Top leaders of the United Arab Emirates have expressed sorrow over the passing of Pope Francis, remembering him as a symbol of compassion, humility, and interfaith harmony.
UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan conveyed his condolences to Catholics around the world, acknowledging the Pope’s life-long dedication to peace. “I extend my deepest condolences to Catholics around the world on the passing of Pope Francis, who dedicated his life to promoting the principles of peaceful coexistence and understanding. May he rest in peace,” he posted on X (formerly Twitter).
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, also shared a tribute. “We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, a great leader whose compassion and commitment to peace touched countless lives,” he wrote. “His legacy of humility and interfaith unity will continue to inspire many communities around the world.”
The UAE has maintained warm interfaith relations with the Vatican in recent years, highlighted by Pope Francis’ historic visit to Abu Dhabi in 2019—marking the first-ever papal visit to the Arabian Peninsula. During that trip, the Pope co-signed the Document on Human Fraternity with the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, a milestone in Muslim-Christian dialogue.
Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88, is remembered globally not only as the head of the Catholic Church but as a moral figure who championed peace, tolerance, and compassion across religious and cultural lines.
