His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, was born in Al Ain on 11 March 1961. 

Today marks the 57th birthday of the >exceptional leader who is widely admired and loved by the people of the UAE and beyond. He is known for his passion for hunting and falconry, a love which was passed on to him by his father, the late >Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

Sheikh Mohammed also maintains a deep interest in poetry, especially that of the Nabati style, which is native to the region, and consistently demonstrates his commitment to educational, cultural, artistic, literary, and innovation-based initiatives in the country.

Here are seven wise quotes that define Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed's remarkable leadership:

1. MBZ's message to the next generation

"You must be better than us, and better than your fathers and grandfathers. This is not an option, you must do this."

2. On leadership

"Those who take the lead, take it by doing three things. First, science to be able to maneuver; second, knowledge to be able to heavily invest in education; and third, a very wise leadership with a clear vision and a roadmap to the right direction."

3. On knowledge and science

"We have to ensure the new generation is equipped with knowledge and science so they can represent our competitive advantage in front of the whole world. Our only choice is quality."

4. On the real wealth of the nation

"You are the real wealth, not the 3 million barrels of oil. You are the future of this nation’s security and safety net. We are in a good condition now but we want to establish the vision for 50 years ahead."

5. On the positive outlook of the UAE

"I am certain from what I have witnessed from my simple interaction with bright minds and hopeful optimistic faces that we are betting on the right people and the right generation for the future of the UAE."

6. A message to traveling Emiratis

"Anything positive you do will be remembered by the world as a good Emirati deed, but any negative step you make will reflect on your country. So you have a responsibility of protecting your country's image, especially when you are abroad."

7. On having the right mindset for the future

"If your point of view is positive, you will see the challenges in the future as opportunities."