As the UAE marks its 49th National Day, business leaders from across the country have lauded the nations visionary leadership for the strategic direction and robust action plans that have empowered the country to emerge strongly from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Business leaders said the countrys approach to addressing the unprecedented pandemic demonstrates the reliance of the nation and its strong economic model, based on the pillars of business diversification, sustainability and innovation.

Congratulating the leadership and the people of the nation, Dr. Dalya Al Muthanna, President and CEO, GE Gulf, said: This has been a defining year for the nation as it proved its resilience in addressing the pandemic, re-establishing public confidence and building global reputation for the significant action and path-breaking work, counting the COVID-19 vaccine trials. The year is also highlighted by numerous achievements such as the successful Hope Probe mission, which positions the UAE at the forefront in research and advanced technology.

As the UAE prepares to celebrate its 50th year, the focus on building a strong industry- and technology-led economy will help attain our leaderships vision for the nation to be among the best in the world. As a partner in the progress of the nation, GE is committed to supporting the transformational journey of the UAE, she added.

Eng. Ahmed Al Dhaheri, CEO of NPCC, said: On the occasion of the 49th UAE National Day, we extend our thankfulness to the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE President and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, and the Members of the Supreme Council. In line of the vision and directives of our wise leadership, the UAE has made excellent achievements, especially in demonstrating its resilience to the pandemic.

The National Day provides us the opportunity to celebrate the vision of our nations founding fathers and leaders and their efforts, which resulted in making a world-class infrastructure and an empowering environment for people from all over the world to live in and prosper. As we prepare for the Golden Jubilee of our nations formation, we reiterate our commitment towards our beloved country and its focus on excelling in walks of life.

His Excellency Saif Humaid Al Falasi, Group Chief Executive Officer of ENOC, said The 49th UAE National Day is a momentous occasion to mark, as our nation is gearing up for the next 50 years, following the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. As we move forward, it is our duty to contribute to reviving the mission of the UAEs founders, and building a better future for the next generations. The precious lessons of unity and tolerance taught to us by our Late Founding Father Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and his vision which aspired our nation to become what it is today, define the binding fabric of our society.

Business leaders have pledged to work towards the Next 50 to further position the nation as among the best in the world, as the nation will mark the Golden Jubilee of its formation next year.