I think Sheikh Zayed is the Best Modern Arab Leader, but when I was in the UK, I had a conversation that stuck with me. A Khaleeji argued that Saddam Hussein was the greatest modern Arab leader, not because of what he built, but because he was “brave” and “he fired 50 missiles at Israel.” That explained a lot about why our region struggles. And it’s not just about builders vs destroyers. Many are obsessed with the image of “bravery” and “warrior mentality” that it blinds them from the truth, and this mindset is the default Regional mindset. People glorify anyone who shouts “death to Israel,” blindly ignoring the bloodshed, invasions, and suffering they’ve caused across the region. Real leadership isn’t measured by how loud you threaten, it’s measured by what you build. One built a nation people want to live in. The other left behind wars, graves, and generations suffering. The problem in our region isn’t just bad leaders, it’s people who romanticize them. Saddam, Khamenei… same mindset, different faces. Regimes built on blood, hiding behind slogans. Now I ask you a question: If you had to choose a leader for your country… Sheikh Zayed or Saddam Hussein?

Wishing Her Excellency Lana Nusseibeh the very best of luck. Hopefully she succeeds and continues to make the UAE proud, just as she has already done through her outstanding representation of our nation at the UN. 🇦🇪🇺🇳