The UAE Central Bank has released commemorative coins to honour two key founding leaders of the nation. These special editions celebrate the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum.
These commemorative coins highlight the leaders’ pivotal roles in establishing the UAE. In March 1971, Sheikh Zayed, then Ruler of Abu Dhabi, met Sheikh Rashid, then Ruler of Dubai. That historic meeting in the Al Khawaneej area laid the foundation for the new nation.
By December 1971, the UAE had formed, with Sheikh Zayed as the country’s first president and Sheikh Rashid as vice president. Their vision and leadership led to the unification of the Emirates.
To mark their contributions, the Central Bank has issued two commemorative coins—one gold and one silver. The gold coin weighs 40 grams and has a diameter of 40 millimeters. It features images of the two leaders on one side. On the reverse, the UAE national emblem appears, surrounded by “Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates” in both Arabic and English.
The silver coin is slightly larger, weighing 50 grams with a diameter of 50 millimeters. It also displays both founding leaders. Its reverse side carries the same national emblem and inscriptions, along with the words “Commemorative Coin” in Arabic.
The gold coin will only be sold at the Central Bank’s headquarters in Abu Dhabi. However, the silver coin is available for purchase through the bank’s website.
Central Bank Governor Khaled Mohamed Balama emphasized the symbolic value of the release. He said the commemorative coins represent loyalty to the founding leaders’ legacy.
“These coins reflect the unity and development values that built our nation,” Balama stated. “We aim to inspire future generations by preserving this national history.”
Earlier this year, the Central Bank also introduced a redesigned Dh100 note. It features the Umm Al Quwain National Fort and symbols of the country’s infrastructure, such as Etihad Rail and the Port of Fujairah.
These efforts, including the commemorative coins, reaffirm the UAE’s commitment to celebrating and preserving its national identity.
