H.H. Sheikh Mohammed opens FNC session

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has opened the new session of the Federal National Council (FNC).

It marked the start of the third ordinary session of the 18th legislative chapter of the FNC.

Sheikh Mohammed inaugurated the session on behalf of UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

"We renew our call for the Council to remain a true voice for the nation and its citizens, a steadfast supporter of the UAE government team, and a partner in advancing our economic progress, strengthening social cohesion, and shaping a promising future for generations to come," Sheikh Mohammed said in a post on the X platform.

The ceremony was attended by His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, along with Crown Princes, Deputy Rulers, dignitaries, civic and military officials, and members of the diplomatic corps.

شهدت اليوم افتتاح دور الانعقاد الجديد للمجلس الوطني الاتحادي نيابة عن أخي رئيس الدولة حفظه الله.
دعوتنا المتجددة للمجلس بأن يكون صوتاً للوطن والمواطن.. وأن يكون داعماً ومسانداً لفريق حكومة الإمارات.. وفي دعم مسيرتنا الاقتصادية وتماسكنا الاجتماعي ومستقبل أجيالنا القادمة. نسأل… pic.twitter.com/nQVXhB2YFa

— HH Sheikh Mohammed (@HHShkMohd) November 24, 2025

Saqr Ghobash, Speaker of the Federal National Council, delivered a keynote address, expressing gratitude to the leadership for their continued support, which he said has enabled Council members to carry out their responsibilities.

He said that 2025 has been an exceptional year for the UAE, marked by major achievements on all fronts.

The country strengthened its global standing in competitiveness, security, the economy, innovation, renewable energy, artificial intelligence and quality of life, and advanced among the leading states in soft power.

Ghobash added that the declaration of 2025 as the Year of Community and 2026 as the Year of the Family reflects the national focus on human values.

He noted that the approval of the federal budget for 2026, the largest in the history of the nation, confirms continued growth and confidence in national capabilities.

The FNC speaker also said that the UAE continues to play a leading role in promoting regional and global peace, supporting dialogue and coexistence, extending help to those in need, and maintaining its firm support for the Palestinian people.

He affirmed the commitment of the Council to its constitutional duties and to supporting the vision of the leadership in building a nation prepared for the future. He concluded with a prayer for the nation, its leadership, and its people.