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Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region, received Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in Al Ain Region, on January 30, 2026, at the Al Dhannah Palace majlis in Al Dhafra Region. The high-level meeting between the two senior UAE leaders focused on various national issues and matters concerning citizens’ welfare, according to the state news agency WAM.
During the gathering, Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed and Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed exchanged cordial conversations with attendees in an atmosphere that reflected deep fraternal bonds and social cohesion. The leaders emphasized the importance of direct meetings in strengthening communication with citizens and reinforcing authentic Emirati values based on closeness, brotherhood, and consultation.
Leadership Consultation Strengthens National Unity
Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed highlighted President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s commitment to dialogue and consultation between leadership and citizens during the reception. This approach reinforces social cohesion, which serves as a foundation for consolidating stability and supporting comprehensive development across the UAE, the representative stated.
The meeting underscored the significance of direct engagement between UAE leadership and citizens as a pillar of the nation’s governance model. Such gatherings have long been part of Emirati political culture, providing channels for leaders to remain connected with community concerns and priorities.
Year of the Family Takes Center Stage
Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed emphasized the crucial role of families in achieving societal progress and advancement. He noted that strengthening family structures aligns with the UAE’s vision of building authentic Emirati families, in implementation of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed’s directives designating 2026 as the “Year of the Family.”
According to the announcement, the family is considered the fundamental pillar for society’s stability and prosperity. The Year of the Family initiative reflects the UAE government’s focus on social development alongside economic progress, recognizing that strong family units contribute to national resilience and cohesion.
Sustainable Development and Quality of Life Initiatives Discussed
The discussions covered multiple topics related to the UAE’s sustainable development trajectory and qualitative achievements across various sectors. Participants reviewed progress in developmental, social, and service fields that have been realized in recent years, the report indicates.
Additionally, the leaders explored ways to continue developing initiatives that enhance quality of life for UAE residents. The conversation addressed supporting social stability and consolidating sustainable development gains as national priorities moving forward.
The reception was attended by prominent figures including Sheikh Mohamed bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Sheikh Hazza bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and Sheikh Zayed bin Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of State, also participated alongside other sheikhs, ministers, officials, and tribal notables from Al Dhafra Region.
Meanwhile, such gatherings in Al Dhafra Region serve as important venues for maintaining the traditional majlis culture that characterizes Emirati governance. These forums allow leadership to remain accessible while addressing regional development priorities and citizen concerns in western Abu Dhabi.
Authorities have not announced specific follow-up meetings or timelines related to the initiatives discussed during this reception. However, ongoing consultations between regional representatives are expected to continue as part of the UAE’s approach to inclusive governance and sustainable development planning.
