Brief

Sheikh Mohammed praises UAE team, outlines future leadership principles

In a letter to his work team, the ruler of Dubai highlighted the role of government employees as leaders and set out adaptability, empowerment and faster decision‑making as key traits for the future.

By Felo News Desk · Published Mon, 28 Sep 2026 20:37:53 GMT

In a letter titled “A Message to My Work Team” published as part of his new book, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum thanked the government employees who have helped implement the UAE’s plans and improve people’s lives. The ruler of Dubai described them not simply as public servants but as leaders who have driven the country’s development journey.

He posed a central question about the kind of leader needed in the new era, noting that technology, productivity, employment and political decision‑making are increasingly intertwined. “The leader of the future is not simply someone who understands change, but someone who can work amid all this complexity,” he wrote.

Sheikh Mohammed outlined three principles he believes will define successful leadership in a rapidly changing world: adaptability, empowering people and making decisions faster. He urged government teams to embrace these traits to navigate the complexities of the future and its profound transformations.

Key facts

Sheikh Mohammed thanked government employees for their role in UAE development (khaleejtimes.com)
He described them as leaders rather than mere public servants (gulfnews.com)
He outlined three leadership principles: adaptability, empowerment and faster decision‑making (gulfnews.com)
The letter is part of his new book titled "The Messages" (gulfnews.com)
Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the increasing interconnection of technology, productivity, employment and politics (khaleejtimes.com)

Background

The letter follows the recent death of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and the UAE’s humanitarian efforts in Gaza, events that have underscored the importance of strong leadership in the region.

Why it matters

The message signals a shift in how the UAE views its civil service, emphasizing leadership qualities that align with the country’s rapid development and global ambitions.