H.H. Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan has attached special importance to the country's heritage and urged its preservation, as it represents the identity of man and because the past represents the life of our forefathers. Since man cannot arise from a vacuum, so H.H. Sheikh Zayed confirms that those without a past cannot have a present or a future.

     Zayed's concern has not remained a theoretical one. With great awareness and sensibility he has transformed this theory into practice. He has directly concentrated on the Youth so that they would be able to comprehend their splendid heritage and revive its contents and essence and learn it by heart. He wants the heritage to be reflected in their life, customs and in their special occasions. Ever since the Federation was established, H.H. Sheikh Zayed has been encouraging this trend financially and morally. He has fully supported all the heritage societies and encouraged the revival of old sports which we were proud of, such as Camel Racing, horse riding, and hunting, as well as boat racing, riffle shooting, diving and swimming.

     As a result of such support, and in execution of the directions of the Head of State, many heritage magazines have emerged, many heritage conferences, seminars and ceremonies have been organized. Newspapers have been full of articles highlighting the value, significant features, and functions of our heritage. It should always be remembered that Sheikh Zayed's idea is that the Youth must be profoundly aware of the value and dimensions of the heritage as it represents part of one's love of his country, and expresses respect and appreciation for our forefathers and ancestors who created the country's distinguished identity and devoted their lives to reaffirm the Islamic and Arab identity, which is considered as the guiding light to all good citizens.

Zayed's Award for Heritage and History

     When H.H. Sheikh Sultan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and President of the Emirates Heritage Club, announced the organization of an annual International Award called "Zayed's Award for Heritage and History", the main goal was to recognize H.H Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan's role in preserving the heritage and in considering it as part of the national wealth of the country. That is the reason why he is still calling us to adhere to our heritage, being the genuine roots of the history of the homeland and the nation at large.

     The prize is awarded to the best scientific or historical research on our heritage, or the history of the United Arab Emirates, conducted by individuals, bodies or research centers inside and outside the country.

     H.H. Sheikh Sultan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan reconfirmed the UAE's adherence to its genuine Arab heritage by saying: "The State spares no effort to document our heritage and provide all requirements necessary for the preservation and protection of heritage from extinction, based on directions from H.H. Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan; H.H. Sheikh Maktoum Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai; and H.H. Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces and Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi. Their sponsorship of all heritage activities and functions shows that heritage is a significant and integral part of UAE society through all time and ages." 

GULF HISTORY FORUM AND ZAYED HERITAGE CENTER

     Many scholars and learners admitted that Zayed is the determined guardian of Gulf heritage and the strong defender of its values, norms and customs.

     This view is not unfounded. It is absolutely true that His Highness considers that the preservation of heritage means the preservation of authenticity and that heritage is an expression of national awareness and a manifestation of progress and civilization.

     The President's belief in the importance of heritage is in line with his love for authenticity and for delving into the present and past cultural aspects, taking as point of departure the enduring Islamic principles.

     On the basis of this, many heritage societies have been established and supported in every way; therefore, heritage and study centers emerged to document and spread heritage among the generations.

      Zayed is determined to depict the past with all its deep-rooted and authentic values. He was the one who said: "A country without a past, has no future." Yes, past should be linked to the present and be used to realize a dignified life.

     In a speech at the opening ceremony of the Gulf Verbal History Forum, H.H. Sheikh Sultan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and President of the Emirates Heritage Club said: "The scientific, modern and civilization renaissance we are witnessing cannot be divorced from our ancient civilization; it is rather a natural extension of the heritage of our forefathers and ancestors who left us a great outstanding legacy in medicine, chemistry, astrology, mathematics and other sciences.

      His Highness added: "The progress of a nation cannot be solely assessed on the basis of its economic and social renaissance or adoption of state-of-the-art technology; the preservation of the heritage should be taken into account as well."

     The Leader of the March, Sheikh Zayed, believes in exploring history and heritage in pursuit of a brighter future, where work, construction and growth will be elevated.

     He also believes that heritage is one of the sources of knowledge. Therefore, its treasures and values relating to aesthetic and knowledge should be highlighted.