Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan

Notable Quotes

“Protecting children from preventable diseases is a duty we all share, regardless of borders or politics.”

from Polio eradication at a funding crossroads · Updated May 10

On Abu Dhabi’s role: “Our goal is to convene partners, unlock resources, and ensure that no child is left unvaccinated because they were born in a conflict zone or a poor community.”

from Polio eradication at a funding crossroads · Updated May 10

Stories

Iran strikes on the United Arab Emirates

Force in Play

Coordinating Gulf response with Saudi Arabia; warning of regional escalation

Iranian strikes on the UAE resumed on May 4, breaking the April 8 ceasefire, then expanded into the Strait of Hormuz three days later. Iran attacked three US Navy destroyers on May 7; the US struck back the same day, hitting IRGC missile and drone facilities at Qeshm Island and Bandar Abbas.

Updated May 31

Polio eradication at a funding crossroads

Money Moves

Host and convener of high-profile polio funding drives

Global donors pledged US$1.9 billion to the Global Polio Eradication Initiative at an Abu Dhabi pledging event on 8 December 2025, temporarily stabilizing a campaign facing a 30% budget cut in 2026 and a multi-year gap. The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation pledged US$1.2 billion and Rotary International pledged US$450 million, narrowing the 2022–2029 funding shortfall to roughly US$440 million but leaving a gap. Wild poliovirus transmission has resurged in Afghanistan and Pakistan as vaccine-derived polio sparks outbreaks in under-immunized communities worldwide.

Updated May 10