Abu dhabi: In the presence of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai; H.H. Lieutenant General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, honoured high-achieving Union Teams as part of the UAE Government Annual Meetings 2025, held in Abu Dhabi.
According to Emirates News Agency, the Union Teams were recognised for their innovation, positive impact, and contributions to the UAE's international reputation, and were honoured at the event to highlight their achievements and role in advancing the nation's strategic goals. The ceremony was attended by prominent figures including H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council; H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE National Olympic Committee; H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority; and H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
H.H. Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan noted that the continued achievements of the Union Teams embody the team spirit and culture of excellence envisioned by UAE leadership. He emphasized that maintaining and boosting the UAE's regional and international competitiveness requires amplified efforts and a commitment to efficiency and excellence in all aspects of work.
Sheikh Saif bin Zayed remarked on the vision of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, which prioritize initiatives that have a positive impact, empower people, and enhance quality of life. He stressed the importance of cooperation and integration between government entities and national teams to realize this vision.
H.H. Sheikh Saif praised the efforts of the honoured Union Teams, including the UAE Mission to the UN in New York team, the UAE Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka team, and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre team, who have set an inspiring example of institutional excellence and achievement.
The UAE Mission to the UN team's efforts embodied the nation's identity and values of coexistence, tolerance, and inclusivity, while reflecting UAE diplomacy principles. The UAE has worked closely with UN members to foster international cooperation for innovative and sustainable solutions to security challenges during its 2022-2023 UN Security Council term.
The UAE Expo Office, responsible for the UAE's participation in Expo events, saw the UAE Pavilion at the Expo 2025 Osaka become the most visited national pavilion, with over 5 million visitors. The pavilion received prestigious awards, underscoring the UAE's commitment to openness and cooperation.
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre continues to reinforce the UAE's institutional excellence, welcoming millions of visitors and launching initiatives to foster tolerance and rectify misconceptions about religion. The Centre has become a benchmark for blending religion, culture, and tourism, demonstrating the UAE's leading diplomacy to high-profile visitors.