Photo: AFP
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has released a new book titled “Life Taught Me” (in Arabic: Almatani Alhayah). The book documents his long journey of 60 years in public service, highlighting the lessons he has learned and the principles that guided his leadership.
This new publication has created much excitement in the UAE and beyond because it gives readers a closer look at Sheikh Mohammed’s personal experiences, values, and vision. It is not only about his achievements but also about the deeper wisdom he gained during decades of service to his country and people.
A journey through 60 years
Sheikh Mohammed’s life in public service began many decades ago. Over 60 years, he has seen the UAE grow from a small desert land into one of the most developed nations in the world. He has witnessed struggles, challenges, and major achievements.
In the preface of the book, Sheikh Mohammed reflects that these 60 years passed quickly, full of ups and downs—moments of joy, sorrow, victory, and difficulty. He writes that life has taught him many things and shaped who he is today.
He shares openly that he has made mistakes, faced obstacles, and learned lessons, just like any human being. But through it all, one thing never changed: his deep love for his country, his people, and his family.
What the book contains
“Life Taught Me” is the first part of a larger project. This first volume has 35 chapters, each one focusing on important moments and values from his journey.
Unlike many autobiographies that focus on events, projects, or positions of power, Sheikh Mohammed wanted this book to focus on ideas, values, and lessons. He explains that it is not about personal glory or achievements but about the knowledge and wisdom that life gave him.
The book emphasizes:
- Simplicity in words – Sheikh Mohammed writes in simple, clear language so that readers from all walks of life can understand.
- Honesty – He writes truthfully about his successes and struggles, avoiding exaggeration.
- Universal lessons – The values he shares are not only for leaders but for anyone who wants to live a meaningful life.
Sheikh Mohammed’s key messages
- In the book, Sheikh Mohammed shares several personal reflections:
- He has always loved his country, people, and family deeply, and this love guided all his decisions.
- He never intended harm toward anyone, never tried to take away others’ rights, and never oppressed the weak.
- He believes that the real legacy a leader leaves is not wealth or tall buildings, but knowledge, wisdom, and good words that last through time.
- Life is a continuous journey of learning. Nobody is perfect, and mistakes are part of growth.
- These lessons show Sheikh Mohammed not only as a leader but also as a human being who has learned from life’s experiences.
Why this book matters
For the people of the UAE, Sheikh Mohammed is not just a political leader but also a symbol of vision, progress, and hope. His leadership has shaped Dubai and the UAE into a modern, global hub.
By writing this book, he offers the younger generation a chance to learn directly from his thoughts. Many young Emiratis and people across the Arab world look up to him as a role model. This book is a way for him to pass on his knowledge, so that future leaders can benefit from his wisdom.
It also matters globally, as Sheikh Mohammed’s story shows how leadership with vision and compassion can transform a country in just a few decades.
The book’s style
Readers will find that “Life Taught Me” is not written in complicated academic style. Instead, Sheikh Mohammed wanted it to be accessible. The language is simple, warm, and easy to connect with. He uses clear expressions so that the message reaches the heart of the reader.
This is important because Sheikh Mohammed has always believed that communication should be direct and honest. Whether he is writing poetry, giving a speech, or sharing his vision, he wants people to feel the meaning immediately.
Release date and availability
The book is set to be available in bookstores from 25 September 2025. It will be published in Arabic first, and translations in English and other languages are expected later, so that a wider audience can benefit.
Many readers, scholars, and students are waiting eagerly to read the book, as it is expected to become a valuable resource not only in the UAE but also in the Arab world and beyond.
Reflections on legacy
One of the strongest themes in the book is the idea of legacy. Sheikh Mohammed explains that a leader’s true legacy is not in material wealth, but in the ideas and values that inspire others.
He says that knowledge is the best inheritance, because unlike wealth, knowledge cannot be lost or destroyed. It grows stronger as it is shared with others.
This message is especially powerful for young leaders who may believe that success is measured only in power or money. Sheikh Mohammed wants to remind them that success is also about serving others, sharing knowledge, and leaving behind wisdom that benefits future generations.
The wider impact
The launch of “Life Taught Me” comes at a special time, marking 60 years of Sheikh Mohammed’s public service. It is not only a personal reflection but also a record of an important period in the history of the UAE.
For readers, the book provides:
- Leadership lessons – about honesty, responsibility, and service.
- Personal growth lessons – about patience, learning from mistakes, and resilience.
- National lessons – about building a country with vision, love, and unity.
- These lessons go beyond the UAE and can inspire people in many parts of the world.
“Life Taught Me” is more than just a book. It is a reflection of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s long journey in leadership and life. It offers wisdom from 60 years of public service, shared with honesty and simplicity.
The book reminds readers that life is a teacher, and every moment, whether good or bad, has something to teach us. It shows that leadership is not only about power but also about compassion, knowledge, and responsibility.
As the book reaches shelves, it will serve as a source of inspiration for young people, leaders, and anyone who wishes to learn from the experiences of one of the Arab world’s most influential figures.
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