Al Owais Cultural Award.
With a profound presence in the cultural and public spheres of the UAE, Abdul Ghaffar Hussein boasts a remarkable portfolio of distinguished books that have significantly enriched the cultural landscape and contributed to the wealth of Emirati and Arab literary heritage.
Abdul Ghaffar Hussein passionately discussed his book “Witness to the Era of Zayed,” emphasizing its illuminating portrayal of various facets of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s personality. The book is meticulously structured, divided into distinct sections such as “Sayings of Zayed”, “Sheikh Zayed: The Able Captain,” and “Sheikh Zayed: The Leader and Statesman” delving into different aspects of his leadership and statesmanship. Hussein’s narrative branches into detailed explorations of Sheikh Zayed’s roles, including his political leadership, military prowess, and his pivotal contributions to the formation and consolidation of the UAE.
The book delved into the personality of the late Sheikh Zayed, the political leader and the nucleus of formation of the UAE Armed Forces, and the steps towards the establishment of the Union. In his book, Abdul Ghaffar Hussein highlighted the solidarity combined the late Sheikh Zayed and the late Sheikh Rashid to confront the ambitions and greediness of others and finally the creation of the federal model.
From his strategic vision in establishing the armed forces to his collaboration with Sheikh Rashid Al Maktoum to navigate regional challenges and foster a robust federal model, Hussein’s work offers a comprehensive insight into the remarkable legacy of Sheikh Zayed.
During his lecture, Abdul Ghaffar Hussein delved into Sheikh Zayed’s pivotal role in the pre-establishment phase of the Union, exploring his contributions to the formation of the Gulf Union. He also delved into Sheikh Zayed’s ambitious political initiatives and his deep-rooted connection with the environment.
Hussein further elaborated on Sheikh Zayed’s remarkable achievements, including his diplomatic endeavors in Egypt and various other topics that shed light on the multifaceted personality of the esteemed leader, Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
The 234-page book offers readers a comprehensive exploration of Sheikh Zayed’s life and legacy. It features a plethora of photographs capturing Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan alongside other esteemed sheikhs and influential personalities of the time, providing a visual journey complementing the rich narrative within the pages.
The book starts with an introduction penned by His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence.
The introduction reads: “I am pleased and honored to present this valuable book, “Witness to the Era of Zayed” which delves into significant aspects of the life and history of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, founder of the UAE. I am also delighted to extend my greetings and congratulations to the author of this book, dear brother Abdul Ghaffar Hussein. We all know him as a distinguished writer and successful businessman who was present at the founding of the Union State and actively participated in its victorious journey. He has been a faithful witness to the events that have unfolded over more than 50 years. We have always admired his deep-seated love and passion for his homeland, his nation, and its leaders and symbols. Additionally, his profound pride in the history of the UAE, its heritage, and its successive achievements in all fields is evident.”
“I am genuinely delighted to have had the opportunity to read this exceptional book. What brings me immense joy is witnessing the profound respect and genuine love the author holds for Sheikh Zayed, as well as his deep pride in his national identity and unwavering loyalty to our beloved country. “Witness to the Era of Zayed” eloquently portrays the late Sheikh Zayed as an exceptional leader and a wise president. Through its smooth language and honest, captivating presentation, the book illustrates how Sheikh Zayed’s leadership left an indelible mark on all facets of progress and development in our generous nation. He dedicated himself to spreading goodness and prosperity throughout his homeland, fostering pride and dignity among his people and nation,” Sheikh Nahyan said.
Abdul Ghaffar Hussein’s deep knowledge and intimate understanding of the late Sheikh Zayed, coupled with his profound insights into the UAE’s history and heritage, have enabled him to skillfully depict the virtues and qualities of the late Sheikh Zayed as an exemplary figure of greatness. Sheikh Zayed’s profound love for his people and his homeland shines through the pages of the book, and it is evident that this affection was reciprocated by the people. With unwavering dedication and diligence, Sheikh Zayed worked tirelessly to ensure the success and prosperity of the UAE, transforming it into a leading nation recognized globally for its continuous achievements across all domains.
The UAE, under his leadership, not only stands as a beacon of success in the Arab world but also as a testament to the legacy of Sheikh Zayed—a legacy characterized by goodness, resilience, and unparalleled achievements that continue to be celebrated and revered by people worldwide.
The multifaceted narrative within this book, penned by a prominent witness to historical events, delves into various aspects of Sheikh Zayed’s life and accomplishments. It provides insights into his formative years in the city of Al Ain, his pivotal role in building the nation, and his collaborative efforts with his late brother, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, in establishing the Union.
Furthermore, the book highlights his remarkable achievements in transforming arid deserts into lush green oases, his unwavering commitment to fostering security and safety, and his profound dedication to education, culture, and heritage. Sheikh Zayed’s visionary reliance on science, technology, and constructive international relations as instruments for progress and development also features prominently in the narrative.
Above all, this book serves as a poignant reminder of our gratitude to Allah for blessing us with the honorable rulers of the UAE, exemplified by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE, who steadfastly follow in the footsteps of the UAE’s founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed. They are exhibiting a clear vision for the future, a commitment to achieving comprehensive and sustainable development across the nation, and a steadfast determination to contribute effectively to global progress.
Abdul Ghaffar Hussein is impeccably qualified to author this book, drawing from a life deeply intertwined with the UAE’s journey since its inception in 1971. He epitomizes the quintessential national persona, characterized by unwavering loyalty to the country’s leaders and symbols, and a profound connection to the UAE’s rich history, heritage, achievements, and values of peace, harmony, and solidarity. As one of the faithful Emiratis, his steadfast commitment to the nation’s past, present, and future is a source of immense pride. With extensive experience spanning various domains including economics, business administration, and public service, Abdul Ghaffar Hussein enjoys a sterling reputation in the UAE and beyond.
Abdul Ghaffar Hussein’s expansive perspective and sagacious insights, coupled with his unwavering commitment to advancing initiatives aimed at uplifting the nation and its people, are qualities often lauded by his friends and readers. It is these very attributes that lend credence to this book, rightfully positioning it as a testament to a profound understanding of the magnificence of the UAE’s leadership, its people, and the remarkable history of the nation, underscored by its myriad achievements across diverse domains.
In conclusion, Sheikh Nahyan expressed his gratitude to Abdul Ghaffar Hussein and conveyed his personal delight in perusing the book, reflecting on its evocative images, poignant anecdotes, and captivating verses, notably including the exquisite poem “To Zayed’s Soul” penned by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice- President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
Sheikh Nahyan expressed his utmost confidence that readers worldwide will derive immense enjoyment from delving into this book, discovering its myriad illuminating facets of the personality of Zayed, a historical figure whose profound influence extends to shaping the trajectory of the UAE, the region, and indeed, the entire world. He concluded with a heartfelt supplication, asking Allah to shower His mercy upon the late Sheikh Zayed and grant him a place in paradise.
At the end of the lecture, Abdul Ghaffar Hussein signed numerous copies of his book “Witness to the Era of Zayed” for the attendees, who eagerly sought to capture the moment with memorial photos alongside the esteemed author.
The event, hosted by the Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation, served as a commemoration of the late Sheikh Zayed’s enduring legacy and as invaluable contributions of Abdul Ghaffar Hussein to preserving and celebrating the UAE’s rich heritage and history.
Al Owais Cultural Foundation Launches “Witness to the Era of Zayed” book by Abdul Ghaffar Hussein
