Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi: A Visionary Leader Shaping Modern Sharjah

Eslam Mobarak
Published 2 weeks ago on 29 January, 2025-31 views
Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi and Visionary Leader Shaping Modern Sharjah

Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi stands as a transformative force in the Emirate of Sharjah, blending tradition and innovation. As the 11th ruler, he has championed numerous initiatives that enhance cultural heritage and economic development. His visionary leadership not only shapes Sharjah’s present but also paves the way for a vibrant and sustainable future, making him a pivotal figure in the United Arab Emirates.


Biography of Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi

Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi has been a pivotal figure in Sharjah’s transformation. He has devoted his life to the emirate’s cultural, economic, and social advancement, embodying a vision that balances heritage with modernity in the United Arab Emirates.

Early Life and Family Background

His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi was born into a notable family in Sharjah.

  • Birth Details: Born on July 2, 1939, in Sharjah.
  • Family: The mother is Sheikha Maryam, tied to a prominent lineage.

Siblings and Marriages

He has a large family with numerous siblings and marriages, contributing to his extensive lineage.

  • Siblings: Four brothers and two sisters.
  • Half-Siblings: Includes Sheikh Rashid, Sheikh Humaid, and several sisters.
  • First Marriage: Sheikha Moza, aunt’s granddaughter; two children together.
  • Children: Son Sheikh Mohammed passed away at age 24; daughter Sheikha Azza.
  • Second Marriage: Sheikha Jawaher, had three daughters and one son.
  • Son’s Legacy: Sheikh Khalid passed away at age 40.

Education and Early Career

A dedicated student, His Highness pursued education early on, excelling in various subjects.

  • Early Education: Studied the Quran under Sheikh Faris; attended local schools.
  • English Studies: Enrolled in an English private school for language acquisition.
  • University Education: Attended Cairo University, focusing on Agriculture.
  • Teaching Career: Taught English and mathematics at Sharjah Industrial School.

Political Ascendancy

His political career began with significant local governance roles and culminated in national leadership.

  • Municipality Chair: Led the Municipality before becoming the Ruler’s office head.
  • Ministerial Role: Appointed Minister of Education after the UAE’s establishment.
  • Ruler of Sharjah: Ascended to the throne on January 25, 1972, after a coup.
  • Supreme Council Membership: Became a member at the young age of 32.

Contributions to Sharjah and Beyond

His Highness has significantly impacted Sharjah’s development while promoting cultural exchange.

  • Cultural Development: Advanced cultural, economic, and social progress in Sharjah.
  • International Relations: Fostered cultural dialogue at local and international levels.

Read more: Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan: Transformative Leadership of the UAE’s Visionary President


Founder’s Biography: Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi

His Highness emphasizes the importance of education and cultural development in society.

His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi is a forward-thinking leader and the ruler of the Emirate of Sharjah, as well as a prominent member of the Federal Supreme Council of the United Arab Emirates. From a young age, he showed a strong dedication to education and a genuine passion for acquiring knowledge.

Educational Journey

At just nine years old, he began his educational journey at Eslah Al Qasimia School, later continuing his studies in Kuwait and Dubai. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Engineering from Cairo University, Egypt, in 1971. His academic pursuits continued with a PhD in history from the University of Exeter, UK, in 1985, followed by another doctorate in the political geography of the Gulf from Durham University, UK, in 1999.

Leadership Career

Sheikh Dr. Sultan Al Qasimi’s leadership career commenced in 1965 when he took charge of the Municipality of Sharjah. His graduation from Cairo University in 1971 marked the beginning of his influential role in managing the Ruler’s Office. After the United Arab Emirates was established on December 2, 1971, he became the UAE Minister of Education, ushering in a new era of educational reform in the nation.

Esteemed Educational Positions

Today, HH the Ruler of Sharjah holds several esteemed educational positions. In 1997, he was appointed President of both the University of Sharjah and the American University of Sharjah. The following year, he was recognized as a visiting professor at the University of Exeter, highlighting his dedication to higher education.

Vision for Independent Institutions

His ambitious vision includes transforming the various branches of the University of Sharjah into independent institutions. This initiative began with the establishment of the University of Khorfakkan in 2022, focusing on marine sciences. In 2023, he launched the University of Kalba, specializing in sports sciences.

Read more: Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan: Visionary Leadership Transforming the UAE’s Future


Future Educational Endeavors: Shaping Modern Sharjah

The University of Al Dhaid was founded in 2024, dedicated to agricultural sciences and veterinary medicine. These ambitious projects promise a bright future for Sharjah and the UAE, empowering the next generation of scholars and leaders. Proper education serves as a safeguard against destructive ideologies and misguided groups, while a stable family background plays a crucial role in nation-building.

Read more: Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan: Visionary Leadership and Legacy of Sheikh Zayed


A Visionary Leader: Vision of Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi

He promotes multiculturalism, tolerance, and dialogue among diverse communities worldwide.

As the visionary founder of the University of Sharjah, His Highness Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi envisioned a premier institution of higher education that would stand as a beacon of knowledge, innovation, and excellence in the region.

With a strong commitment to delivering quality education and promoting academic and research excellence, His Highness has steered the university toward continuous growth and development.

Under his guidance, the University of Sharjah has risen to prominence as a leading academic institution, dedicated to nurturing the next generation of leaders, innovators, and scholars who will shape the future of the UAE and beyond.

Read more: A Comprehensive Guide to the UAE Government Structure


Honorary Doctorates and Awards Received by Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi

Under his leadership, Sharjah has become a cultural hub in the region.

Here’s a table to display the honorary doctorate and awards obtained by Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi:

Honorary Doctorates of Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi Awards of Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi
Honorary Doctorate in Drama
In appreciation of His Highness’s contributions to theatrical writing and the advancement of the theatrical movement in the Arab world.Sudan University of Science and Technology
Nile Award for Arab Innovators
In recognition of His Highness’s role and notable Arab achievements in literature and the arts.
Arab Republic of Egypt
Honorary Doctorate
In appreciation of His Highness’s efforts in supporting culture.
Autonomous University of Madrid, Spain
Arab Excellence Award for Supporting Poetic Creativity
In appreciation of His Highness’s clear role and great support for poetry and poets in the Arab world.
Arab Republic of Egypt
Honorary Doctorate in Urban and Regional Development
In appreciation of His Highness’s effective role in the urban development of the Emirate of Sharjah.
The Italian Universities of Turin and Politecnico Dei
Landscape Magazine Award
In appreciation of His Highness’s contributions and urban project in developing the Emirate of Sharjah.
Honorary Doctorate in Humanities
In recognition of his generous contribution to education and culture at the national and international levels.
American University in Cairo
Fatima Bint Mubarak Award for Motherhood and Childhood
Honors His Highness as an exceptional figure locally and internationally in women’s and children’s issues.
Honorary Doctorate
In appreciation and honor of His Highness’s cultural and literary contributions.
University of Coimbra, Portugal
Simon Masters Award
In appreciation of His Highness’s unlimited intellectual giving, scientific career, and cultural efforts.
London, UK
Honorary Doctorate in Cultural Relations and Education
In appreciation of His Highness’s prominent role in supporting science and scientific research.
University of Calicut, India
Arab Excellence Award for Supporting Poetic Creativity
In appreciation of His Highness’s remarkable and continuous role in supporting poetry and poets in the Arab world.
Arab Republic of Egypt
Honorary Doctorate in Social Sciences
Given His Highness’s interest in arts and literature, and his support for the issues of the homeland.
Cairo University
Arab Thought Foundation Award “A Journey of Giving”
In appreciation of His Highness’s brilliant academic record and support for creativity.
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Honorary Doctorate in Arts, Letters, Philosophy and Humanities
In appreciation of His Highness’s role in supporting scientific research, spreading culture and art, and developing education locally and internationally.
University of Paris Diderot, France
Cultural Personality of the Year (Zahrat Al Madain Festival)
In appreciation of His Highness’s role in the cultural renaissance locally and regionally.
Jerusalem, Palestine

Read more: Significance of the UAE Federal Supreme Council in Governance


Crown Prince Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi

He has been the Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler since 1999.

His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi has held the position of Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah since 1999. He also serves as the chair of the Sharjah Executive Council and the Sharjah Police Science Academy. Previously, he chaired the board of the Sharjah Islamic Bank for nearly eighteen years.

As the head of the Executive Council, H.H. works to guide and motivate its members, ensuring alignment with the vision and goals set forth by the wise leadership and His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah. His focus is on enhancing the emirate’s competitiveness and providing a high quality of life for its citizens and residents, in line with sustainable development principles.

H.H. is also responsible for overseeing significant development projects within the emirate and directs government leaders in Sharjah to foster leadership, encourage excellence, and promote creativity and innovation across various initiatives and projects. These efforts aim to position Sharjah as a preferred hub for living, tourism, and investment.

Read more: Mechanisms Ensuring Accountability in the UAE Government


Founder Vision Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi

Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, a prominent intellectual and academic in our region, serves as a Member of the Supreme Council of the United Arab Emirates, the Ruler of Sharjah, and the founder of the American University of Sharjah (AUS). He envisioned a transformative future for AUS, which became a reality when the university welcomed its first students in 1997.

The remarkable growth of our university since its establishment can be attributed to our commitment to the founder’s vision, which is encapsulated in the following core values that shape our institutional identity:

  • The Importance of Science and Education: We believe that science and education must reclaim their essential role in advancing society and influencing the lives of future generations.
  • Purpose of Higher Education: Higher education should focus on developing the minds of our youth, equipping them to tackle personal and societal challenges through the scientific method.
  • Academic and Historical Achievements: Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi is a prominent academic and one of the foremost historians of the Gulf region. He holds two doctorates:
    • One in history from the University of Exeter.
    • Another in the political geography of the Gulf from the University of Durham.
  • Publications and Creative Works: Sheikh Dr. Sultan is a respected scholar who has published extensively on various aspects of Gulf history. He has also authored nearly a dozen acclaimed historical works as a playwright.
  • Recognition and Leadership: He has been awarded over a dozen honorary doctorates from prestigious global universities and received numerous accolades for his efforts in promoting cultural understanding and education.
  • Vision of Multiculturalism: His leadership exemplifies the importance of multiculturalism, tolerance, and the free exchange of ideas as essential for achieving a successful future.

Commitment to Community Engagement at AUS

  • Legacy at AUS: The diverse and vibrant campus of the American University of Sharjah (AUS) embodies His Highness’s visionary ideals.
  • Research Center: AUS is dedicated to being a research hub that addresses the pressing issues faced by society.
  • Autonomy: The university will maintain the independence and freedom necessary for it to thrive as a self-sufficient institution.
  • Community Engagement: AUS aims to be closely connected with the economic, cultural, and industrial sectors, fostering productive collaboration.

Read more: Management of Public Services in the UAE


Conclusion

Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi continues to exemplify visionary leadership as the 11th ruler of the Emirate of Sharjah. Under the guidance of Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al-Qasimi, Sharjah has thrived, transforming into a cultural hub in the United Arab Emirates. His commitment to education, heritage preservation, and sustainable development reflects the values instilled by his father, bin Rashid Al Qasimi.

As a Supreme Council Member and Crown Prince, he plays an essential role in shaping the future of not just Sharjah but the entire UAE. With initiatives that engage the community and empower the next generation, Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi’s leadership ensures that Sharjah remains a beacon of progress and innovation. As we look toward the future, his vision promises to strengthen the emirate’s position on the global stage.

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