Sheikh Zayed's accession on 6th August 1966 marked a defining milestone in the nation's history, setting the UAE on a path of sustainable development, unity and prosperity. In statements issued on the occasion, Their Highnesses affirmed that Sheikh Zayed's accession on 6th August 1966 marked a defining milestone in the nation's history, setting the UAE on a path of sustainable development, unity and prosperity. President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan said in a post on X: "Today marks the 60th anniversary of the accession of the UAE's Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed, as Ruler of Abu Dhabi on 6 August 1966. Sheikh Zayed did both. Sheikh Zayed will forever remain immortal in the memory of the nation and in the hearts of its people," he added.