Brief
Dubai ruler says trust, not water or AI, is the future currency
In a new excerpt from his book, Sheikh Mohammed explains why trust, not water, energy, AI or data, should be the focus for investors and governments.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler of Dubai and UAE Vice‑President and Prime Minister, shared an excerpt from his latest book, *The Letters*, on 11 October 2026. In the passage he argued that the currency worth betting on is "trust," dismissing suggestions that water, energy, artificial intelligence or data could fill that role.
What happened
During a gathering of friends and officials, participants offered water, AI, and energy as possible future currencies. When asked for his view, Sheikh Mohammed said trust is the only asset that can attract investors, secure partnerships in energy, AI and water, and keep markets stable. He linked trust to investor morale, legal compliance and credible news.
What the report adds
The Khaleej Times article notes that Sheikh Mohammed cited the 2026 Edelman Trust Index, which placed the UAE at the top globally for public trust in government. He also referenced an OECD study showing an average trust level of 39 % across 30 countries. The piece includes his comment that "once trust is lost, all of that is lost," underscoring the perceived fragility of economic stability.
What was said
Sheikh Mohammed told the audience, "The currency we are betting on is neither water, energy, artificial intelligence nor data, important as they all are. Trust will attract investors and talent in AI, bring us global partners in energy, and secure the best technologies and investments in water," as reported by Khaleej Times.
How it came about
The letter forms part of a series of personal communications from Sheikh Mohammed published in recent weeks. Earlier in September, he urged UAE youth to embrace AI while upholding values (Felo coverage). In late October he also paid tribute to his late mother in a heartfelt letter (Felo coverage). These writings reflect his broader strategy of using personal correspondence to shape public discourse on national priorities.
Key facts
- Sheikh Mohammed said trust is the future currency, not water, energy, AI or data. (khaleejtimes.com)
- He cited the 2026 Edelman Trust Index, which ranked the UAE first globally. (khaleejtimes.com)
- An OECD report found trust in governments averaged 39% across 30 countries. (khaleejtimes.com)
- The excerpt was published on 11 October 2026 in his book *The Letters*. (khaleejtimes.com)
Sources
- [1] khaleejtimes.com — originally reported as “What is the currency of the future? Sheikh Mohammed explains in new letter”
