Etihad Aviation Group (EAG) has now outlined a year-long program to mark 2018 as the Year of Zayed. The UAE President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan declared 2018 the Year of Zayed, a nationwide initiative, which will highlight the UAE founding father’s unparalleled role in establishing the UAE Federation, and his local, regional and international achievements as well as his values and principles.
To mark the event, Etihad created a short film ‘Running Boy’ to honor Sheikh Zayed’s legacy of human development in the UAE. The film follows a boy who runs through surroundings, which change through the years in celebration of the 46 years that have passed since the inception of the UAE.
Etihad’s headquarters in Abu Dhabi inaugurated the activities by holding a flag-raising ceremony attended by its employees. Etihad will also pay tribute to Sheikh Zayed’s humanitarian spirit by planning initiatives focused on supporting societies and urban developments in many countries.
Khaled Al Mehairbi, Senior Vice President Abu Dhabi Airport, and General Manager of Etihad Airport Ground Services, who also serves as Chairman of Etihad Airways’ Sports and Social Committee, and CSR strategy said, “We are tremendously proud of the rapid growth of Abu Dhabi and the union. All the people of the UAE are, and will always remain the most important element of our nation’s development. This was our father Sheikh Zayed’s main objective and vision. This year is a momentous one as we proudly honor his achievements and celebrate his legacy in Abu Dhabi and around the world.”
In support of the national initiative, and to reaffirm its commitment to the UAE, Etihad’s strategy is based on the government’s four ‘Year of Zayed’ pillars of wisdom, respect, sustainability and human development.
The EAG had just concluded its observation of the UAE’s Year of Giving. In support of the initiative, EAG’s strategy last year was based on the government’s three ‘Year of Giving’ pillars comprising corporate social responsibility, volunteering and serving the nation.
“We are proud that the EAG family worldwide so generously supported the many initiatives throughout the year. Volunteering and giving back to our community, as well as to the communities in which we operate, is an important part of the Etihad culture,” commented EAG Interim Chief Executive Officer Ray Gammell.
The Year of Giving drive was visible on Etihad’s flagship aircraft, the Airbus A380, with all four engines of the superjumbo displaying the official Year of Giving logo to promote the national initiative overseas in Etihad’s A380 destinations.
One dirham from every ticket booked was donated to charity and other initiatives around the world.
