Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan (often referred to as MBZ) is the Crown Prince of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and the de facto leader of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Born on March 11, 1961, he is the son of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder of the UAE, and the brother of the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who served as President of the UAE until his passing in 2022.
Sheikh Mohamed has been a transformative leader, playing a pivotal role in shaping the UAE's domestic policies, economic development, and foreign relations. His leadership is marked by a strong emphasis on modernization, technological innovation, and military strength, while maintaining a balance between tradition and progress. Under his leadership, the UAE has expanded its global influence, notably through diplomacy, defense cooperation, and humanitarian efforts.
He has been instrumental in diversifying the UAE's economy away from oil dependence, promoting renewable energy, innovation, and investment in sectors such as artificial intelligence and space exploration. Sheikh Mohamed also prioritizes social reforms, including advancements in healthcare, education, and women's empowerment.
As a key figure in Middle Eastern geopolitics, Sheikh Mohamed has played a significant role in regional stability and security, often taking bold stances on key issues such as the conflicts in Yemen, Libya, and Syria, and working to strengthen relations with Western and regional allies.
In addition to his leadership, Sheikh Mohamed is also recognized for his philanthropic work, both within the UAE and internationally, with a focus on humanitarian aid, development, and promoting peace.