UAE Commemorative Coins Honor Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid Legacy

UAE Commemorative Coins Celebrate the Legacy of Founding Fathers

In a historic tribute to the United Arab Emirates‘ founding visionaries, the Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) has launched exclusive UAE commemorative coins in gold and silver. The release is part of the ‘Zayed and Rashid’ campaign, an initiative designed to honor the exceptional contributions of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum—two legendary leaders who laid the foundations of the modern Emirati state.

This remarkable issuance reflects the Central Bank’s ongoing commitment to preserving the nation’s historical memory and promoting a deeper connection to its cultural and political roots. The coins are not only collectibles but serve as timeless symbols of national unity, leadership, and heritage.

These commemorative coins from the UAE celebrate two of the most respected figures in Gulf history, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s journey toward unity, modernization, and prosperity.

Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid: Founders of a Nation

The ‘Zayed and Rashid’ campaign pays homage to the visionary leadership of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the first President of the UAE, and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai. Their shared commitment to federal unity and social development helped shape the political and cultural fabric of the United Arab Emirates.

Together, these leaders brought together the seven emirates in 1971 under a unified national identity, leading the country through transformative growth in education, infrastructure, governance, and diplomacy. Their legacy continues to inspire generations of Emiratis and global leaders alike.

By immortalizing their legacy through these CBUAE commemorative coins, the nation reinforces its commitment to remembering the values upon which the Union was built: cooperation, tolerance, vision, and prosperity.

Exclusive Details of the CBUAE Gold Coin

The gold commemorative coin issued by the Central Bank is a luxurious collector’s item symbolizing both cultural pride and historical reverence. Weighing 40 grams and measuring 40 mm in diameter, the coin features a carefully crafted image of Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid on its front side.

The reverse of the coin includes the UAE national emblem, surrounded by the inscription “Central Bank of the United Arab Emirates” in both Arabic and English. This bilingual element reflects the nation’s inclusive ethos and global engagement.

What sets this CBUAE gold coin apart is its exclusivity. It is available only at the Central Bank headquarters in Abu Dhabi, making it a rare and prestigious addition for collectors, historians, and heritage institutions. The coin not only embodies artistic beauty but also holds historical weight.

Silver Commemorative Coin: Widely Accessible, Equally Prestigious

Alongside the gold version, the CBUAE has also released a silver commemorative coin to broaden public access to this national tribute. This version is slightly larger, weighing 50 grams and measuring 50 mm in diameter, while also showcasing Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid on its front.

The reverse side of the silver coin features the UAE national emblem, the Central Bank’s name in Arabic and English, and the label “Commemorative Coin” in Arabic. Its elegant, polished design reflects the timeless significance of the leaders it honors.

Unlike the gold coin, the silver coin is available for purchase online via the Central Bank’s official website, making it accessible to citizens, residents, and international collectors alike. This strategic accessibility ensures the coin reaches a broader audience and extends the campaign’s cultural impact.

Purpose Behind the Zayed and Rashid Campaign

The ‘Zayed and Rashid’ campaign is more than a commemorative initiative—it is a national movement designed to anchor Emirati values and historical awareness in the consciousness of future generations. Through public engagement, education, and symbolic tributes like these coins, the campaign promotes pride in the UAE’s foundational journey.

By issuing these commemorative coins, the Central Bank plays a vital role in preserving UAE history, nurturing a sense of patriotism, and encouraging young Emiratis to learn about the sacrifices and achievements of their nation’s architects.

The campaign aligns with national goals of unity, education, and cultural preservation and is a reflection of how the UAE integrates history into the present for a stronger future.

Khaled Mohamed Balama Emphasizes National Significance

During the official announcement, CBUAE Governor Khaled Mohamed Balama emphasized the patriotic significance of the commemorative coins. He said,

“We proudly announce the issuance of these commemorative coins, which embody the meanings of loyalty and belonging to the national legacy left by the founding leaders.”

He added,

“This issuance marks the ‘Zayed and Rashid’ campaign, aiming to solidify the values of unity and development upon which our nation was founded and to highlight inspiring milestones in their journeys.”

Governor Balama also highlighted the Central Bank’s role in preserving national heritage and ensuring it remains an active part of the national narrative. The issuance reflects the institution’s dedication to passing the values of leadership and unity to upcoming generations.

Commemorative Coins as Educational and Cultural Tools

These UAE commemorative coins are not merely currency—they are educational instruments and cultural artifacts. They offer a unique way to teach future generations about Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid’s vision and the foundation of the United Arab Emirates.

Educational institutions are already integrating these coins into their curriculum. Schools across the country are using them to explore UAE history, heritage, and leadership values, while museums are preparing exhibits showcasing the coins and their historical relevance.

The CBUAE’s initiative transforms currency into a medium of national storytelling, reinforcing identity and cultural pride across educational, artistic, and institutional domains.

Widespread Public Interest and Collector Demand

The public response to the launch of these UAE heritage coins has been overwhelmingly positive. Collectors, educators, students, and patriotic citizens have shown immense interest in both versions, recognizing their artistic value and cultural depth.

The gold coin, due to its exclusivity, has become a must-have for elite collectors and institutions, while the silver coin’s online availability has ensured widespread engagement from the public.

Experts anticipate that the CBUAE commemorative coins will gain long-term collectible value due to their limited availability, unique designs, and the significant historical figures they represent.

Cultural Significance of Currency in National Identity

Currency often serves as a powerful reflection of a nation’s values, history, and achievements. By releasing these UAE gold and silver coins, the Central Bank highlights how money can go beyond economics to become a tool of cultural communication and historical education.

These coins are miniature monuments—objects of value that carry with them the weight of a shared national story. They reflect not only the faces of Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid but also the journey of the UAE itself.

In an age of digital transactions, such tangible and well-designed physical currency continues to play a significant role in nation-building, heritage preservation, and collective memory.

Inspiring Future Generations and Potential for Future Releases

This successful commemorative coin release may serve as a model for future heritage initiatives. As the UAE approaches milestones like its 55th Union Anniversary, Mars exploration progress, and international cultural achievements, similar national commemorative coins could celebrate these accomplishments.

Future coin campaigns could honor key scientific, cultural, and leadership events, further enriching the UAE’s identity and giving the world a glimpse into its extraordinary evolution. By intertwining tradition with innovation, the CBUAE can ensure its currency continues to inspire for decades to come.