Zayed’s Ambition Reaches for Space” — A Theatrical Epic Embodying a Founder's Dream and Preserving Cultural Heritage
Abu Dhabi – European Sun Channel:
**Sheikha Dr. Shamma bint Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan:
"The UAE Continues to Embody the Founding Fathers’ Values Under the Leadership of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed"
The National Theatre in Abu Dhabi hosted the premiere of the patriotic heritage play "Zayed’s Ambition Reaches for Space" yesterday, under the patronage and presence of Sheikha Dr. Shamma bint Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan, Chairwoman of the Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan Cultural and Educational Institutions.
The event was held in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and Youth and the Ministry of Education, and was attended by a wide array of cultural, educational, and social figures.
A National Initiative to Inspire the New Generation
This theatrical performance is part of a national initiative aimed at instilling values of ambition, innovation, and patriotism in children. The story follows an Emirati boy who dreams of becoming an astronaut, inspired by the late founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s vision of space exploration and human development.
Sheikha Dr. Shamma: "This Play Is a Voice of a Nation and a Window to the Future"
In her opening remarks, Sheikha Dr. Shamma expressed her pride in this meaningful production, stating:
"Today, I stand before you at the performance of Zayed’s Ambition Reaches for Space. This work is not merely a script—it is a cry of hope, the voice of a nation, and a window through which our children can see that science and heritage are wings that can lift us into the future."
She added that the play reflects the vision of a nation that has transformed dreams into reality.
“Dreams begin with awareness, and when knowledge is rooted in heritage, it expands into boundless horizons.”
She emphasized the legacy of Sheikh Zayed:
“He did not just dream of building a country—he envisioned building the Emirati human. A person who understands that civilization is built through knowledge, that values are not restrictions, but gateways to a greater humanity. Heritage is not a wall, but a bridge between past and future."
Carrying the Legacy Forward Under the Leadership of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed
Sheikha Dr. Shamma affirmed that the UAE, under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, continues to uphold the enduring values laid by the founders:
“His Highness placed in our hands a collective responsibility when he said: ‘The UAE is a precious trust handed down from our fathers and forefathers, and we will pass it on to our sons and grandsons.’
The nation belongs not to one generation, but is an ongoing covenant—a legacy passed not as paper, but as awareness, responsibility, and vision."
She addressed the young Emiratis in the audience:
“Dear children, the message of this play is clear: Raising the UAE flag in space begins with raising your willpower—in the classroom, at home, and in every field.
Your commitment to your values and your leadership’s vision—centered on education and human development—is the surest path to a future filled with innovation, artificial intelligence, and limitless knowledge. Education is not a choice—it is the only way to thrive in a rapidly changing world.”
"True Art Awakens Awareness and Plants Questions in the Mind"
Sheikha Dr. Shamma highlighted the transformative power of art:
“Real art awakens consciousness and stirs questions. It doesn’t end when the curtain falls—it leaves a mark, a question in our minds as we walk away.
If our children leave today asking about science, the future, and the nation—with wonder in their eyes and dreams in their hearts—then art has fulfilled its purpose.”
She encouraged the audience to carry this message home, emphasizing that art’s true value lies in its ability to expand minds and prepare future generations for a dream bigger than imagination.
In conclusion, she expressed heartfelt thanks to the entire team:
“I extend my gratitude to everyone who contributed to this inspiring work. You brought the dream to life—thank you for turning words into a living, breathing vision on stage."
She ended with a powerful message to the children of the UAE:
"The nation is an ongoing project, built daily with knowledge and action. And with you, the sons and daughters of Zayed, the dream lives on… and ambition will always reach for the stars.”
Mohamed Adeeb Hijazi: “Investing in Children’s Culture Is the True Investment in the Nation”
Mr. Mohamed Adeeb Hijazi, Chairman of HRE Real Estate Development and the visionary behind this initiative, shared his pride in supporting this national cultural project:
“The values instilled by the late Sheikh Zayed are timeless, inspiring generations to dream, lead, and achieve. Under the wise leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, these values continue to guide the UAE’s path forward.”
He emphasized the educational and patriotic role of the play, which will be presented to school students across all Emirates:
“Zayed’s Ambition Reaches for Space is more than a performance—it’s a message of loyalty, creativity, and national identity, embedded in the hearts of our youth.”
He added:
“Investing in children’s culture is the most genuine form of investing in our future. Supporting education and cultural awareness is a core value of our company’s commitment to Emirati society.
Development is not measured by buildings alone, but by the minds and hearts we nurture with knowledge, values, and vision.”
A Theatrical Journey Blending Heritage and the Future
The play delivered a vibrant theatrical experience, blending Emirati heritage with futuristic aspirations, wrapped in a storyline filled with emotion, purpose, and national pride. It underscored the UAE’s unwavering determination to lead in innovation and human development.
Honoring the Dream-Makers
At the end of the performance, Sheikha Dr. Shamma honored Mr. Mohamed Adeeb Hijazi, the creative team, and the organizing committee, in appreciation of their remarkable efforts in bringing this national work to life.
The audience responded with deep admiration, describing the play as a meaningful artistic and educational message that echoes the values of Sheikh Zayed, inspiring generations to follow his path—towards space, progress, and global leadership .
