Al Shindagah

Al Shindagah | Issue 138 | 11 a successful future for ourselves. He exceeded all expectations,” Al Habtoor said. Khalifa Al Nabooda recounted a story when Sheikh Rashid took him to Rashid Port, which at the time was not utilized to its full capacity, and told him his vision to make Dubai a transportation hub. “He had foresight and vision,” he said. “He laid the foundations for Jebel Ali Port and paved the way for immense economic growth… Sheikh Rashid was always thinking ahead. He had many more big plans for Dubai before he died.” Al Habtoor added, “Dubai is the jewel of the Gulf because of Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed’s vision. His planned not just for his lifetime but for generations to come. He saw the potential of the city long before anyone else, and he grasped every opportunity.” Abdul Ghaffar Hussein said Sheikh Rashid had rare qualities. “He would communicate with everybody. His daily schedule was full of interaction with people from all walks of life… He let everyone have a voice… He was a true statesman.” Khalifa Al Nabooda added, “Sheikh Rashid would listen to everybody and had this rare ability to make everyone feel like they were the most important person in the room.” Hamad bin Sougat, who would often ride with Sheikh Rashid, reminisced about their time in the desert. “When riding or walking with Sheikh Rashid we would see his projects come to fruition around us. He made Dubai what it is today… We are very fortunate that both Sheikh Rashid and Sheikh Zayed were great visionary leaders. They complemented each other. Neither had any qualities missing.” Dates for Open Talk 6 will be announced soon via Al Habtoor’s social media platforms, and KAH Publications.