Zayed Higher Organization and Trends launch a special episode of the "Al-Watheqa" podcast on the occasion of "Union Pledge Day".

Highlighting Family Ties Among Founding Leaders as a Key Pillar of the Union’s Strength

In celebration of Union Pledge Day and as part of a unique initiative that embodies the human spirit of national unity, Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination, in collaboration with TRENDS Research & Advisory, has launched a special and exceptional episode of its innovative documentary podcast, Al Wathiqa.

This episode sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of the UAE’s founding history — the familial relationships and marital ties among the founding leaders, which served as an emotional and human cornerstone for the Union’s formation.

This episode of “Al Wathiqa” tells a different story of the Union... the story of a single household united by kinship before geography brought them together. It affirms that national unity in the UAE was not merely born of political interests, but was deeply rooted in familial love, intermarriage, and bonds between leaders—connections that endured across generations to shape the UAE as a rare model of unity from the heart before it became a constitutional reality.

This unique episode also exemplifies the pioneering role of Zayed Higher Organization in media empowerment of People of Determination. Through its partnership with TRENDS Research & Advisory, the Organization launched “Al Wathiqa” as a podcasting platform that documents the UAE’s history in the voices of People of Determination—presented in a compelling narrative style that resonates with every Emirati heart, particularly among youth, who are the leaders of tomorrow.

Marriage Ties: A Hidden Secret of the Union
Through historical evidence and storytelling, “Al Wathiqa” illustrates how the intermarriages between the rulers of the seven Emirates were more than just family relations—they were part of a solid founding system built on trust and closeness among the founding rulers. These ties helped cement the concept of “We are one family,” as so powerfully expressed by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in his iconic phrase: “The house is united.”

At the climax of the episode, this phrase is not presented as a mere slogan, but as a lived reality for every Emirati citizen and resident. The episode explores how the founding leaders transformed these familial ties into bridges of trust, understanding, and solidarity that laid the strong foundations of the nation.

Genuine Media Empowerment of People of Determination
What makes this episode stand out is that it is presented by a team of five trained presenters with determination, who were prepared through specialized workshops organized by the foundation. This reflects the vision of Zayed Higher Organization in turning the concept of empowerment into real action—integrating People of Determination into the national cultural and media landscape.

This episode is part of the broader “Al Wathiqa” series, which includes 25 short episodes narrating key national and cultural milestones in the history of the UAE—from stories of the founding leaders and major heritage landmarks to social practices, the role of women, and scenes of contemporary renaissance.

The Voice of the Nation, Told by Those Who Believe in It
“Al Wathiqa” does more than recount history—it rekindles its spirit in the hearts of future generations. The project reflects Zayed Higher Organization’s commitment to the goals of 2025: Year of Community, by reinforcing national identity, empowering People of Determination as content creators and messengers, and involving them in documenting the nation's history through the lens of the modern era. Through this project, UAE history becomes a story narrated by those who embody perseverance, belonging, and willpower.