The UAE Central Bank has rolled out something special—a pair of commemorative coins, one gold and one silver, to honor two giants in the nation’s history: Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum. These coins aren’t just shiny keepsakes; they’re a nod to the vision and grit of the men who turned a dream of unity into the thriving United Arab Emirates we know today. Launched as part of the “Zayed and Rashid” campaign, this initiative is all about keeping their legacy alive and sparking pride in every Emirati heart.
The Men Who Built a Nation
Picture this: it’s 1971, and the Arabian Gulf is at a crossroads. The British are pulling out, leaving the Trucial States to chart their own course. Enter Sheikh Zayed, the Ruler of Abu Dhabi, and Sheikh Rashid, the Ruler of Dubai. These two didn’t just talk about unity—they made it happen. On a February day in 1968, they met in the desert, shook hands, and set the wheels in motion for a federation that would become the UAE. By December 1971, after some tough negotiations, the United Arab Emirates was born, with Sheikh Zayed as its first President and Sheikh Rashid as a key architect.
Sheikh Zayed, often called the Father of the Nation, had a knack for bringing people together. He used Abu Dhabi’s oil wealth to build schools, hospitals, and roads, lifting the entire region. Sheikh Rashid, meanwhile, had a vision for Dubai that turned it into a global hub for trade and tourism. Their partnership wasn’t just about politics; it was about dreaming big and making those dreams real. The “Zayed and Rashid” campaign celebrates this spirit, reminding everyone what’s possible when leaders work together.
What’s Special About These Coins?
The UAE Central Bank has gone all out with these commemorative coins, and they’re as stunning as they are meaningful. Here’s the breakdown:
| Coin Type | Weight | Diameter | Design Features | Availability |
| Gold Coin | 40 grams | 40 mm | Front: Portraits of Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh RashidBack: UAE national emblem, “Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates” in Arabic and English | Exclusively at UAE Central Bank headquarters in Abu Dhabi |
| Silver Coin | 50 grams | 50 mm | Front: Portraits of Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh RashidBack: UAE national emblem, “Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates” in Arabic and English, “Commemorative Coin” in Arabic | Available on the UAE Central Bank’s website |
The gold coin is a real treasure, crafted from 24-karat gold and available only at the UAE Central Bank’s headquarters in Abu Dhabi. It’s the kind of thing you’d display proudly, knowing it’s a piece of history. The silver coin, made from 999 fine silver, is a bit more accessible—you can order it online from the Central Bank’s website. Both coins feature detailed portraits of Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid on the front, capturing their strength and wisdom. The back showcases the UAE’s national emblem—a falcon with spread wings, clutching a scroll and crossed swords—surrounded by the Central Bank’s name in Arabic and English. The silver coin also has the phrase “Commemorative Coin” in Arabic, adding a touch of distinction.
A Governor’s Perspective
Khaled Mohamed Balama, the Governor of the UAE Central Bank, didn’t hold back his enthusiasm for this project. “We proudly announce the release of these commemorative coins, which embody the meanings of loyalty and belonging to the national legacy left by the founding leaders, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, may their souls rest in peace,” he said. He went on to explain that these coins are part of the “Zayed and Rashid” campaign, which aims to “solidify the values of unity and development upon which our nation was founded” and shine a light on the milestones that defined these leaders’ journeys. It’s clear the UAE Central Bank sees this as more than a coin release—it’s a way to keep history alive.
More Than Just Coins
These commemorative coins are just one piece of a bigger puzzle. The “Zayed and Rashid” campaign is a nationwide effort to celebrate the UAE’s founding fathers through all sorts of events and projects. For example, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library in Dubai hosted a series of events called “Story of a Union” to mark UAE Flag Day, sharing the nation’s history with students and the public. Over in Hatta, the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) unveiled the world’s largest mosaic art installation at the Hatta Dam waterfall, featuring a historic photo of Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid from the early days of the UAE’s formation. These initiatives show how the campaign is weaving the leaders’ legacy into the fabric of everyday life, from art to education.
Why These Coins Matter
Imagine holding a coin that tells the story of a nation. That’s what these commemorative coins do. They’re not just for collectors or history buffs—they’re for anyone who feels a connection to the UAE’s journey. The gold and silver coins are like time capsules, capturing the moment when two leaders dared to dream of a united future. They remind us of the values that still guide the UAE: unity, progress, and a commitment to building something greater than the sum of its parts.
For Emiratis, these coins are a source of pride, a way to honor the men who laid the foundation for a country that’s now a global powerhouse. For visitors or admirers of the UAE, they’re a chance to own a piece of that story. And for collectors, they’re a rare opportunity to add something truly special to their collections, with the potential to grow in value over time—not just financially, but emotionally and historically.
How to Get Your Hands on Them
If you’re itching to own one of these commemorative coins, here’s the deal. The gold coin is exclusive—you’ll need to visit the UAE Central Bank’s headquarters in Abu Dhabi to get one. It’s a bit of a pilgrimage, but worth it for something this unique. The silver coin is easier to snag; just head to the Bank’s website and order online. Whether you’re in Dubai, London, or New York, you can have a piece of UAE history delivered to your door.
A Legacy That Lives On
The UAE Central Bank’s release of these commemorative coins comes at a time when the UAE is soaring to new heights, from cutting-edge technology to global diplomacy. Yet, it’s clear the nation hasn’t forgotten its roots. These coins, and auditioned for their role in uniting the emirates and fostering development. The UAE Central Bank’s initiative, through the “Zayed and Rashid” campaign, ensures that their legacy endures, inspiring future generations to carry forward their vision of a united and thriving nation.
So, whether you’re a proud Emirati, a history enthusiast, or a collector looking for something special, these commemorative coins are more than just metal—they’re a piece of the UAE’s heart and soul. Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of this legacy.
