Statement from HH Sheikh Saud

From a young age, my father instilled in me the notion that the sole responsibility of a leader is to help create the conditions for all citizens to realize their potential. This conviction is apparent in his decision to join the federation of the United Arab Emirates in 1972, as well as his investment in the human capital of the Ras Al Khaimah by expanding primary and secondary education and funding the overseas studies of all students that showed academic promise.

It is my goal to continue the momentum generated by my father, and, in the process, transform Ras Al Khaimah. Our challenge has been to provide the opportunities for our fellow citizens to reach their full potential here in RAK. We are well on our way.

We have rapidly expanded educational offerings in RAK - from intensive pre-K in English and Arabic, through international baccalaureate curricula in high school to establishing nine campuses of international universities and counting. In addition, we are continuing our overseas scholarships program. Healthcare has also been a top priority. The number of hospitals has been doubled, 18 primary care clinics have been established and a fleet of mobile units now brings healthcare to remote regions.

Regardless of where they receive their education, residents need jobs to enable them to remain here to raise their own families. In the six years since I became Crown Prince, I have focused a on nurturing the companies that were already here and in attracting new enterprises to the area through innovative use of the RAK Free Trade Zone and the Investment Authority. This has ushered in an era of civilized competition within a transparent legal and regulatory environment that meets international compliance standards.

Together, through wise investment and innovative economic and social planning, we have altered the trajectory of our emirate. On behalf of my fellow citizens, I welcome any and all to see for themselves the warmth, beauty and promise of Ras Al Khamiah.