The Zayed National Museum tells the story of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan (1918–2004), his unification of the United Arab Emirates, the long history of the region and its cultural connections across the world. . Sheikh Zayed nourished tradition and cared for his nation and its future and it is entirely appropriate that a national museum be founded in his memory. His political achievements were immense; he was the ruler of Abu Dhabi from 1966 to 2004 and President of the UAE from 1971 to 2004, guiding the Emirates to unification and leading the social and cultural development of the country. He is widely regarded as the ‘Father of the Nation’. Central to the stories told in the Museum are Sheikh Zayed’s strongly held values. These encompassed a passionate belief in education, conservation, environmental sustainability, heritage and culture, all underpinned by his humanitarianism and strong faith. The Zayed National Museum has been founded in the spirit of Sheikh Zayed’s work on behalf of Emiratis and people everywhere.