Sheikh Mohamed establishes Zayed the Founder Day for January 7
President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has established Zayed the Founder Day, a new annual national occasion honouring the life, leadership and values of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE’s Founding Father.
The first observance will take place on January 7, 2027, with schools, families, communities and institutions encouraged to participate.
The initiative aims to connect remembrance with everyday action, helping people understand how Sheikh Zayed’s principles shaped the country and how they can continue to influence its future.
Why January 7 was chosen
The date carries a connection to the formation of the UAE.
Written as 7/1, it represents seven emirates united as one nation. It also recalls 1971, the year the Union was established.
Its position at the beginning of the calendar year is intentional. As schools, workplaces and institutions begin a new year, the occasion will provide a shared moment to reflect on the Founder’s values and carry them into the months ahead.
Keeping Sheikh Zayed’s values part of daily life
Sheikh Mohamed described his father’s legacy as central to the country’s identity and continuing development.
“The legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed is deeply rooted in the identity of the UAE,” he said.
He highlighted Sheikh Zayed’s belief in unity, people, giving and responsibility towards future generations as foundations upon which the country was built.
Zayed the Founder Day will encourage people to consider those principles through experiences and programmes that connect his life and achievements with contemporary society.
The emphasis is on giving that history a practical relevance: understanding the choices behind the nation’s development and considering how the same values can inform individual contributions today.
A shared occasion across generations
Young people will be a central focus, with opportunities to explore Sheikh Zayed’s leadership and the ideas that guided him.
The occasion is intended to be inclusive and accessible to people of all ages, nationalities and backgrounds, reflecting his emphasis on respect, dignity, understanding and cooperation.
Schools, families and community organisations will have a role in bringing that history to different audiences. The initiative also aims to deepen international understanding of Sheikh Zayed and his influence beyond the UAE.
Activities will continue throughout the year
January 7 will serve as a focal point for initiatives across education, culture, research, community participation and public engagement.
Projects and activities will extend throughout the year, with the annual occasion providing an opportunity to launch new programmes and showcase work connected to the Founder’s legacy.
The initiative is led by The Founder’s Office, whose mandate includes preserving Sheikh Zayed’s legacy, enriching understanding of his life and encouraging public engagement with his values.
Its work will connect the annual observance with longer-term programmes, giving communities opportunities to participate beyond a single date.
