UAE marks golden jubilee of its founding

SINCE its founding on Dec 2, 1971, the forward-looking and modern United Arab Emirates has been a shining star of highly successful economic and social development in the Middle East with many achievements in its 50 years long journey, thanks to the progressive outlook of its leaders.

Building on the legacy of the UAE's founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the nation building journey continues under the leadership of its President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The country's progress is reflected in a thriving nation that hosts people from more than 200 nationalities, has a 93 per cent literacy rate, and welcomes over 15 million tourists annually. Some 70 per cent of its university graduates are women, many of whom have been an integral part of the achievements of the UAE. The Emirati women have demonstrated their ability to lead and manage projects in sectors like advanced science, space, energy and health.