The ruler of Dubai is paying tribute to the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi.

Today marks 12 years since HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum became vice president and prime minister of the UAE and ruler of Dubai.

But the Dubai ruler doesn’t want today to be all about him – instead, he has asked that we dedicate the occasion to another royal, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi.

That’s why last night you might have noticed some of Dubai’s most famous landmarks lighting up with the royal’s face, alongside a message of thanks.

The world’s tallest building paid tribute to the Crown Prince:

As did the Burj Al Arab:

This fleet of police cars was dedicated to Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed:

Signboards all over the city gave thanks to the royal:

In previous years, Sheikh Mohammed has dedicated his Accession Day anniversary to thanking the community. But this year, it’s touching to see the Dubai ruler dedicate the day to the Abu Dhabi Crown Prince, who also serves as Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.

Here is a video montage of the pair over the years:

“Few people know that HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed works 18 hours a day for the UAE, and few people know that his annual leave does not exceed a week, and few people know that millions of children around the world are benefiting from his generosity and giving, which he does without fuss, and few people see him awake at night, sitting with our soldiers and reviewing development plans, to ensure a better future for our country in the years to come,” Sheikh Mohammed explained in an open letter.

“Thank you, Mohamed bin Zayed, for containing the march, honouring the martyrs, consoling and comforting their families, and raising the banners of glory. Thank you, Mohamed bin Zayed, for your leadership, decisiveness and determination.”

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