Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the first President of the United Arab Emirates, was a revered leader in the Middle East. He was known for his progressive leadership and close relationships with many nations. One of the most interesting facts about Sheikh Zayed is his marriage to a Pakistani woman.
Sheikh Zayed’s Pakistani Wife
Sheikh Zayed married his second wife, Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Al Ketbi, in 1971 in Abu Dhabi. Sheikha Fatima was born in Pakistan in 1948 and was the daughter of Sheikh Mubarak bin Mohammed Al Ketbi. Sheikha Fatima was educated at the Al Ain Women’s College in the United Arab Emirates and holds a degree in social science.
A Look at Their Marriage
Sheikh Zayed and Sheikha Fatima had two children together, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed and Sheikha Salama. Sheikh Zayed and Sheikha Fatima were known to have a very close and loving relationship. Sheikha Fatima was known for her philanthropic work and support for the arts, as well as for her tireless efforts to improve the lives of women in the United Arab Emirates. Sheikh Zayed and Sheikha Fatima were married for over 30 years until Sheikh Zayed’s death in 2004.
Sheikh Zayed and Sheikha Fatima’s marriage was a unique union that broke cultural and religious barriers. Their marriage was a testament to the progressive leadership of Sheikh Zayed and helped shape the United Arab Emirates into what it is today.