​ 1.

Humble Beginnings: Despite being a key figure in the development of the

UAE, Sheikh Zayed came from relatively humble beginnings. He was born in a
simple desert environment and was known for his connection to the
traditional Bedouin way of life.
​ 2. Military Service: Sheikh Zayed had a brief military career in his youth. He
served in the British Trucial Oman Scouts, a paramilitary force that patrolled
the emirates before the formation of the UAE.
​ 3. Equestrian Passion: Sheikh Zayed had a deep love for horses and was an
accomplished equestrian. He actively participated in traditional Arabian horse
racing and breeding.
​ 4. Language Skills: Fluent in both Arabic and English, Sheikh Zayed was
known for his effective communication skills. His proficiency in English
facilitated international relations and diplomatic engagements.
​ 5. Early Diplomatic Experience: Before becoming the Ruler of Abu Dhabi,
Sheikh Zayed gained diplomatic experience by representing his father, Sheikh
Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in various meetings with British officials and
other leaders.
​ 6. Initiatives for Women: Sheikh Zayed was a proponent of women's rights and
education. Under his leadership, initiatives were launched to enhance
women's access to education and healthcare in the UAE.
​ 7. Personal Donations: Sheikh Zayed was known for his personal donations to
various causes. He often gave away a significant portion of his income to
support charitable and developmental projects both within the UAE and
globally.
​ 8. Anti-Apartheid Stance: Sheikh Zayed was a vocal opponent of apartheid in
South Africa. He actively supported the anti-apartheid movement and
provided financial aid to those struggling against racial discrimination.
​ 9. Falconry Enthusiast: Falconry is an important cultural tradition in the UAE,
and Sheikh Zayed was an avid falconer. He contributed to the preservation of
falconry as a cultural heritage.
​ 10. Conservation Efforts: In addition to his environmental initiatives, Sheikh
Zayed was involved in the conservation of endangered species. His efforts
helped establish wildlife reserves and protect the natural biodiversity of the
region.