Gulf leaders congratulate Sheikh Mohamed on election as President of UAE

Sheikh Mohamed was elected by the Federal Supreme Council after death of Sheikh Khalifa

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed was elected President of the UAE on May 14, 2022. Ryan Carter / Crown Prince Court - Abu Dhabi

The leaders of Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait and Bahrain congratulated Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed on his election as President of the UAE on Saturday.

Saudi Arabia's King Salman sent a message offering Sheikh Mohamed "the most sincere fraternal congratulations" and asking God to help and support the UAE President for the service of the country and its people in order to continue the path of prosperity and development.

“We look forward to continuing work on cementing friendship and brotherhood relations between our two countries and peoples and promoting relations between the countries of the GCC and the Arab and Islamic nations,” King Salman said in his message, which was reported by the state SPA news agency.

In his message, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman wished Sheikh Mohamed health, happiness and success in leading the further development of the UAE.

Sultan Haitham of Oman sent a message expressing his heartfelt congratulations to Sheikh Mohamed, and wishing him success in leading the Emirati people to achieve more progress and prosperity, the Oman News Agency reported.

Kuwait's Emir Sheikh Nawaf also congratulated Sheikh Mohamed shortly after his election was announced, in a message wishing the new UAE President and the country well.

King Hamad of Bahrain wished Sheikh Mohamed success in achieving the aspirations of the Emirati people for more development, progress and prosperity, serving the causes of his nation and advancing the joint Arab and Gulf action.

Bahrain’s Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad sent a similar message.

Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim wished Sheikh Mohamed and the Emirati people more progress and growth, according to the Qatar New Agency.

Qatar's Deputy Emir Sheikh Abdullah and Prime Minister Sheikh Khalid also offered their congratulations to Sheikh Mohamed.

Nayef Al Hajraf, Secretary General of the Gulf Co-operation Council, expressed confidence that the UAE would continue its pioneering role and add to its achievements and successes under its new President.

“The UAE begins a new era and a historical phase under the leadership of Sheikh Mohamed,” Mr Al Hajraf said.

He also praised Sheikh Mohamed’s support for the GCC.

Sheikh Mohamed has become the third President of the UAE, following the death of Sheikh Khalifa on Friday.

He was elected president by the Federal Supreme Council, which comprises the rulers of each emirate.

The council held a meeting at Mushrif Palace in Abu Dhabi on Saturday, chaired by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai.

A statement by the Ministry of Presidential Affairs said Sheikh Mohamed was elected unanimously according to Article 51 of the Constitution.