The UAE government is setting up a memorial in the memory of the UAE’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan at Abu Dhabi as the country marks 'Year of Zayed' this year.

The memorial, which is being established in Abu Dhabi, commemorates the UAE’s founding father, his visionary leadership and his vast influence on his country and the wider world.  

Set to be inaugurated in 2018 to coincide with the Year of Zayed, marking the 100-year anniversary of Sheikh Zayed’s birth, The Founder’s Memorial will offer visitors a journey of discovery into the life and legacy of Sheikh Zayed.

In honour of the Year of Zayed declared by President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan for 2018, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, has named the permanent tribute to Sheikh Zayed as ‘The Founder’s Memorial’.

“Through the establishment of The Founder’s Memorial, it is our intention to foster connections with our nation’s founding father among future generations of Emiratis and for posterity, and to highlight his perceptive leadership to the whole UAE population by providing a place of gathering for the community in which to reflect and celebrate,” remarked Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs.

At the Welcome Centre, rarely-seen footage, personal stories, articles and artefacts will offer intimate insight into Sheikh Zayed and his character, enabling visitors to develop deeper connections with the visionary leader.

The landscaped area of the 3.3-hectare site will feature indigenous plants and shrubbery from the UAE and the Arabian Peninsula, in keeping with Sheikh Zayed’s commitment to nurturing local flora and fauna.

The space will also feature an elevated walkway with stunning views of the memorial’s central artwork, and beyond to the Abu Dhabi skyline.

Located at the intersection of first and second street along The Corniche in Abu Dhabi, The Founder’s Memorial will create an iconic national landmark for locals and residents of the UAE in the heart of the nation’s capital.-TradeArabia News Service