A Forward-Looking Vision for a Prosperous Future
About His Highness Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan
His Highness Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan was born in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi in 1968. He is one of the sons of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Founder of the United Arab Emirates.
His Highness has held several senior positions in the UAE, most notably serving as Chairman of the Private Department of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan between 1996 and 2004. In 2013, he was appointed Deputy National Security Advisor with the rank of Minister, followed by his appointment as National Security Advisor in 2016. In 2023, an Emiri Decree was issued by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, appointing His Highness Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed as Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi.
Economic Contributions
In the economic sphere, His Highness Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan has played a central role in advancing Abu Dhabi’s economic growth and consolidating its position as a leading global center across key sectors such as finance, business, advanced technology, and artificial intelligence.
His Highness chairs several of the emirate’s foremost economic institutions, including the Board of Directors of International Holding Company (IHC) since April 2020. He also chairs other major entities such as G42 — a leading group in artificial intelligence and cloud computing, First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), and MGX — a leading investment company in artificial intelligence and advanced technology.
Contributions to Sports
In the field of sports, His Highness Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan is recognized as the founder and key promoter of several sports disciplines in the UAE, most notably jiu-jitsu — a sport he mastered while studying in California, USA. Upon his return to the UAE in 1995, His Highness worked to popularize jiu-jitsu nationwide, recognizing its profound benefits for both physical and mental well-being.
Timeline
2024
The Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Technology Council announced the establishment of MGX Technology Investment Company, chaired by His Highness Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed.
2024
His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, awarded His Highness Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed the Order of the Union in recognition of his efforts in successfully organizing the COP28 climate conference hosted by the UAE.
2024
2023
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1968
A Champion of Sports
In line with the vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, His Highness Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed stands as one of the foremost supporters of cycling in the UAE.
His Highness Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed is considered the founder of jiu-jitsu in the UAE, having played a pivotal role in its spread and development. His Highness's interest in the sport began during his studies in the United States, where he immersed himself in its arts and became one of the first black belt holders in the Arab world.
Chess is one of His Highness Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed's main intellectual interests, reflecting his deep passion for planning and strategic thinking.
His Highness Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed is an equestrian enthusiast, a sport that combines authentic Arab heritage with discipline and endurance.
