Global Recognition for Influential Muslim Leaders: UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan Leaders Shine
Global Recognition for Influential Muslim Leaders: UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan Leaders Shine: In its recent study, the Royal Islamic Strategic Studies Centre in Jordan unveiled the list of the World’s 500 Most Influential Muslims in 2019, featuring prominent figures such as leaders from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan.
Highly regarded among the influential Muslims worldwide are His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, as well as His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.
The comprehensive list also includes other notable figures like Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, King Salman bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia, Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, Egyptian footballer Mohammed Salah, Islamic scholar Dr. Zakir Naik, and boxer Khabib Nurmagomedov, among others.
The study underscored Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid's impactful vision in transforming Dubai into a global business hub. It acknowledged his instrumental role in the development of iconic landmarks such as the Palm Islands, Burj Al Arab Hotel, Burj Khalifa, the Dubai World Cup, and the Godolphin Stables. Additionally, it highlighted his philanthropic endeavors, including the launch of Dubai Cares, benefiting over 18 million people across 53 countries since its establishment in 2007.
Similarly, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed was commended for his multifaceted contributions in political and military leadership, economic development, humanitarian efforts, and environmental conservation. His pivotal role in directing military campaigns against Houthi strongholds in Yemen as Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces was emphasized.
Under Sheikh Mohamed's leadership, the Abu Dhabi Council for Economic Development has been actively promoting youth entrepreneurship in the UAE. The study also lauded his substantial humanitarian contributions, citing donations of billions of dollars to various causes, including a noteworthy Dh55 million to the UN Global Initiative to Fight Human Trafficking and investments in vaccines for Pakistan and Afghanistan.
The think tank recognized Sheikh Mohamed's commitment to sustainable development, citing his advocacy for green technologies and a $15 billion pledge for the advancement of clean energy through solar, wind, and hydrogen power. Furthermore, the report highlighted his passion for falconry and dedication to the protection of falcons and other regional species.