His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has described Dubai as “a home for the world, for people and for life” in a message to the city’s residents. He stressed that a city’s true success is measured not only by its buildings and infrastructure, but also by the values and conduct of its community.

The message appears in his new book, “Letters”, a collection of 26 letters addressed to his family, his team, UAE citizens and readers around the world. The book reflects the experiences and lessons Sheikh Mohammed has gained over nearly six decades of public service. The Arabic edition was released in the UAE on October 1, while the English edition will be published on October 15.

Sheikh Mohammed said Dubai had grown from humble beginnings into “a beautiful city and a harmonious society”, but must remember that the journey ahead remains long and there is always more to learn. He expressed hope that everyone living in Dubai would consider the city their home.

He also outlined seven principles for strengthening Dubai’s community: responsibility, respect for others, the pursuit of excellence and quality, humility, optimism, doing good and loyalty to the nation.

The Ruler of Dubai said building a community was not solely the government’s responsibility, adding that employees, managers, parents, teachers, doctors, businesspeople and other members of society all had a role to play. He also stressed that respect for the religion, culture, time, feelings, rights and dignity of others formed the foundations of a civilised society.

Sheikh Mohammed concluded that the true achievement was not building cities, but building a society united by shared values, principles and purpose. He said Dubai should continue to offer a human experience capable of inspiring other parts of the world.