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There are few leaders whose memories remain alive after they have passed away, and still fewer leaders whose names are connected with their countries during periods of great transition. In the passing away of Shaikh RashId Bin Saeed AI Maktoum the country has lost one of its great leaders who played an important role not only in founding the Federation but also looking after its progress with zeal and dedication.
Shaikh Rashid was a generous person and believed in doing good for all the sons and daughters of the country by distributing wealth and diversifying the resources of the national wealth. He sincerely believed in these ideals and endeavored to achieve them.
His helping hand extended to all parts of the country, from building houses, roadways, hospitals and educational projects. His contribution towards the development of Dubai including Dubai international Airport, Port Rashid, Jebel Ali Port and Free Trade Zone, the World Trade Centre, Shindagah Tunnel and many other projects.
His brothers, Shaikh Zayed Bin Sultan AI Nahyan and Their Highnesses the members of the Supreme Council the Rulers of the other Emirates -participated with him in taking decisions to construct a modern society and a better life for the people, not only in Dubai but in all the Emirates.
Along with the other rulers of the Emirates, Shaikh Rashid laid the foundation of a new federal experiment in the Gulf region. This was different from all the efforts for Arab unity made so far, in which the souls and hearts mingled for the interest of the people, and helped to achieve the goals they aspired for during the hard days. The establishment of the United Arab Emirates on December 2, 1971 was the fulfillment of that dream. He was the Vice President of the country from that date until his demise on October 7,1990.
Shaikh Rashid's intelligent and wise policies proved that UNITY is the best defence and protection.
He adhered to his motto in all his work "to build national capabilities and utilise the resources for the benefit of the people."
His Highness Shaikh Rashid Bin Saeed AI Maktoum was born in Dubai on 1912. He began his studies at an Elementary Religious School and later joined the Ahmadia School where he learnt Religious science (Fiqh) and Arabic Language in addition to history, geography and mathematics. He distinguished himself in his youth with perseverance and diligence. His high values and aims accompanied him throughout his life and his rule since he took over the regions of the Emirate of Dubai from 1958 until his demise in 1990.
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