The United Arab Emirates is clad in mourning as the Presidential Court announced the demise of Sheikh Hazza bin Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, a respected member of Abu Dhabi’s ruling royal family, on Thursday. The cause of his passing was not disclosed, leaving the nation to speculate on what could have led to the sudden departure of such an influential figure. His death echoes the loss felt nearly three years prior when Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Sheikh Hazza’s father, also passed away in 2019.
Tributes and expressions of grief surged following the announcement as the nation grappled to come to terms with this tragic event. The National newspaper, a prominent media outlet in the UAE, cited the Presidential Court’s statement: “The Presidential Court extended heartfelt condolences and sympathies on the death of Sheikh Hazza bin Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, praying to Allah Almighty to shower the deceased with His vast mercy, grant him eternal paradise and provide his family and relatives with patience and solace.”
Although Sheikh Hazza bin Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s exact age was not disclosed, he was renowned across the equestrian community, revered for his exceptional skills in horse riding which he demonstrated at numerous national and international equestrian events. His involvement and passion for equestrian sports were seen as not just a hobby but also as a way to advocate and embody the cultural heritage of the UAE, promoting its values and traditions on a global stage.
The solemn funeral prayers for Sheikh Hazza were held at the Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed the First Mosque in Abu Dhabi, a fitting venue for a person of his stature to be paid respects. The funeral brought together the highest echelons of Abu Dhabi’s ruling class as they bid farewell to one of their own. The burial took place at Al Bateen Cemetery, where Sheikh Hazza was laid to rest in his final dwelling.
Amongst the mourners was Abu Dhabi’s crown prince, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the eldest son of the UAE president Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. His presence alongside several other members of the ruling Nahyan family underscored the depth of the loss within the royal family and the significant impact Sheikh Hazza’s passing has on the community.
Condolences also poured in from international leaders and dignitaries, further emphasizing Sheikh Hazza’s international reputation and the strong diplomatic ties the UAE holds with nations around the world. In an expression of solidarity and sorrow, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif shared his condolences publicly, “Deeply saddened to learn of the passing away of H.H. Sheikh Hazza bin Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan. I offer my profound condolences to H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and to members of the Royal Family, at this tragic news. May Allah SWT bless the departed soul with eternal peace in Jannah. Ameen!”
Sheikh Hazza’s passing not only signifies a personal loss to the Nahyan family but also marks a moment of bereavement for the United Arab Emirates as a whole. His contributions to the realms of equestrianism, his role in the royal family’s public engagements, and his overall presence will leave an indelible mark in the collective memory of the nation.
As the UAE observes a period of reflection and remembrance, the legacy of Sheikh Hazza bin Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan will continue to be honored and his life celebrated for the principles and passions he stood for. The sorrow felt today is paralleled by the enduring respect for a figure who has left this world but will forever be etched in the history of the UAE.
